If you’ve ever heard Toronto referred to as “the Six” or “the 6ix,” you might have wondered where this nickname comes from. Is it a reference to a famous rapper? A sports team? Or does it have deeper roots in the city’s history?
The truth is, Toronto’s nickname is a blend of geography, culture, and music—spearheaded by none other than its most famous ambassador, Drake. But there’s much more to the story than just a catchy phrase. In this deep dive, we’ll explore the origins of “the Six,” its cultural significance, and how it became a symbol of Toronto’s identity.
Chapter 1: The Origins of “The Six” – A Tale of Two Theories
Before Drake popularized the term, Toronto had already been unofficially called “the Six” for years. The nickname has two primary explanations—one rooted in geography, the other in hip-hop culture.
Theory 1: The Six Boroughs (Or Was It Just Six?)
One of the most common explanations is that “the Six” refers to the six municipalities that made up Metro Toronto before amalgamation in 1998. These were:
- Toronto (Old Toronto)
- North York
- Scarborough
- Etobicoke
- York
- East York
When these six areas merged into one megacity, some locals began referring to Toronto as “the Six” as a nod to its combined identity.
However, there’s a catch—many argue that the six-borough theory is a bit of a stretch. After all, the nickname didn’t gain mainstream traction until decades later. So, while the municipal merger might have planted the seed, it wasn’t the sole reason “the Six” stuck.
Theory 2: The 416 and 647 Area Codes
Another popular theory ties the nickname to Toronto’s area codes. The original area code for Toronto was 416, and when the city needed more phone numbers, 647 was introduced.
If you break it down:
- 4 + 1 + 6 = 11 (which doesn’t fit)
- But 416 and 647 both contain a 6 as their middle digit.
Drake himself has hinted at this connection, particularly in his 2016 album Views, where Toronto’s skyline is featured prominently, and the number 6 appears in various visuals.
So, is “the Six” about the boroughs, the area codes, or both? The answer is likely a mix—a cultural shorthand that took on a life of its own.
Chapter 2: Drake and the Rise of “The 6ix”
While the term “the Six” existed in local slang, it was Drake who turned it into a global phenomenon. The Toronto-born rapper has repeatedly referenced the city in his music, but his adoption of “the 6ix” (a stylized version of “the Six”) gave the nickname its biggest boost.
How Drake Made “The 6ix” Famous
- 2014: Drake started using “the 6” in interviews and social media.
- 2015: He released “6 God” and “6 Man,” further embedding the term in hip-hop culture.
- 2016: His album Views (originally titled Views from the 6) became a massive hit, with the CN Tower—a Toronto landmark—featured on the cover.
- 2019: He launched OVO Sound Radio and continued to rep “the 6ix” in songs like “Omertà” (“I’m a product of the 6, I’m a product of my city”).
Drake didn’t just popularize the name—he made it a brand. From his October’s Very Own (OVO) clothing line to his annual OVO Fest, he turned Toronto into a cultural hub for music, fashion, and sports.
Why Did “The 6ix” Stick?
- Pride: Toronto had long been overshadowed by U.S. cities like New York and L.A. Drake’s global success gave the city a new sense of pride.
- Identity: The nickname became a unifying symbol—whether you were from Scarborough, Etobicoke, or downtown, you were part of “the 6.”
- Marketing: Businesses, sports teams (like the Raptors), and even the city itself embraced the term for tourism and branding.
Chapter 3: The Cultural Impact of “The Six”
Beyond music, “the Six” has influenced Toronto’s identity in sports, business, and even politics.
Sports: The Toronto Raptors and “We the North”
The Toronto Raptors (who won the NBA Championship in 2019) have embraced the city’s nickname. Drake, as the team’s “global ambassador,” frequently references “the 6” during games. The team’s slogan, “We the North,” also reinforces Toronto’s unique identity.
Business and Tourism
- Restaurants, bars, and clothing brands use “the 6ix” in their names.
- Tourism campaigns highlight Toronto as “the Six” to attract visitors.
- The term has even appeared in official city promotions.
Controversies and Criticisms
Not everyone loves the nickname. Some argue:
- It oversimplifies Toronto’s diverse neighborhoods.
- It’s too tied to Drake, ignoring other cultural influences.
- It feels commercialized, losing its original grassroots meaning.
Still, for many, “the Six” remains a point of pride.
Chapter 4: Is “The Six” Here to Stay?
Nicknames come and go, but “the Six” has shown remarkable staying power. Here’s why:
- Global Recognition: Thanks to Drake, even people who’ve never been to Toronto know the term.
- Cultural Legacy: It’s embedded in music, sports, and local pride.
- Evolution: Like “The Big Apple” for New York, it may stick for decades.
What’s Next for the Nickname?
- Will future artists redefine Toronto’s identity?
- Could another nickname emerge?
- Or will “the 6ix” remain Toronto’s signature moniker?
Only time will tell, but for now, “the Six” is more than just a nickname—it’s a symbol of Toronto’s rise as a global city.
Final Thoughts: Why “The Six” Matters
Toronto’s nickname isn’t just about a number—it’s about community, pride, and cultural influence. Whether you prefer “the Six,” “the 6ix,” or just “T.O.,” the term reflects a city that’s constantly evolving while staying true to its roots.
So next time you hear someone say they’re from “the Six,” you’ll know the rich history behind those two simple digits.
What do you think? Does “the Six” perfectly capture Toronto’s vibe, or should the city embrace a different nickname? Let us know in the comments!
Bonus: Fun Facts About “The Six”
- The 6ixBuzz Instagram page (a popular Toronto meme account) has over 1 million followers.
- Drake’s OVO owl logo is now synonymous with Toronto’s hip-hop scene.
- The term has inspired merch, tattoos, and even street art across the city.
Whether you love it or hate it, “the Six” is here to stay—at least for now. 🚀
