Canadian singer Nelly Furtado is learning to ride the wave of love associated with her return to the music industry, thanks in part to Drake.

The singer-songwriter of the hit I’m Like a Bird, from Victoria, B.C., says it took the Toronto rap superstar’s persistence to get her excited about making music again.

Two summers ago, Drake begged Furtado to make a surprise appearance at his concert celebrating the Canadian musicians who inspired him.

Nelly Furtado says the experience ignited a creative fire in her that led to collaborations with other Canadian artists, such as singers Alessia Cara and Charlotte Day Wilson, for an upcoming album.

In addition to preparing the release of her next album, Nelly Furtado is also working on her mission as host of the next Juno Awards gala in Halifax, where she will also perform.

The awards ceremony will take place at the end of March, while this year’s finalists will be announced in Toronto on February 6.