After hearing the final Boi-1da version, Jay-Z actually wanted the song for his own album, Magna Carta Holy Grail , but eventually gave it back to Drake to close out Nothing Was the Same .

The instrumental includes a re-recorded vocal interpolation of Wu-Tang Clan’s "C.R.E.A.M." (Cash Rules Everything Around Me), which is reportedly voiced by Timbaland . Origins and History

The beat is famous for its ethereal, "underwater" texture—a signature of the OVO sound during that era.

The instrumental for "Pound Cake," the outro to Drake’s 2013 album Nothing Was the Same , is celebrated as one of the most iconic "luxury rap" beats in modern hip-hop history. Produced primarily by and Jordan Evans , with additional work by Matthew Burnett , the track serves as a masterclass in atmospheric, sample-heavy production. Production & Sound Design

Drake felt the original beat wasn't the right fit and asked Boi-1da to create a new one around Jay-Z’s vocals.

Jay-Z initially sent Drake two a cappella verses for a different beat produced by Noah "40" Shebib .