In a significant moment at the 2026 Juno Awards held in Hamilton, Ontario, Drake delivered a pre-recorded speech honoring fellow artist Nelly Furtado. This marks Drake’s first involvement with the Junos since he last attended in 2011, following a notable snub where his acclaimed album Take Care was overlooked in favor of Shad, who won multiple awards that year.
During his speech, Drake reflected on the 2011 incident, stating, “Even though I know you’re still thinking about those six awards that you gave to Shad in 2011 when you snubbed [my album] Take Care as I hosted the 40th anniversary of your award show.” His comments have sparked mixed reactions online, with many fans and critics weighing in on social media.
Drake’s absence from the Junos for 15 years has been notable, especially given his immense influence in the music industry. He praised Furtado’s impact on his career, saying, “Being a woman in the music industry in any era is something that I have to tip my hat to.” This acknowledgment of Furtado’s contributions highlights the importance of female artists in a predominantly male-dominated industry.
The 2026 Juno Awards also celebrated other significant achievements, with Tate McRae winning four awards, including artist and single of the year. Additionally, bbno$ took home the fan choice award, while The Beaches won group of the year for the third consecutive year.
In a broader context, the event saw Joni Mitchell receiving a Lifetime Achievement Award, further emphasizing the rich history of Canadian music celebrated at the Junos. Drake’s upcoming studio album, titled Iceman, is also generating buzz, as fans eagerly await its release.
Drake’s speech and the overall ceremony reflect a changing landscape in the Canadian music scene, where artists are increasingly recognized for their contributions, regardless of past controversies. As the music industry evolves, the recognition of diverse talents continues to grow.
As reactions to Drake’s speech continue to unfold, the impact of his words on the music community remains to be seen. The 2026 Juno Awards have undoubtedly reignited discussions about recognition, legacy, and the importance of inclusivity in music.