Jonathan Simkin: “I’m Trying to Be Honest in a Dishonest Business”
heartdea13r w/ chr1stoph3r g0nda
Surprising Successes and Misses at 604 Records
Jonathan reflects on acts that underperformed, like Armchair Cynics, and unexpected global hits like Call Me Maybe.
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.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
Key Insights:
- Artist development died because labels only want "sure things" now
- Success comes from seeing opportunities others miss
- Authenticity sells better than any marketing strategy
- The music business rewards honesty more than politics
- Obsessive focus beats talent every time
Whether you're an aspiring musician, industry professional, or entrepreneur, Jonathan's unvarnished wisdom will change how you think about building a career in music.Guest: Jonathan Simkin (604 Records, Simkin Artist Management)📧 Contact HeartDea13r: info@v13.netJonathan Simkin:https://x.com/jonathansimkinhttps://www.instagram.com/604simkinheartdea13r:http://heartdea13r.comhttps://linktr.ee/heartdea13rhttps://www.instagram.com/HeartDea13rhttps://x.com/HeartDea13rhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/chrisgondaV13 Media Group:https://v13.nethttps://twitter.com/v13mediahttps://www.instagram.com/v13mediahttps://www.facebook.com/v13media https://soundcloud.com/v13mediaTimestamps:00:00 Introduction and Initial Greetings00:46 Personal Background and Career Journey04:55 Music Industry Insights and Experiences06:06 Honesty in the Music Business18:06 Transition to Law and Personal Struggles32:42 Reflecting on Career and Industry Changes38:31 Meeting Chad and the Early Days39:06 The Rise of Marianas Trench40:16 Adapting to the Music Industry41:55 Personal Life and Work Balance48:20 The Comedy Label Venture53:34 Reflections on the Music Industry58:29 Advice for Entrepreneurs and Artists#heartdea13r #JonathanSimkin #604Records #musicindustry #musicbusiness #nickelback #carlyraejepsen #entrepreneurship #musicmanagement
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