Key moments
In a surprising turn of events, Drake delivered a pre-recorded speech at the Juno Awards on March 30, 2026, honoring fellow artist Nelly Furtado. This appearance marks a notable moment in Drake’s ongoing relationship with the Junos, which has been fraught with tension since he hosted the awards in 2011 and was snubbed for all the nominations he received.
Drake’s speech, recorded from a studio rather than in person, included heartfelt praise for Furtado, whom he referred to as “our North Star.” He acknowledged the challenges women face in the music industry, stating, “Being a woman in the music industry in any era is something that I have to tip my hat to.” His comments were made during the 40th anniversary of the Juno Awards, a milestone that has drawn attention to the event’s past controversies.
In 2011, Drake’s album “Take Care” was overlooked while Shad won the Rap Recording of the Year award, leading to a long-standing feud with the Junos. Drake’s frustration was evident as he quipped, “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 history has contributed to his decision not to submit music for Juno contention since that year.
Drake’s remarks about Furtado come after her seven-year hiatus from releasing new music, making her recognition at the Junos particularly poignant. He expressed admiration for her resilience in the industry, emphasizing the importance of honoring artists who have paved the way for others.
While many fans and industry insiders celebrated Drake’s speech, reactions on social media were mixed. Some praised his tribute to Furtado, while others criticized the timing and context of his comments, given his contentious history with the awards. This duality reflects the complex nature of Drake’s relationship with the Junos and the broader music community.
Shad, who won the Juno in 2011, even fact-checked Drake’s statement about the number of awards he received, highlighting the ongoing dialogue about recognition and merit within the music industry. As the conversation continues, it remains clear that Drake’s influence and presence in the industry are undeniable, even as he navigates his past grievances.
As fans await the release of Drake’s next studio album, titled “Iceman,” the impact of his speech at the Junos is likely to resonate within the music community for some time. Details remain unconfirmed about how this appearance will affect his future interactions with the Juno Awards, but it certainly adds another layer to his storied career.