Unmasking The Mystery: 7 Shocking Facts About The 'What Did I Miss?' Sample That Fooled Everyone

The debate over the cryptic vocal sample in Drake's track "What Did I Miss?" has finally been settled, revealing a surprising international collaboration that few fans predicted. As of this updated piece in December 2025, the mystery voice that sparked intense online speculation—with many convinced it was a subtle dig or feature from The Weeknd—has been officially unmasked, pointing to a talented German R&B artist. This deep dive uncovers the true source, the artist's full biography, and the intricate production details that made this one of the most talked-about samples of the year. The track, which served as a major single from Drake’s latest project, immediately captivated listeners with its melancholic, chopped-up vocal loop that runs throughout the beat. The heavenly, soulful sound was so ambiguous that it fueled a massive controversy, turning a simple song component into a viral music mystery. We break down the revelation and the biographical details of the artist who is now forever linked to the OVO sound.

The Artist Behind the Mystery Vocal: Evîn Kücükali

The elusive vocal chop that defines the atmosphere of "What Did I Miss?" belongs to the rising German singer, songwriter, and producer Evîn Kücükali. After weeks of online speculation, Evîn herself confirmed her involvement, bringing an end to the intense fan theories. Her inclusion is a classic example of Drake and his team spotlighting underground talent and introducing them to a global audience through a subtle yet central feature. Here is a complete biographical profile of the artist whose sound is now etched into hip-hop history:

• Full Name: Evin Kücükali
• Stage Name: EVÎN
• Born: Circa 1995
• Birthplace: Bochum, Germany
• Nationality: German
• Ethnicity/Roots: Laz and Kurdish heritage, which influences her music.
• Primary Roles: Singer, Songwriter, and Producer.
• Musical Style: A distinctive blend of R&B, Soul, and melancholic vibes, often infused with her oriental roots.
• Career Start: Began independently releasing music around 2020.
• Key Collaborators: Longtime partners Karl Kindermann and Jako.
• Notable Feature: Vocal chop/background vocals on Drake's single "What Did I Miss?" (2025).

The "What Did I Miss?" Sample: Unmasking the True Source

The confusion surrounding the "What Did I Miss?" sample was a masterclass in music production and misdirection. The vocal chop, which is heavily processed and layered, was deliberately ambiguous, leading to two major theories before the truth came out.

The Weeknd vs. Majid Jordan Speculation

Upon the track’s release, the most dominant theory was that the vocal belonged to The Weeknd (Abel Tesfaye). This belief was fueled by the long, complex history and rivalry between the two Canadian superstars. Fans argued the high-pitched, heavenly quality of the vocals sounded exactly like The Weeknd’s early, signature style, suggesting a subtle or uncredited feature. The idea that Drake would use a sample of his long-time frenemy created significant buzz and a narrative around their ongoing relationship. The second popular theory suggested the voice belonged to Majid Jordan, the OVO-signed duo known for their atmospheric, R&B-infused vocals, which often feature heavily in Drake’s moodier tracks. This theory was more plausible given their close working relationship, but it still turned out to be incorrect.

The Evîn Kücükali Confirmation

The actual source was confirmed to be a vocal chop from Evîn Kücükali, though the specific original track remains a point of interest for deep-cut music lovers. The producer of the track, O Lil Angel, took the German artist's soulful delivery and manipulated it—chopping, pitching, and adding effects—until it became the ethereal, almost unrecognizable sound heard in the final song. This technique of using a heavily processed vocal from an obscure artist is a signature move in modern hip-hop production, creating a unique sound that is nearly impossible to trace without official credits. Evîn's public confirmation via her social media channels solidified the truth, shifting the narrative from a Weeknd diss to a global co-sign.

The Deeper Meaning of Drake's "What Did I Miss?"

Beyond the sample controversy, "What Did I Miss?" stands as a powerful track in Drake's discography, exploring themes of loyalty, betrayal, and self-reflection. The song was released as the lead single from his album *Iceman*, and its lyrics directly address the aftermath of public feuds and the shock of realizing who is truly on your side.

Lyrical Themes of Betrayal and Reflection

The song's title itself, "What Did I Miss?", sets a tone of surprise and slight indignation, as if Drake is waking up to a new reality after a period of intense focus or distraction. The lyrics are a powerful exploration of backstabbers and fake friends, capturing his feelings of shock and disillusionment following a highly publicized beef. Key lines focus on:

• Loyalty Tests: Questioning the allegiance of those around him during a vulnerable time.
• Public Perception: Reflecting on how the media and public view his actions and relationships.
• Unbothered Confidence: Despite the drama, Drake maintains his position of power and success, asserting that he is still moving forward.

The Production and Soundscape

The track's production, handled by O Lil Angel, is crucial to its melancholic and reflective mood. The beat is built around the sampled Evîn Kücükali vocal chop, which provides a haunting, emotional backdrop. This atmospheric, soulful production contrasts with Drake's more aggressive lyrical content, creating a complex, textured listening experience. The beat switch in the song is also a notable feature, adding a dynamic shift that keeps the listener engaged and mirrors the shifting emotional landscape of the lyrics.

Topical Authority and Relevance

The entire saga—from the initial Weeknd speculation to the Evîn Kücükali revelation—highlights several key trends in modern music:

1. The Power of the Co-Sign: Drake's decision to use an Evîn Kücükali vocal instantly propelled the German artist into the global spotlight, demonstrating the immense power of a major artist's co-sign.
2. The Art of Vocal Manipulation: The sample's success proves that a highly manipulated vocal chop can be more enigmatic and buzzworthy than a straightforward feature, creating a viral mystery that drives engagement.
3. The Ongoing Beef Narrative: The fact that the most popular theory involved The Weeknd shows how deeply fans are invested in the personal and professional narratives of major artists, often interpreting musical choices through the lens of existing rivalries.

"What Did I Miss?" is more than just a song; it's a cultural moment defined by a single, mysterious sound. The true source—Evîn Kücükali—is a testament to the global reach of OVO and the complex, layered artistry of modern hip-hop production, proving that even the most subtle element can become the biggest story.