Key moments
On March 30, 2026, Drake delivered a pre-recorded speech at the Juno Awards, honoring fellow artist Nelly Furtado. This appearance marks a significant moment as it comes after years of tension between Drake and the Juno Awards, particularly following his experience in 2011 when he hosted the ceremony and was snubbed for all the awards he was nominated for.
During his speech, Drake acknowledged Furtado’s contributions to the music industry, calling her “our North Star” and praising her resilience as a woman in a challenging environment. He stated, “Being a woman in the music industry in any era is something that I have to tip my hat to,” highlighting the struggles female artists often face.
Drake’s history with the Juno Awards is marked by disappointment; in 2011, his album “Take Care” was overlooked despite being nominated for multiple awards. That same year, Shad won the Rap Recording of the Year award, receiving six awards in total, while Drake left empty-handed. Since then, he has not submitted his music for Juno contention, further emphasizing the rift.
In his speech, Drake also referenced this past snub, saying, “Even though I know you’re still thinking about those six awards you gave to Shad when you snubbed Take Care when I hosted the 40th anniversary of your award show.” This remark reflects the ongoing tension and his feelings about the Juno Awards’ decisions.
Drake’s tribute to Furtado comes after a seven-year hiatus from releasing new music, and he expressed admiration for her long-awaited return to the industry. His next studio album, titled “Iceman,” is expected to be released soon, which may reignite his relationship with the Juno Awards in the future.
The speech, recorded from a studio rather than delivered in person at the Junos, received mixed reactions online. Some fans praised his heartfelt tribute to Furtado, while others criticized the continued focus on past grievances with the Juno Awards.
Shad, who won the Juno award in 2011, fact-checked Drake’s statement about the number of awards he won, which added another layer to the ongoing conversation about recognition in the Canadian music scene. As the Juno Awards continue to evolve, the impact of Drake’s comments may resonate with both fans and industry insiders.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding the full implications of Drake’s speech on his future involvement with the Juno Awards, but it is clear that his relationship with the institution remains complex and multifaceted.
