Drake sweeps rap categories at SOCAN Awards; Arkells celebrate impact of songwriting TORONTO — Drake wasn't around to accept a handful of SOCAN Awards on Tuesday, but the rapper's presence was still looming large at the celebration of Canadian songwriters. David Friend, The Canadian Press Sep 24, 2024 6:31 PM Share by Email Share on Facebook Share on X Share on LinkedIn Print Share via Text Message Arkells arrive on the red carpet for the 34th SOCAN Awards in Toronto, on Tuesday, September 24, 2024. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Paige Taylor White TORONTO — Drake wasn't around to accept a handful of SOCAN Awards on Tuesday, but the rapper's presence was still looming large at the celebration of Canadian songwriters.
The Toronto performer swept all four of the rap awards for his songs "Jimmy Cooks," "Rich Flex," "Spin Bout U," with 21 Savage, and "Wait For U," with Future and Tems. He also received the songwriter of the year award in the performer category. The celebration of homegrown songwriters, composers and music publishers unfolded at Toronto's History venue for an audience of music industry professionals.
Arkells lead singer Max Kerman joined his bandmates onstage to accept SOCAN's national achievement award for their domestic impact, offering one of the most emotional moments of night. In his acceptance speech, Kerman paid tribute to Allyson Van Niekerk, a dedicated fan who recently died of breast cancer at 42 years old. He said the Hamilton band met her at a concert a few ye.
