Introduction: Why Drake’s Face Tattoo Is More Than Just Ink
When Drake debuted his second-ever face tattoo in late 2023—a single word, MISKEEN, etched above his right eyebrow—fans were both intrigued and confused. What does miskeen mean? Why would an international megastar choose a word tied so specifically to Toronto’s Somali-Canadian slang?
This isn’t just another celebrity tattoo. It’s a cultural moment—a window into how hip hop, identity, and Canadian multiculturalism intersect. Let’s break it down.
What Is Drake’s Face Tattoo?
The Tattoo: “MISKEEN”
The word appears in all capital letters just above his right brow. Unlike his first face tattoo (“SG” under his left eye, honoring his mother Sandra Gale), this one is less about family and more about identity—social, cultural, and linguistic.
Meaning of “Miskeen”
In classical Arabic, “miskeen” (مِسْكِين) means poor, needy, or helpless. But in Toronto’s Somali-Canadian community, miskeen has evolved into slang meaning someone who is:
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Naïve
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Innocent
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Not built for the streets
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Or even a bit pathetic, in a joking way.
So, depending on your cultural lens, Drake’s tattoo could say:
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“I’m soft, and I own it.”
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“I represent Toronto’s diverse culture.”
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“You called me miskeen—so I made it permanent.”
Why Did Drake Choose “Miskeen”?
A Nod to Toronto’s Somali Community
Drake has long been proud of his Toronto roots, especially the immigrant communities that shaped the city. The Somali population in Toronto is one of the largest in North America, and “miskeen” is a term heard often in these circles.
By choosing this word, Drake is likely honoring the streets he came from and the people he grew up around, especially in neighborhoods like Rexdale, Scarborough, and Etobicoke—areas where Somali slang influences local youth culture.
“In Toronto, ‘miskeen’ doesn’t always mean poor—it can mean someone soft, like a nerd, or someone who’s not in the game,” said Ahmed A., a Somali-Canadian linguistics student at the University of Toronto.
Reclaiming the Insult?
Some see this tattoo as Drake reclaiming an insult. Critics have often mocked him for being too “soft” or “emotional” in the hypermasculine world of hip-hop. In response, he might be wearing miskeen like a badge of honor.
It’s not the first time Drake has turned criticism into branding. From the memes mocking his singing to jokes about his emotional lyrics—he’s always owned it.
Drake’s Face Tattoo History
Before “Miskeen,” Drake had only one facial tattoo:
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“SG” under his left eye: a tribute to his mother, Sandra Gale, inked in 2022.
But the rest of his body is covered in meaningful art:
| Tattoo | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Aaliyah portrait | Tribute to the late R&B singer |
| Denzel Washington (Mo’ Better Blues look) | Respect for Black cinematic legacy |
| Sade portraits | Multiple tattoos of the iconic singer |
| Kevin Durant & Stephen Curry | Homage to his favorite NBA players |
| “Unruly” | For Popcaan and Jamaican culture |
The “Miskeen” tattoo adds a uniquely Toronto-flavored layer to this storytelling.
Canadian Cultural Reactions
Media Coverage
Canadian outlets like Billboard Canada, CBC, and The Star covered the tattoo with curiosity. Some praised it as a cultural shoutout. Others criticized Drake for flirting with cultural appropriation.
Voices from the Community
Among Somali-Canadian youth, the response has been mixed.
Positive reactions:
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“It’s cool to see our slang go global.”
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“Drake putting us on the map again.”
Criticism:
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“He’s not Somali. It feels performative.”
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“Now everyone’s gonna use the word wrong.”
Cultural Context: The Somali-Canadian Meaning of “Miskeen”
The Somali diaspora in Toronto uses “miskeen” often. It can mean:
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Someone who’s too soft for the hood
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Someone innocent or naive
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Someone who doesn’t fight back
In Somali comedy skits, it’s often the punchline. But it can also carry respectful irony—someone avoiding trouble.
“When we call someone miskeen, it’s half an insult, half love,” explained Toronto poet Fartun Osman. “It’s like calling someone a puppy. You’re not saying they’re useless—you’re saying they’re gentle.”
Should You Get a Face Tattoo Like Drake?
Let’s Talk Legality and Stigma
In Canada, face tattoos are legal, but they’re not without consequences:
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Employment bias: Employers may judge candidates harshly.
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Social perception: Older generations associate face tattoos with gangs or criminal activity.
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Removal cost: Facial tattoo removal is painful, expensive, and often leaves scarring.
A 2018 Stats Canada study revealed that:
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38% of employers said tattoos influenced hiring decisions.
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Face tattoos were the most stigmatized.
Tips Before You Get One
Thinking about a face tattoo?
✅ Ask yourself:
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Why this word/symbol?
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Will it affect your career or travel?
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Have I tried this design with temporary ink first?
✅ Consult professionals. At Chameleon Studio, we advise clients on everything from placement visibility to aftercare routines.
Canadian Perspective: Why This Tattoo Matters Locally
Drake’s choice wasn’t random. “Miskeen” is a code word that only makes full sense in Toronto’s urban fabric.
Linguistic Studies
A 2022 University of Toronto study on multilingual slang in youth culture found:
“Terms like ‘miskeen’ showcase how Arabic, Somali, and Caribbean words have fused into Toronto’s local dialect, shaping a unique identity among second-generation immigrants.”
This isn’t just about Drake. It’s about how immigrant languages influence Canadian English.
A Cultural Time Capsule
20 years from now, “miskeen” may sound dated. But as a tattoo, it preserves a moment in Toronto slang, a chapter of hip hop history, and a subtle form of urban poetry.
FAQ – Face Tattoo & Drake Edition
❓ What does “miskeen” mean in Drake’s tattoo?
In Arabic: poor or needy.
In Toronto slang: innocent, naive, or not built for street life.
❓ How many face tattoos does Drake have?
Two:
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“SG” (under left eye – for his mom)
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“Miskeen” (above right eyebrow)
❓ Why is “miskeen” controversial?
Some believe Drake is appropriating Somali culture. Others see it as appreciation. The word has different meanings based on cultural background.
❓ Where can I get a similar tattoo?
Visit Chameleon Studio, Mississauga—experts in facial tattoo design with consultations focused on cultural context, future impact, and skin compatibility.
Personal Reflection
As a content writer based in Toronto, I’ve heard “miskeen” a hundred different ways—from high school cafeterias to downtown art shows. It’s a word that belongs to the streets, not textbooks. Seeing it on Drake’s face feels both local and global—like a love letter to a city too diverse for a single language.
Final Thoughts
Drake’s “Miskeen” tattoo isn’t just body art—it’s language, culture, and identity inked permanently on his face. Whether it’s appreciation, self-deprecation, or brand-building, it’s a powerful example of how local slang can go global.
And for Canadians? It’s another reminder that our stories—especially the immigrant ones—matter in the world stage of pop culture.
Call to Action
Thinking of turning your story into ink? Want a design with meaning like Drake’s “miskeen”?
📍 Visit us at Chameleon Studio, 248 Queen St S, Mississauga, ON
📞 Call us at +1 647-328-8992
🔗 Book a free consultation now
🔗 Explore all tattoo styles we offer
Got a question about Drake face tattoos in Canada? Comment below or DM us. Let’s talk ink!