Drake delivered a pre-recorded speech at the 2026 Juno Awards held in Hamilton, Ontario, honoring fellow artist Nelly Furtado. This marks a significant moment as Drake has not attended the Junos in person since 2011, following a notable snub where his album Take Care was overlooked in favor of Shad, who won multiple awards that year.
During his speech, Drake praised Furtado’s influence on his career, stating, “Being a woman in the music industry in any era is something that I have to tip my hat to.” He also referenced the 2011 awards, highlighting the six awards he felt were unjustly awarded to Shad while his own work was ignored.
The 2026 Juno Awards featured a total of 40 awards handed out, with Drake’s speech prompting mixed reactions online. Notably, Tate McRae won four awards, including artist and single of the year, while bbno$ received the fan choice award. The Beaches continued their success by winning group of the year for the third consecutive year.
Drake has not submitted any of his music to the Junos for consideration since the 2011 incident, which has led to ongoing discussions about his relationship with the awards. He announced that his upcoming studio album will be titled Iceman, although a release date has yet to be confirmed.
Joni Mitchell was also honored at the event, receiving the Lifetime Achievement Award, a recognition that many believe is long overdue. Drake’s comments about the Junos and his past experiences reflect a broader conversation about recognition in the music industry.
As the ceremony unfolded, the atmosphere was charged with nostalgia and reflection, particularly for artists like Drake who have had a complex history with the awards. His remarks about the 2011 snub and the subsequent years of absence from the Junos highlight the ongoing challenges faced by artists in gaining recognition.
Drake’s speech concluded with a nod to Furtado’s achievements, stating, “Enjoy your Hall of Fame status, it’s long overdue.” This acknowledgment not only celebrated Furtado’s contributions but also served as a reminder of the evolving landscape of Canadian music.
Overall, the 2026 Juno Awards showcased a mix of new talent and established artists, with Drake’s presence—albeit virtual—serving as a significant moment in the event’s history. The reactions to his speech and the awards themselves will likely continue to resonate within the music community.
