Canadian Music Industry Veteran Nima Talasaz Launches PacWest Artist Agency

There is a new player on the West Coast music agency scene.

Headed by veteran Canadian agent and promoter Nima Talasaz, the just-launched PacWest Artist Agency is a new company dedicated to helping artists build sustainable careers and connect with audiences nationwide.

PacWest made its debut earlier in September in Kelowna, B.C., coinciding with Country Music Week with a two-day launch celebration co-presented by Boots ‘N Boats festival. The event featured over 20 artists performing to capacity crowds.

The company arrives with a diverse roster that includes country, blues and rock artists. This list includes such notable names as Juno-winning blues and country singer-songwriter Crystal Shawanda, Chris Buck, Chase Kasner (former River Town Saints singer), platinum-selling pop-rockers Stereos, Delta Sweet (a project of Stereos’ frontman Patrick Kordyback), B.C. singer-songwriter Desmond Day and MCCMA Award-winning Manitoba country singer Jason Kirkness alongside emerging talents including Ontario country singer-songwriter Jessica Sole, Vancouver rock outfit Chase The Bear and country vocalist Paige Rutledge.

“I wanted to create an agency where every artist, no matter their size, feels like a priority,” says Talasaz. “Our goal isn’t just to book shows; it’s to help build careers and surround artists with a team that is fully invested in their growth.”

Talasaz has over 15 years of experience in the Canadian music industry under his belt. After starting as a promoter, venue buyer and manager of venues in Ontario and Alberta, he entered the agency world under the mentorship of his late father-in-law Rob Pattee (The Feldman Agency, RPM Music).

Talasaz then launched boutique agency Oceanside Entertainment with a strong west coast focus, later spending several years representing some major country acts at Sakamoto Agency.