Jonathan sits down with Andrew, co-founder of Vancouver's BeatDapp, to explain how a real-time audit tool for streaming counts turned into one of the music industry's biggest fraud-fighting operations. They cover why audits can miss 20–35% of plays, how fraudsters hide behind unsuspecting artists (34,000 flagged, only 3 actually guilty), the landmark US streaming fraud case, and the hacked prison tablets that became a fraud machine.

They also dig into AI music: why real AI tracks average about one stream per listener, why heavy AI use so often points to fraud, and where Andrew thinks AI is genuinely useful for artists. Plus SoundExchange, BeatDapp's Battle of the Bands, how Andrew won his first pro fight and ended up buying a brewery, and why Jonathan will never sign a band just because it's already viral.

Subscribe to I Hate Simkin for bi-weekly deep dives into iconic Canadian music stories, behind-the-scenes label moments, and artist's career turning points. Likes, comments, and feedback help massively — thank you for supporting the show.

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In this episode Coleman talks:

• How his mom sent a rap mixtape to 604 without telling him

• Recording "Two Heads" in a single night, then watching it blow up

• Writing with Chad Kroeger and the lyric that became "Fireproof"

• Signing with Columbia and what happens when your A&R leaves

• Touring with Twenty One Pilots and Robert DeLong

• The Juno Awards sound disaster, and the comfort Jann Arden gave him backstage

• Growing up in Thunder Bay, Supertramp and The Cars

• The world-building behind Summerland

Stream the Summerland 10th anniversary edition, out now. A karaoke version of "Two Heads" is coming soon. Subscribe to I Hate Simkin for bi-weekly deep dives into iconic Canadian music stories, behind-the-scenes label moments, and artist's career turning points. Likes, comments, and feedback help massively — thank you for supporting the show.

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In their first-ever podcast appearance together, Zach and Tom help piece together a blurry, 18-year timeline of indie music history. Jonathan tells them that he literally launched an entirely new division of his company, Light Organ Records, as a tactical "white label" maneuver just to make the hipster-leaning band feel comfortable signing with him over the shadow of 604's related commercial acts (Nickelback, Theory of a Deadman, Marianas Trench etc.).

They chat about the early days of Lotus Child, carpooling to choir practice across Prince of Wales and Point Grey high schools, and the agonizing overnight shoots for the "Not In My Heart" stop-motion video. They also reflect on their atmospheric masterpiece Ancient Mars and how a music video inspired by the tragic Elisa Lam case ultimately forced them to change creative direction out of respect for her family.

Subscribe to I Hate Simkin for bi-weekly deep dives into iconic Canadian music stories, behind-the-scenes label moments, and artist's career turning points. Likes, comments, and feedback help massively — thank you for supporting the show.

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They dig into 604's early decision to hold onto its digital rights, the disaster of 360 deals, the Marianas Trench "Hot Chocolate" video that changed how the label thought about the internet, Bieber's tweet that helped launch Carly Rae Jepsen, and why Cam thinks the AI moment right now feels a lot like 2001 all over again.

Cam's book, Track Changes: The Origin Story of Canadian Music on the Internet, 1990–2010, is out now — find it at your local bookseller or follow @trackchanges_ca on Instagram for the archive of clips and old ads that go with it.

Subscribe to I Hate Simkin for bi-weekly deep dives into iconic Canadian music stories, behind-the-scenes label moments, and artist's career turning points. Likes, comments, and feedback help massively — thank you for supporting the show.

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Jonathan also takes a look at just how much the music business has shifted — Warner Canada's leadership change, mass layoffs across the majors, and SOCAN's move to absorb CMRRA etc., as well as a longer term look at cultural and structural improvements that have happened across the years.

The episode includes analysis & stories around:

- Elliot Smith's unparalleled lyrics

- Where Nickelback's San Quentin idea came from

- Receiving Billboard recognition & why people appreciate different characters in music now

- Fionn's recent rise and developing teenage artists

- A look back on Dallas Smith's decision to go country & why more Default tracks are likely ahead

- & Much more!

Subscribe to I Hate Simkin for bi-weekly deep dives into iconic Canadian music stories, behind-the-scenes label moments, and artist's career turning points. Likes, comments, and feedback help massively — thank you for supporting the show.

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To mark the 20th anniversary reissue of their album Quarterlife Crisis, the trio gets back together (virtually) to trace the band's whole arc: how a manager named Frank connected them with 604, the marathon recording sessions with the Berman Brothers and legendary Quebec engineer Rob Einy, shooting the "Play" video in Cuba, and the stranger, moodier world of the "Low" video shoot in Burnaby.

They also talk honestly about how the band quietly wound down, what it's like hearing your own record streamed back at you two decades later, the real (and much darker) meaning behind the lyrics of fan-favorite "Le Plaisir," and they remember bandmate Yohann Gosselin, who passed away a few years ago — his talent, his complicated relationships with the people around him, and the community that rallied for him at the end.

Plus: two previously unreleased bonus tracks, an acoustic live take on "Play," and why Jonathan still can't pronounce anybody's last name. You can find the anniversary record here: https://ffm.to/thesuitsxl

Subscribe to I Hate Simkin for bi-weekly deep dives into iconic Canadian music stories, behind-the-scenes label moments, and artist's career turning points. Likes, comments, and feedback help massively — thank you for supporting the show.

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Along the way they discuss Canadian punk legends DOA, The Northern Pikes, Propagandhi, rare vinyl collecting, music journalism, Expo 86, Walter Ostanek, and why Canada has far more musical history than most people realize.

The conversation includes: Taron's role at CBC Saskatchewan & Manitoba

Championing Saskatchewan artists on national radio

The story behind The Raccoons revival

Working with Kevin Gillis

Northern Pikes history and Saskatchewan music

DOA, Joey Shithead and Canadian punk

Rare vinyl collecting and music memorabilia

Why local music scenes matter

The future of Canadian music

Subscribe to I Hate Simkin for bi-weekly deep dives into iconic Canadian music stories, behind-the-scenes label moments, and artist's career turning points. Likes, comments, and feedback help massively — thank you for supporting the show.

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Jonathan is joined by his son, Connell Simkin Watt, and Connell's girlfriend, Toronto-based singer-songwriter Ally, for a conversation about songwriting, music school, and launching a career in today's music industry.

Ally shares the story behind her upcoming debut single "Rabbit Hole," how a dream inspired the song, and what it's been like developing her sound while studying music in Toronto. She also opens up about pursuing music as a visually impaired artist and the impact she hopes her work will have.

The conversation also covers:

The story behind Connell's unusual name

Growing up around the music business

Jonathan's memories of choosing "Call Me Maybe" as Carly Rae Jepsen's breakthrough single

Nickelback concerts, TIFF, and backstage stories

Musical influences including Radiohead, Billie Eilish, Taylor Swift, Fionn, Marianas Trench, and more

Advice for emerging artists

Subscribe to I Hate Simkin for bi-weekly deep dives into iconic Canadian music stories, behind-the-scenes label moments, and artist's career turning points. Likes, comments, and feedback help massively — thank you for supporting the show.

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Jonathan and Ron jump into a time capsule to reconstruct the late-'90s grind that launched a multi-platinum powerhouse. They reveal how Chad Kroeger used to prank-call radio stations pretending to be an indie promoter, the exact moment Ron got goosebumps watching the band play "Leader of Men" in a damp Vancouver venue, and the uphill battle of pitching a mainstream rock band to a hardcore metal label.

Plus stories like watching a sold-out Hammerstein Ballroom show side-stage with Jay-Z and Lyor Cohen.

This episode is available in video on Youtube or Spotify, and in audio form on other podcast platforms. Subscribe to I Hate Simkin for bi-weekly deep dives into iconic Canadian music stories, behind-the-scenes label moments, and artist's career turning points. Likes, comments, and feedback help massively — thank you for supporting the show.

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Jo explains why he terminated his publishing agreement with Universal Music Publishing and why he's now asking the Supreme Court of New South Wales to determine whether that termination was valid.

The conversation expands far beyond one contract dispute. Jo and Jonathan discuss publishing deals, royalty collection societies, neighbouring rights, SOCAN, PRS, APRA AMCOS, governance issues, board structures, voting systems, artist representation, transparency, and the growing debate around how music royalties are collected and distributed around the world.

Topics Include:

Why Jo sued Universal Music Publishing

The reality of publishing advances

How royalty collection actually works

Music industry monopolies

Why artists struggle to change industry systems

& Much More!

This episode is available in video form on YouTube & Spotify, and in audio form on all other pod platforms. Subscribe to I Hate Simkin for bi-weekly deep dives into iconic Canadian music stories, behind-the-scenes label moments, and artist's career turning points. Likes, comments, and feedback help massively — thank you for supporting the show.

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Jo (lead vocalist of Tora) explains how years of auditing his own catalog led him into a maze of publishing societies, international royalty systems, privacy requests, and millions of lines of data. Along the way he discovered missing registrations, unexplained reporting gaps, and answers from industry organizations that raised even more questions.

Jonathan compares Jo's experience to his own investigation into neighboring rights royalties in Canada and the issues that inspired his Billboard article. They chat about:

- Why Artists Become Industry Disruptors

- The Missing Audience Feedback Problem

- Discovering Music Used On TV Without Knowing

- Building A Royalty Audit System

- Crazy Admissions by Label Execs

- Outrageous Incentives, Accountability, And Transparency

& Much More!

Part 2 will be out this time next week. This episode is available in video on Spotify & YouTube, and in audio format on all other podcast platforms. Subscribe to I Hate Simkin for bi-weekly deep dives into iconic Canadian music stories, behind-the-scenes label moments, and artist's career turning points. Likes, comments, and feedback help massively — thank you for supporting the show.

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From Theory of a Deadman fighting the "Nickelback clone" label, to the controversy around My Darkest Days' "Porn Star Dancing," to the emotional fallout after Carly Rae Jepsen's "Call Me Maybe" era — this episode dives deep into the music industry politics, artist development, producer influence, and nostalgia resurgence bringing these bands back into the spotlight.

Jonathan talks about:

• Chad Kroeger and Joey Moi's influence on modern rock
• How Theory of a Deadman finally escaped Nickelback comparisons
• The success and backlash of Porn Star Dancing
• Why 2000s post-grunge rock is suddenly huge again
• Carly Rae Jepsen's transition from pop phenomenon to respected songwriter
• Jonathan & Carly's relationship after Call Me Maybe

Featuring discussion around: Theory of a Deadman, Nickelback, My Darkest Days, Carly Rae Jepsen, Three Days Grace, Chad Kroeger, Joey Moi, Faber Drive, Default, Thornley, Morgan Wallen and more.

Each segment is also available on Youtube (or soon will be). Like, reviews, shares, subscribing etc. help us big time. Thank you for listening!

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From The Long Road selling millions while being labeled a "failure," to when Nickelback started to get public abuse, Jonathan explains what was actually happening behind the scenes during one of the biggest backlashes against a rock band.

He looks back on giving up creative control on Marianas Trench's This Means War video, and why that song didn't connect commercially. He also responds in detail to comments and narratives surrounding The Organ, their breakup, the Polaris Heritage Award controversy, and why he feels 604's role in the band's success has been erased from the story.

The episode also covers:

• Why Nickelback became a punching bag online
• The psychology of rock fans and backlash
• Marianas Trench's Astoria era pressure
• How The Organ almost became massive internationally
• The beginning of 604 studios due to The Organ 'tossing a record in the river'
• Why some Canada's biggest ever bands never made it out of the country

Each segment is also available on Youtube (or soon will be). Like, reviews, shares etc. help us big time. Thank you for listening!

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He breaks down how Matthew Good went from playing small Vancouver cafes to becoming one of the biggest bands in Canada, why Two Heads exploded worldwide, what major labels get wrong after a hit song, and how a funeral ballad quietly became one of 604 Records' most streamed songs ever.

The episode also dives into:

• The early Matthew Good Band years
• CFOX Seeds and Vancouver rock history
• Why some artists become "one-hit wonders"
• How losing the person who signed you to a label can put your music career on the shelf
• The emotional impact of Dancing in the Sky
• Coleman Hell, Mad Dog Jones, and Thunder Bay's weird creative scene
• Why some Canadian bands never fully crossed into the US
• Canadian Live rock scenes in the 90s

Featuring stories about Matthew Good, Coleman Hell, Dani and Lizzy, Nickelback, Mad Dog Jones, 21 Pilots, Carly Rae Jepsen, Pure, Dreamworks Records, Columbia Records and more.

Each segment is also available on Youtube (or soon will be). Like, reviews, shares, subscribing etc. help us big time. Thank you for listening!

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In this episode, Ryan breaks down how he built his studio from the ground up, how it hospitalized him with anxiety, and the art of being a good hang to move up in the music industry.

Topics include:

- Building Echo Plant Studio

- Why he left a heavily religious upbringing

- Why mixing, producing, and songwriting require different mindsets

- Dear Rouge and Fake Shark

- The JUNOs are dwindling into nothingness

- Harrowing stories of anti-semites you come across from time to time in Music

- And much more!

This episode is also available in video form on YouTube. Subscribe to I Hate Simkin for bi-weekly deep dives into iconic Canadian music stories, behind-the-scenes label moments, and artist's career turning points. Likes, comments, and feedback help massively — thank you for supporting the show.

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Aaron spent over 20 years working inside Vancouver's live music world, including at major venues like The Commodore Ballroom during the shift from House of Blues to Live Nation. He shares what changed behind the scenes as the industry became more corporate—and what that meant for musicians, venues, and audiences.

The conversation dives into the rise and fall of Vancouver's live music ecosystem, why mid-level bands struggle today, and how licensing laws, rising costs, and shifting nightlife habits reshaped the city's entertainment culture. Aaron also discusses his decision to leave Live Nation after two decades and pursue a run for Vancouver City Council with the OneCity party. He explains what pushed him toward politics, what he believes the city is getting wrong, and the small practical changes he thinks could make a real difference—especially for arts, venues, and local businesses.

This episode is also available on all audio podcast platforms. Subscribe to I Hate Simkin for bi-weekly deep dives into iconic Canadian music stories, behind-the-scenes label moments, and artist's career turning points. Likes, comments, and feedback help massively — thank you for supporting the show.

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Jonathan Simkin sits down to chat through the best music you can listen to on 4/20, ranging from trippy Intraset tunes to Peter Tosh to Born Slippy by Underworld.

There's chat on why there's such a range of music linked with Cannabis and nostalgia around iconic live performances for stoners.

Just search 60420 or Hazy Days for either of the playlists mentioned during the podcast.

We'll have a regular episode as usual on Wednesday. This episode is also available on video on YouTube. Subscribe to I Hate Simkin for bi-weekly deep dives into iconic Canadian music stories, behind-the-scenes label moments, and artist's career turning points. Likes, comments, and feedback help massively — thank you for supporting the show.

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Emma went from PA'ing on music video sets to becoming an award-winning music director with a feature film now streaming. Kesi helped shape 604 Records from the ground up and now runs the label as General Manager.

Topics include:

• Starting at the bottom and breaking into directing
• The collapse of music video budgets (and what replaced them)
• What it really takes to make a feature film
• The difference between talent vs confidence in creative careers
• Industry gatekeeping, funding, and how projects actually get made
• The reality of touring with major artists like Justin Bieber

Emma also breaks down how her film Sweetness went from idea to theaters, including funding, casting, and surviving production.

This episode is also available on all audio podcast platforms and in video on YouTube. Subscribe to I Hate Simkin for bi-weekly deep dives into iconic Canadian music stories, behind-the-scenes label moments, and artist career turning points. Likes, comments, and feedback help massively — thank you for supporting the show.

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They cover:

• How Carly Rae Jepsen's early album was nearly scrapped • Why "Call Me Maybe" became the single • From working at HMV to quitting for music • Building 604 Records' studio by accident • Sync licensing in NHL and NBA broadcasts • Comedy Here Often and the business of stand-up • Celebrity encounters with Gary Oldman and Tom Green • Why comedians are "the most vicious" industry

And much more!

This episode is also available on all audio podcast platforms and in video on YouTube. Subscribe to I Hate Simkin for bi-weekly deep dives into iconic Canadian music stories, behind-the-scenes label moments, and artist career turning points. Likes, comments, and feedback help massively — thank you for supporting the show.

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From recording DIY demos and signing with Sub Pop and Warner Bros to touring internationally and landing major radio hits, Steve reflects on how fame reshaped his life and career.

They explore why most bands don't last, how AI is changing music creation, the pressures of major labels, and what it takes to build a sustainable creative life after commercial success.

Steve also discusses Mounties, Left Field Messiah, producing, fatherhood, and why longevity matters more than viral moments.

This episode is also available on all audio podcast platforms and in video on YouTube. Subscribe to I Hate Simkin for bi-weekly deep dives into iconic Canadian music stories, behind-the-scenes label moments, and artist career turning points. Likes, comments, and feedback help massively — thank you for supporting the show.

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Kayla shares how she left law school to pursue music, accidentally hung up on the label that signed her, and quickly found herself navigating radio success, touring pressure, and an industry that didn't work the way she was promised.

They explore how streaming platforms reshaped careers overnight, the emotional toll of bad management, why Kayla stepped away at her peak — and how she rebuilt her life and career by founding Kolossal Records.

This episode is about artist development, control, burnout, and why longevity in music often means redefining success entirely.

This episode is also available on all audio podcast platforms and in video on YouTube. Subscribe to I Hate Simkin for bi-weekly deep dives into iconic Canadian music stories, behind-the-scenes label moments, and artist career turning points. Likes, comments, and feedback help massively — thank you for supporting the show.

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From nearly losing their first audition to extortion pressure, to busking with their own speakers, to finally earning their first-ever Billboard #1 plaque, this episode breaks down the realities of artists people don't see online.

They talk about:

• The night someone tried to cancel their audition unless they were paid
• Why people often expect female artists to be bad before they play
• Bringing their own speakers to a record label audition
• Why it really takes 10 years to build a music career
• Embarrassing early TikToks and learning the hard way
• How Canadian radio still changes careers
• Going from living together their entire lives to finally living apart This episode is about patience, growth, gender bias, and surviving the long middle of a creative career. 🎧 This episode is available on Youtube in video form. Subscribe to IHS for more biweekly nostalgic music interviews. Likes & comments help us out big time. Thank you to everyone who feeds back! 🎤 Guest: Fionn (Alanna & Brianne Finn Morris) 🎙️ Hosted by Jonathan Simkin

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From Chad Kroeger discovering the band and early Vancouver showcases, to Greenhouse Studios, Nickelback tours, and the chaotic rise of Wasting My Time, this episode pulls back the curtain on how fast success actually works — and how fragile it is.

They break down:

• Why TVT Records failed them at distribution

• The feeling watching Dallas' success after Default

• Radio spins vs real album sales

• Touring with Nickelback, Bush, and arena crowds

• The financial reality behind "platinum" success

• Business mismanagement, unpaid taxes, and lost revenue

• Why Default disappeared — and how close they were to staying massive

This episode is also available on all audio podcast platforms and in video on YouTube. Subscribe to I Hate Simkin for bi-weekly deep dives into iconic Canadian music stories, behind-the-scenes label moments, and artist career turning points. Likes, comments, and feedback help massively — thank you for supporting the show.

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They break down why major label deals stopped making sense, the most exciting moments of their career, and the "old-but-new" sound they're chasing in their next chapter. From masters and short-term deals to cancel culture, social media backlash, and the illusion of success, this episode pulls back the curtain on what longevity in modern rock really looks like.

The conversation also dives into early Vancouver days, Greenhouse Studios, Juno politics, international touring, and why simplifying the business side of the band became the key to staying sane — and independent — after 25 years.

00:00 – The tweet controversy and why they left 604 Records 05:25 – Why they'll never sign to a label again 09:57 – How Nickelback changed their perspective 13:09 – Chris Baseford, production, and the direction of the new music 18:46 – The most exciting days of Theory of a Deadman 23:25 – What their kids listen to and getting in "under the wire" 32:40 – Why touring is better than ever and what's next

This episode is available on all audio podcast platforms.

Subscribe to I Hate Simkin for bi-weekly, behind-the-scenes conversations with iconic rock artists, industry veterans, and the people who shaped Canadian music. Likes, comments, and feedback help the show massively — thank you for supporting.

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They break down the exact moments that changed everything: how Default and Nickelback unexpectedly shaped Theory's early trajectory, the chaos of early music videos, recording Gasoline with Howard Benson, navigating label politics, surviving the Napster era, and the creative risks that helped Theory of a Deadman outlast an entire generation of rock bands.

This is a candid, behind-the-scenes conversation about longevity, mistakes, and why playing the long game in the music industry actually works.

They talk through (in order):

– "I was actually nervous about this one"

– How the band got signed and launched 604 as a record label

– All or Nothing nostalgia

– How RX & Napster changed everything for Theory

– Being drawn into the Nickelback push back

– Gasoline & the big change in Theory's tunes & lyrics

– The complicated relationship with drummers & managing money early on

– Why the long game works in music

Part 2 drops January 21. This episode is also available on all audio podcast platforms and YouTube in video.

Subscribe to I Hate Simkin for bi-weekly deep dives into iconic Canadian music stories, behind-the-scenes label moments, and artist career turning points. Likes, comments, and feedback help massively — thank you for supporting the show.

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Jeff dives into:

🎵 How ignoring "industry rules" helped his career 🎵 Why Canada's music scene pushes bands coast-to-coast instead of down to New York 🎵 Booking DIY tours before social media 🎵 The moment Crash Test Dummies started selling 80,000 albums a week 🎵 How MTV, Letterman, SNL, and KROQ changed everything 🎵 The wild truth about sudden success: new relationships, burned bridges, and massive pressure 🎵 Touring with Elvis Costello, parties at Donald Trump's house, Carly Simon on stage, and navigating the biggest opportunities of his career 🎵 The darker side of having a global hit (and the NDAs that come with it)

Jonathan shares his own parallel experience with Call Me Maybe, comparing the highs, lows, and long-term impact of having a song take over the world.

This is a rare, honest look at fame, artist development, radio politics, risk-taking, and the parts of the music industry you never see.

Episode out now — hosted by Jonathan Simkin.

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• His early days running incorrect weather forecasts on radio

• Being the first person to play The Tragically Hip on radio • Launching local Kingston bands and building a true DIY music scene

• Crossing paths with Sarah Harmer, The Inbreds, Mahones & more

• Everything wrong he saw with award shows that inspired Polaris

• What label life was really like in the 90s and 2000s and why his dream was not reality

• Why most A&R scouting was painful ("90% of bands you check out aren't good")

• The truth about discovering commercial acts vs. music you love

• How the industry has completely changed — and why nobody knows what it is anymore

You'll hear a ton of behind-the-scenes music industry history, wild anecdotes from the early days of Canadian rock, and honest insight about signing artists, surviving label politics, and building long-term careers.

The full episode is available on Youtube if you prefer video. If you enjoy the podcast please rate/review us it helps us a lot! If you care about Canadian music, A&R stories, or the evolution of the industry — this episode is a must-watch/listen. New episodes of I Hate Simkin every second week. Hosted by Jonathan Simkin. Powered by 604 Records.

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Louise reveals never-before-heard stories from the early 2000s pop machine with Lillix, a forgotten album that never came out, and what it was really like to grow up inside the Canadian music industry while the rest of the world was watching.

This episode blends nostalgia, insight, and raw honesty about the realities of success, creative control, and the business of making it big in music.

🎧 I Hate Simkin is where 604 Records founder Jonathan Simkin shares unfiltered conversations with the artists who shaped Canadian music — from massive pop moments to the scenes that never made the headlines.

The full video episode is available on Youtube too. If you're enjoying the podcast, please leave a rating/review, it helps us big time!

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They revisit the chaos, the friendships, and the heartbreak that defined the 90s Vancouver music era — including a Detroit radio hit they never even knew about, record deals that almost happened, and how creative relationships can implode under pressure.

👉 You can watch the full episode now on Youtube (@IHateSimkin) — it's a crash course in Canadian music history, told by two people who lived it.

If you're enjoying the podcast please leave a rating/review, it helps us big time!

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Dave gives us the inside track on how one of the biggest bands in Canada was doomed from the start despite so much popularity, why you shouldn't expect your favourite bands to stay together, and a look back on the Armchair Cynics new music 20 years after their big push to make it in the industry.

They also reflect on the chaos of Canadian rock in the 2000s, and laugh through stories of the records that almost never saw the light of day.

The full episode is available in video on Youtube, and part 2 is out this time next week.

If you're enjoying the podcast please leave a rating/review as it helps us reach more people who want insider info on the biggest acts in Canada across the last 30 years!

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Todd & Jonathan also both update listeners requesting Chad Kroeger joins their pods, Jonathan explains why he had hard feelings about Theory of a Deadman leaving 604, and the difference between the likes of Josh Ramsay and Chad in dealing with the public.

The full episode is available on Youtube in video also - Please leave a like/rating/comment wherever you watch or listen, it helps us with our reach a lot!

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They discuss the business nightmares of label bankruptcy and locked masters, the relationship with Joey Moi & Mountain View, why 604's hands-on model mattered, and how streaming and touring economics now change the way careers are built and paid.

Dallas also opens up about the personal cost of touring, family challenges, and the friendships that outlasted it all.

The full episode is available in video on Youtube also!

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In this episode, Jonathan shares personal stories of meeting Gaye near the end of his life and being gifted Gaye's own platinum record. We dive into why musicians revered him, how his larger-than-life personality left a lasting impression, and what it meant to be a "fixer" lawyer in the Canadian music industry.

Jonathan also dives deep into the making of Nickelback's blockbuster album All the Right Reasons—from the pressure after The Long Road, to hearing "Photograph" for the first time at 2 a.m., to Daniel Adair joining the band and the wave of online hate that ironically helped them sell out arenas. Hear how late-night phone calls, unexpected country influences, and a medieval castle wedding all tie into the band's most successful era.

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Jonathan shares candid stories about touring, the challenges of management, and why talent isn't always enough in the music business, as well as a look at Holly's later work and what she's up to now.

He also looks back at the plaque for You Can't Stop the Bum Rush, the album by LEN which included one of the biggest hits of the 90s, Steal My Sunshine - The story of how it came to be is filled with twists, chaos, and unforgettable moments. Jonathan shares his behind-the-scenes perspective on working with Marc & Sharon Costanzo — from early underground albums, to MuchMusic snow jams, to negotiating samples, to the international explosion of Steal My Sunshine.

This episode dives into quirky brilliance, lawsuits, budgets blown on partying, and the reality of what happens when one hit song takes a band around the world.

🎙 Hosted by Jonathan Simkin, I Hate Simkin pulls back the curtain on the music industry with raw, unfiltered stories.

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🎶 Part One: Carly Rae Jepsen

• The untold story of her unreleased album that almost changed everything

• Why her admiration of Marianas Trench drew her to 604 Records

• The surprising ambition she had early on: starting her own label

• Her unique "listening party" feedback method that shaped her music

• The making of Tug of War and how Jonathan first signed her after Canadian Idol

🎸 Part Two: Matthew Good Band

• Jonathan's high-stakes gamble to land him a record deal without knowing the industry

• How label execs chose not to help during Matthew's bipolar struggles

• Why the angsty Canadian rock scene of the 2000s didn't fully break into the U.S.

• Honest reflections on an era of Canadian music that almost broke through globally

This episode blends untold stories of Carly Rae Jepsen's rise and Matthew Good's struggles, giving you an unfiltered look at the Canadian music industry—straight from the guy who lived it.

👉 Don't miss this deep dive into Canadian music history. Full episode out now!

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They dive into the intimidation of networking and personal insecurities, investigating allegations and the emotional weight of journalism.

Chapters:

06:35 Navigating the Music Industry: Personal Experiences

12:48 Mentorship and Community in Music

16:06 Investigating Allegations in the Music Industry

24:44 The Struggles of Investigative Journalism

30:10 The Impact of COVID on Careers

34:31 The State of Canadian Music Industry

39:14 The Shift in Artist Development

44:04 The Changing Landscape of Fame and Success

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They unpack:

The bizarre rise of Len and what happened after

The value and illusion of "indie credibility"

How artist relationships can make — or break — your label

Why The Weeknd succeeded and Song Corp collapsed

The importance of mentorship in a chaotic industry

And how some wounds in music take decades to heal It's nostalgic, insightful, and sometimes absurd — a must-listen for anyone trying to understand the Canadian music industry from the inside out.

🎙 Full episode out now on YouTube + all podcast platforms.

Chapters:

02:53 The Music Business Journey Begins

06:08 The DSK Connection

08:48 The Rise of Len and 'Steal My Sunshine'

11:59 The Complexities of Artist Relationships

14:48 Navigating the Music Industry's Challenges

18:13 The Impact of Indie Cred

21:13 How Music Consumption has Changed

26:59 The Aftermath of Legal Battles

37:54 The Aftermath of Fame for Artists

41:31 Mentorship and the Journey of Teenage USA

42:57 The Evolution of The Weeknd

44:40 Defining Success in the Music Industry

45:40 Navigating the Challenges of Record Labels

47:39 Lessons from the Fall of Song Corp

51:41 The Journey of Selling and Regaining Control

01:07:44 Reflections on the Music Industry and Personal Growth

01:12:27 The Nickelback Phenomenon and Closing Thoughts

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They dive into Ralph's wild journey from rock musician to booking agent to industry gatekeeper — and the crucial role he played in the rise of bands like Nickelback and Marianas Trench. From Canadian touring nightmares to artist reinvention, from merit-based representation to the chaos of live shows, Ralph shares hard-earned truths about the ever-changing music industry.

Plus: industry controversies, substance abuse, gambling, and what success really looks like after decades in the game.

🎙 Whether you're a die-hard music fan or just industry-curious, this one's packed with unfiltered insights and backstage stories.

Chapters:

02:00 Ralph's musical past & Harlequin

04:59 Touring Canada & artist management

10:05 Marianas Trench: evolution & strategy

15:02 Nickelback's early struggles

19:56 Controversies & misunderstandings in music

24:54 Merit, representation & fairness

31:08 Early career challenges

32:04 How the live music business changed

34:38 Reinvigorating a career

36:26 Passion for the job

37:18 Listening properly

39:13 Relationship-building in the industry

40:31 Reflections on success

42:00 Gambling & substance abuse

43:21 The future of the biz

51:17 Indie artist hustle

53:40 Creative freedom in production

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They cover how artists today are gaining independence from major labels, the growing importance of music publishing and sync licensing, and what it really takes to build a sustainable music career in the streaming age.

They share insights from working with legacy estates like Glenn Gould, the rise of ambient music, and what the future looks like for music rights, catalog value, and niche genres.

Whether you're a musician, manager, or just love music industry stories, this episode is packed with insider knowledge you won't want to miss. Chapters

02:46 The Changing Canadian Music Industry

05:49 Personal Journeys in Music Management

11:54 The Confusing Role of Labels Today

15:10 Artists Taking Control of Their Careers

18:02 Reflections on Major Labels and Their Future

27:36 The State of the Music Industry

30:06 Creating a Hub for Artists

32:29 The Shift to Digital and Niche Markets

36:07 What Is Success in the New Music Landscape

43:48 The Crazy Value of Music Catalogs

55:27 The Mystery of Sync Licensing

01:00:10 Building a Music Rights Management Company

01:04:20 The Glenn Gould Administration

01:07:44 The Rise of Ambient Music

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is unfiltered, behind-the-scenes storytelling from two people who've seen it all.

🎧 Subscribe & follow I Hate Simkin wherever you get your podcasts. 📌 New episodes every second Friday.

Chapters

03:10 The Much Music Video Awards and Industry Politics

06:05 A&R Experiences and Band Signings

08:51 The Evolution of Age of Electric and Static in Stereo

15:00 Early Career Experiences in the Music Business

17:53 Strip Bar Obsessions and Rock Band Culture

20:57 Management Challenges and Artist Relationships

26:55 The Impact of Major Label Mergers

29:49 Holly McNarland and Her Musical Journey

33:35 The Unconventional Approach to Music Business

36:33 Navigating the Challenges of Music Funding

38:39 The Evolution of Indie Labels and Global Reach

40:05 The Impact of Major Labels on Artist Success

43:29 The Rollercoaster of Fame and Its Aftermath

47:57 The Shift from Physical to Digital Music

51:20 The New Dynamics of Touring and Revenue

53:29 The Changing Landscape of Music Videos

56:18 The Role of Canadian Funding in Music Production

01:01:15 Reflections on the Music Industry's Evolution

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Michael McCarty (former SOCAN exec and publishing legend) joins Jonathan Simkin to talk about the realities of working with artists — from spotting talent early to surviving the music industry long term.

They dive into:

• The rise of Steal My Sunshine and Call Me Maybe

• Creative control in music videos vs. major label expectations

• What artist development actually means behind the scenes

• Why songwriting still trumps hype

• One-hit wonders and what defines "lasting" success

• The Wild West era of sampling — and what's changed

• Digital collectibles & future artist revenue streams

This is unfiltered, behind-the-scenes storytelling from two people who've been in it for decades.

🎧 Subscribe & follow I Hate Simkin wherever you get your podcasts. 📌 New episodes every second Friday. Chapters:

01:17 The Origin of 'I Hate Simkin'

03:06 Polarizing Figures in the Music Industry

07:10 Early Career Reflections and Aggression in Law

09:05 The Journey of Matthew Good and Music Publishing

12:46 Artist Development and the Role of Publishers

15:08 The Evolution of Music Videos and Creative Control

20:39 The Impact of 'Steal My Sunshine' and Sampling

32:08 The Enduring Nature of Music and Licensing Trends

34:34 The Impact of 'Call Me Maybe' and the Download Era

37:43 Identifying Talent: The Art of A&R

40:08 The Intrigue of Music Videos and Artist Personas

42:20 The Reality of One-Hit Wonders

43:34 The Craft of Songwriting: More Than Meets the Ear

45:05 The Challenge of Repeated Success in Music

48:39 Green Lighting: The Decision-Making Process in Music

51:32 Lessons from George Lucas and the Beatles

57:06 The Evolution of Music Production and Artist Development

01:06:55 The New Era of Music: Technology and Direct Artist Engagement

01:12:49 The Future of Digital Collectibles in Music

#IHateSimkin #MichaelMcCarty #MusicIndustry #604Records #OneHitWonders #ArtistDevelopment #CallMeMaybe #StealMySunshine #MusicVideos #PodcastLaunch #MusicPodcast #SpotifyPodcasts #ApplePodcasts #FullEpisode

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Nickelback's Mike Kroeger joins longtime friend and 604 Records co-founder Jonathan Simkin to kick off the first episode of I Hate Simkin.

• They dive into the real story behind the iconic "I Hate Simkin" T-shirt
• Why fans seem to punish success and love their artists tormented
• Three Doors Down vs. Nickelback: The rise, the resentment, and the industry's double standard
• Label politics, Twitter pile-ons, and the truth about staying normal in a chaotic business

🎧 Subscribe & follow I Hate Simkin wherever you get your podcasts.

📌 New episodes every second Friday.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

You've heard the music. Now hear the chaos behind it. Every episode, Simkin sits down with the artists, agents, and music lifers who've helped shape 604 Records — and survived him in the process.

No PR polish. No soft edits. Just the real stories about fame, failure, label politics, and the stuff that never makes the press releases.

📌 New episodes drop every second Friday.

🎧 Subscribe now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube & more.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.