Drake's Amazon Prime Deals: Should Zambians Really Care?

Amazon is pushing Drake's merchandise hard this Prime Day, and the whole world is expected to open their wallets. But before you rush to spend your hard-earned kwacha on a Canadian rapper's branded pillow, let us ask you something. When was the last time you bought merch from a Zambian artist?

Look, we get it. Drake is a global superstar, and his Amazon collection has some flashy items on sale for Early Prime Day. From hoodies to gear inspired by his $200 million private jet, Air Drake, he's got the whole package ready for international consumers. But while most of us will never step foot on Air Drake, Amazon wants you to pretend you can by buying into the fantasy.

Here is the thing, Zed Nation. Every dollar we send to foreign megastars is a dollar that never reaches our own creative industry. Our designers, our musicians, our entrepreneurs are out here grinding, and they need your support far more than a man who flies around in a plane worth more than our entire national budget.

Still, we know some of you will look. So here is what Drake is selling, and what you should think about before you click that buy button.

The Air Drake Collection

Drake teamed up with Amazon to push a line inspired by his private jet. You will not be flying to London, Paris, or Toronto anytime soon on a PJ, but you can apparently pretend.

The Air Drake Eye Mask is 100% silk and features a print inspired by Virgil Abloh's sky-blue and white cloud camouflage design from Drake's actual jet. It keeps the light out, sure. But so does a locally made chitenge eye mask from our own markets, and that actually supports a Zambian family.

Then there is the Air Drake Mulberry Silk Pillowcase. It comes as a set of two with the Air Drake logo and claims to prevent hair breakage and frizz while offering natural temperature regulation. Quality silk, no doubt. But ask yourself, does it need a foreign rapper's name on it to work?

The Air Drake Socks feature an embroidered official logo and heavy duty construction. They are subtle, and they will apparently last for years. Our local tailors make socks that last just as long, without the markup for a celebrity brand.

And for lounging around, there is the Air Drake Silk Robe. Whether you are doing your skincare routine or making breakfast, this silky smooth robe is meant to make you feel luxurious. Luxury is great. But true luxury is investing in our own economy.

The Drake Body Pillow and Face Mask

Drake may only love his bed and his mama, but now you can apparently cozy up with Drizzy every night. The Drake Body Pillow is over 4 ft long and features an image of Drake ready for bed in his silk bonnet. It is marketed as a unique gift for superfans, whether they put it on display or use it as a cuddle buddy.

We will let you make up your own mind about that one.

Then there is the Drake Face Mask. This is a full coverage mask with a life-size print of Drake's face. It lets you see the world through Drake's eyes, although you are probably going to get some pretty confused looks from people on the street. Guaranteed to create hilarious situations, apparently. Also guaranteed to make you look like you have forgotten who you are.

The Hoodies, Tees and Bonnets

For the real fans, the Drake For All The Dogs Hoodie comes in a bold electric blue colorway with vibrant screen-printed graphics including two angels, a puff-printed horse, the number