Drake, Arkells honoured at SOCAN Awards [Video]

Drake wasn’t around to accept a handful of trophies at the 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 rap awards for his songs “Jimmy Cooks,” “Rich Flex,” “Spin Bout U,” with 21 Savage, and “Wait For U,” with Future and Tems. 

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He also received the songwriter of the year award in the performer category.

Dozens of SOCAN awards were handed out to homegrown songwriters, composers and music publishers during a celebration 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 night’s most emotional moments.

In his speech, Kerman paid tribute to Allyson Van Niekerk, a dedicated fan who recently died of …