With a signature sound that blends hip-hop and pop with the infectious rhythms of reggae and dancehall, Canadian producer and songwriter Boi-1da is the force behind some of the decade’s biggest records. From Drake’s anthemic “God’s Plan” to Rihanna’s chart-dominating “Work”, his fingerprints are all over modern music.
With 19 Grammy nominations and a résumé stacked with A-list collaborations, Boi-1da, born Matthew Samuels, has built a legacy from behind the boards. Now, in recognition of his extraordinary contributions to the Canadian and global music scene, he will be honoured with the 2025 JUNO International Achievement Award, cementing his place among Canada’s most successful artists.
Born in Kingston, Jamaica, and raised in Toronto’s vibrant Jamaican community, Boi-1da’s first love was dancehall music. Recognizing his passion early on, his mother gifted him a Casio keyboard at age eight. That passion deepened into an obsession when he discovered FruityLoops, now FL Studio, transforming countless hours of beat-making into the foundation of a groundbreaking career.
This dedication paid off when he entered Toronto’s “Battle of the Beatmakers” competition at 17. Competing against seasoned producers, he won the tournament three years in a row, proving his talent and helping him gain local recognition with key figures in the industry, including Toronto hip-hop pioneers Saukrates and Kardinal Offishall.
But his real breakthrough came when he crossed paths with a young Toronto rapper named Drake. At just 18, Boi-1da helped shape the sound of Room for Improvement, one of Drake’s earliest projects, sparking a creative partnership that would define Canadian hip-hop. Their collaboration soon led to the breakout hit “Best I Ever Had” from So Far Gone, propelling both of their careers to new heights.
As Drake’s star rose, so did Boi-1da’s. He quickly became one of the most sought-after producers in the industry, crafting hits like Eminem’s No. 1 single “Not Afraid” and producing for Nicki Minaj, Kanye West, Kendrick Lamar, JAY-Z, Rihanna, Cardi B, and Beyoncé earning the title of “Hip Hop’s Secret Weapon.”
By the mid-2010s, Boi-1da had become synonymous with the sound of modern hip-hop. He played a key role in Drake’s defining projects, including Nothing Was the Same, If You’re Reading This It’s Too Late, and More Life. His work on “God’s Plan” secured him another Billboard Hot 100 No. 1 and a Grammy win for Best Rap Song.
When Boi-1da first emerged, Canadian hip-hop was still struggling for global recognition, often overshadowed by its American counterparts. But now, thanks to trailblazers like him and Drake, Toronto has cultivated a distinct sound that has reshaped the industry. No longer playing catch-up, Canadian artists are now leading the charge on the world stage.
Yet, Boi-1da’s influence extends far beyond hip-hop. His versatility has allowed him to work across genres, contributing to projects by Justin Bieber, Maroon 5, and Ed Sheeran. His production credits now include over 60 Platinum singles, four RIAA-certified Diamond records, and multiple Billboard Hot 100 chart-toppers, proving his ability to shape global music regardless of genre.
As he prepares to accept the 2025 JUNO International Achievement Award, his impact on music remains undeniable. From crafting beats in his bedroom to shaping the sounds of hip-hop, R&B, and pop worldwide, Boi-1da has cemented his status as one of the most important producers of his generation. And with his career still in full force, his influence is only set to grow.
You can watch Boi-1da’s award acceptance live and in-person at The 2025 JUNO Awards in Vancouver. Tickets on sale now at ticketmaster.ca/junos.