Key moments
On March 30, 2026, Drake made waves at the Juno Awards with a pre-recorded speech honoring fellow artist Nelly Furtado. This moment was particularly poignant as it came after a long-standing feud between Drake and the Juno Awards, which began when he hosted the ceremony in 2011 and was snubbed for all the awards he was nominated for.
Drake’s speech not only celebrated Furtado’s contributions to music but also served as a reminder of his own experiences with the awards. He humorously referenced the six awards given to Shad in 2011, noting, “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 statement reflects the lingering feelings Drake has about that night, where his album, *Take Care*, was overlooked despite its critical acclaim.
Since that fateful year, Drake has not submitted any of his music for Juno contention, a decision that underscores his discontent with the awards. His absence from the nominations has been felt, especially considering the impact he has had on the Canadian music scene. In 2011, his album *Thank Me Later* was nominated for multiple awards but failed to win any, further fueling his frustration.
In his tribute, Drake referred to Furtado as “our North Star,” highlighting her resilience as a woman in the music industry. He stated, “Being a woman in the music industry in any era is something that I have to tip my hat to,” acknowledging the challenges female artists face. Furtado’s return to music after a seven-year hiatus has been celebrated, and Drake’s recognition of her journey adds to the warmth of the moment.
Drake’s speech was recorded from a studio and not delivered in person at the Junos, yet it resonated with many fans and artists alike. The mixed online reactions to his speech indicate that while some appreciated his honesty and humor, others felt it was a stark reminder of his past grievances with the awards.
As the music community reflects on Drake’s tribute, it also looks forward to his upcoming studio album titled *Iceman*, which is set to be released soon. This new project promises to showcase his continued evolution as an artist and his commitment to the craft.
In a closing note, Drake expressed his admiration for Furtado’s Hall of Fame status, saying, “Enjoy your Hall of Fame status, it’s long overdue.” This sentiment encapsulates the spirit of the night—a celebration of talent, resilience, and the bonds formed within the music community.
