The Music Industry’s Most Honest Voice - Jonathan Simkin Tells All | heartdea13r ep. 001
Welcome to heartdea13r - a new series featuring raw, unfiltered conversations with music industry insiders who dare to tell the truth.In this inaugural episode, 604 Records founder Jonathan Simkin breaks down what it really takes to survive in the music business. From his shocking transformation from criminal defence lawyer to entertainment mogul, Jonathan reveals the brutal realities behind building Canada's most successful independent label.
“I’m trying to be honest in a dishonest business.”
What You'll Discover:
- How a troubled youth became Nickelback's lawyer for 32+ years
- Why "Call Me Maybe" shocked even him with its massive success
- The real story behind signing Theory of a Dead Man as 604's first act
- Why most people in the music business are "full of shit"
- How he works until 4AM every night and still maintains a family life
- The pivotal moment that changed how 604 approaches every release
- Why he responds to all 400 daily emails (and you should too)
- Honest advice on when artists actually need managers vs. booking agents
