Drake Wants "YOLO" Profits, Tells Macy's, Walgreens to Pay Him Royalties

Rapper popularized acronym in his 2011 hit "The Motto," and now he wants to be compensated for its use elsewhere

By Rebecca Macatee Dec 26, 2012 5:20 PMTags
DrakeMichael Kovac/Getty Images, Instagram

"YOLO" isn't just an overused phrase or regrettable tattoo choice—this omnipresent acronym is quite the moneymaker.

Drake, who is often credited with popularizing the shortened version of "You only live once," hinted Tuesday that he wants a cut of these profits.

The 26-year-old rapper posted an Instagram shot of several "YOLO" hats for sale, writing, "Walgreens...you gotta either chill or cut the cheque."

He also posted an Instagram shot of "YOLO" on a Charlie Brown T-shirt, quipping, "Macy's...same goes for you."

Drake popularized "YOLO" in his 2011 song "The Motto," which featured Lil Wayne. But he was reportedly not, according to KnowYourMeme.com, the first person to utilize the acronym.

If Drake gets a cut of "YOLO" profits, Justin Bieber better be making bank off of "swaggy."

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