Jonathan Simkin has been a prominent figure in the label and music law for decades. A former criminal and refugee lawyer, Simkin entered the music industry in the early ’90s and quickly became known for his uncanny ability to spot talent, signing acts like Nickelback and Marianas Trench. In 2001, he co-founded 604 Records with Chad Kroeger, building it into one of Canada’s top independent labels, home to multi-platinum artists including Carly Rae Jepsen — whose “Call Me Maybe” became one of the most-streamed Canadian songs ever with over a billion plays on Spotify. In the past year, Simkin launched the archival imprint 604 DECADES, signed breakout country artist Chevy Beaulieu, and celebrated 30 years with Nickelback as they were inducted into Canada’s Walk of Fame. He also expanded his comedy label, Comedy Here Often? into a full podcast network, where he launched his own I Hate Simkin podcast. This year, he advocated for neighbouring rights reform in an eye-opening guest column for Billboard Canada. He's unflinchingly honest, a proud sh-t disturber, something that is all too rare in the Canadian music industry.