Heartdea13r w/ chr1stoph3r g0nda Jonathan Simkin on Honesty in the Music Business, Nickelback, Authenticity & 604 Records // #001
29 snips
Jul 14, 2025 Jonathan Simkin, founder of 604 Records, has transitioned from a criminal defense lawyer to a music executive. He shares his journey, revealing the stark realities of the music industry, including why authenticity and obsessive focus are keys to success. Jonathan discusses the surprising hit 'Call Me Maybe,' his long-term partnership with Nickelback, and how he manages time amidst a chaotic schedule. He also emphasizes the importance of communication, providing advice on when artists should seek managers versus agents.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
A Psychiatrist's Stark Choice
- After a court-ordered psychiatric assessment, Jonathan met a psychiatrist who warned him he'd either die or change his life.
- That interaction triggered Jonathan to focus on school and rebuild his life away from drugs.
How 604 Started With Theory Of A Deadman
- Theory of a Deadman was the first band 604 signed, in 2001.
- Jonathan licensed them outside Canada and retained full ownership in Canada while building the label from that start.
Rescuing Forgotten Records
- Armchair Cynics were a band Jonathan believed in but who never reached expected commercial heights.
- He found unreleased demos and plans a 20th-anniversary release via a new Decades imprint.
