604 Records Presents: Verses

What was it like building a band in Western Canada before streaming, before social media, and before anyone outside your city knew your name? In this episode of Verses, Jonathan Simkin sits down with 64 Funnycars, one of Victoria's underground power-pop bands from the late 80s, to talk about the realities of building a music career in Canada during a completely different era. They share stories about: Recording a full album in just 36 hours Touring Western Canada with almost no infrastructure Playing legendary venues like Harpo's Campus radio shaping the success of indie bands The chaos of booking DIY tours before the internet Why some bands chose not to chase fame And much more! This episode is available in video form on YouTube. If you enjoy local music conversation - hit subscribe! Thanks for watching. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Kelsey Hamilton sits down with Kevvy Maher who directed her debut comedy special to talk through it as well as a whole bunch of other nonsense. We learn why a lime scooter, then a blooper reel was the only thing that mattered for the special, her mother's obsession with Nate Go Wild the mysterious animal videographer, and why she has the best teeth in the game. Likes/comments/shares help us out big time so please do! The podcast is also available in audio form wherever you get them. Subscribe for more musician/comedian interviews from 604 Records/Light Organ Records/Comedy Here Often. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Jins join Dave Genn on Verses for a chaotic conversation covering their new record, early DIY shows, and their upcoming European tour. From cassette-era gigs in questionable venues to planning a full overseas run, the band commits to 25 minutes of pure sillyness as Dave regrets his choice of a Monday night. The episode is out now in video form on YouTube. Subscribe to Verses for regular artist on artist interviews and really sophisticated conversations like this one! #TheJins #DaveGenn #VersesPodcast #IndieRock #MusicPodcast #BandInterview #NewMusic #TourLife Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sister bands Fionn and Vox Rea join the podcast to talk about growing up in the Vancouver music scene, busking at Granville Island as teenagers, and how the some of the weird experiences there shaped their careers. Topics include: Busking at Granville Island Pressure around age in the music industry The value of long-term artistic pursuits Why the Vancouver music scene is slowly becoming cool How a heckle can completely derail you & much more! 🎧 Listen on all podcast platforms or watch on YouTube 📺 Subscribe for more artist interviews and industry stories and please leave a rating/comment they help us out big time! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Verses, Jonathan Simkin sits down with Robyn Ottolini for a candid conversation about going viral with "F-150," signing a major deal, walking away from the industry machine, and rebuilding her career on her own terms. Robyn shares her journey from growing up in Uxbridge, Ontario to landing a bidding war, signing with Warner Music Nashville, and learning the realities of major-label life. She opens up about creative freedom, radio power, independence, and why she chose a boutique path over industry control. They also dive into: How Dallas Smith first discovered her The viral rise of "F-150" Navigating Nashville and label politics Her Disney cover of "I Won't Say I'm In Love" from Hercules Writing from real life experiences Why authenticity matters more than trends Her upcoming debut album and "Growing Down" era From hometown stories to industry survival, this episode reveals what it really takes to build a sustainable music career today. 🎧 Listen on all podcast platforms or watch on YouTube 📺 Subscribe for more artist interviews and industry stories and please leave a rating/comment they help us out big time! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this special episode of Verses, Jonathan Simkin sits down with Payton Adler — frontman of Floorplan — to discuss their debut self-titled EP, creative struggles, and building a loyal fanbase. Payton opens up about writing from personal lows, performing with emotional intensity, and what it means to release music through 604 Records. This episode connects to the upcoming film Sweetness, with actor Herman Tømmeraas appearing in character. Topics include: – Floorplan's new EP (out March 6) – The single "Payback" – Writing about anxiety and relationships – Fan culture and touring – Influences like My Chemical Romance – Performing as emotional release 🎧 Listen on all podcast platforms 📌 Like, comment, share, and save #VersesPodcast #604Records #SweetnessFilm #IndieRock #MusicInterview #NewMusic #CanadianMusic #FilmMusic Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Fake Shark frontman Kevvy Maher joins Jonathan Simkin to talk about making ambitious albums, working with Kool Keith, writing on tour, and building a long-term career outside the major label system. The pair also devise a genius strategy to make 0.00006% of a penny by streaming their own songs and lots of other smart people talk. The full episode is available in video form on Youtube. Likes/comments/reviews all help us out big time. Thank you for listening! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nick and Ally from Sleepy Gonzales join their project manager Joseph for a candid conversation about their new music, creative process, and wildest band stories. They open up about getting in trouble for their "murdery" music videos, Nick's passion for low-level pro wrestling, and how touring shaped their perspective on collaboration and authenticity. From songwriting dynamics to the evolution of their sound, this episode offers a raw and funny look inside one of Vancouver's most original indie acts. If you love honest music talk, creative chaos, and behind-the-scenes insights from Canadian artists — hit play. Chapters 00:00 Intro 01:29 The Completely Random Formation of the Band 07:10 Pro Wrestling Dreams Distracting from the Music 09:47 Why Touring is the Best Experience of their Life 13:55 The New Variation in their Sound 20:09 Visual Storytelling & 'Murdery' Music Videos 25:14 Themes and Messages in Their Music Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Kenn and Dave dive deep with Jonathan Simkin into the evolving music industry, exploring the challenges of staying relevant in a fast-changing digital world. They look ahead to the new content coming from Armchair Cynics, insights into the effort to launch the band in the 2000s, and why there is a growing and niche fanbase building for them and other classic rock bands. Hear candid & funny stories and insights from two seasoned musicians navigating today's landscape. #MusicIndustry #ArmchairCynics #Podcast #ClassicRock #AltRock Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Chase The Bear & Danny Craig of Rock Is Dead sit down with Jonathan Simkin to chat through the band's origin story, adapting to the way music is consumed now, and where Rock music is going now. The band also talk influences from Chad Kroeger to Beethoven & Paganini, and exchange stories with Jonathan and Danny about some of the biggest songs and artists in history. The full ep is also available wherever you get your audio podcasts! Check out the Verses social channels for more: https://www.instagram.com/verses.604/ & https://www.tiktok.com/@verses.604 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jonathan Simkin of 604 Records sits down with country artist Mitch Zorn to talk about the booming Kelowna music scene, the excitement of signing to a label, and how radio, streaming & viral moments impact artists today. Mitch shares thoughts on his new EP, staying authentic in the digital age, and why AI should enhance—not replace—creativity In this episode they explore: Kelowna's vibrant music scene The emotional ride of signing a record deal How streaming and radio shape artist careers today The thrill (and reality) of viral moments Mitch's new EP & upcoming tour plans The weirdness of AI in music right now 🤖 Reflections on live shows, memorable moments & big dreams Subscribe for more behind the scenes interviews with Canada's emerging artists. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Charlie Kerr of Hotel Mira sits down with Freeze The Fall to talk about the journey from local Kelowna music scenes to creating technically complex, emotionally powerful music. They break down songwriting processes, unexpected influences, and how technicality and creativity collide in the studio. The conversation dives into: How Freeze The Fall members met and started making music together. The balance between melody, technical complexity, and collaborative songwriting. Inspiration from unexpected sources like folklore, ethereal vibes, and contrasting musical styles. Building a fanbase through live shows and the YouTube reactor community. Upcoming concept albums, interactive storytelling, and the joys of creating immersive music experiences. This episode is full of insight on collaboration, originality, and connecting with an audience. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Armchair Cynics sit down with Jonathan to revisit a wild chapter of Canadian alt-rock: the Killing the Romance era, the story behind "Coal Mine," why "Starting Today" still hits, and the hard drive discovery that unearthed unreleased demos. They break down recording with Dave Genn, sessions with Chad Kroeger & Joey Moi at Mountain View, mixes by Mike Fraser, and why the band passed on a Theory of a Deadman tour. They also dive into AI video upscaling (restoring "A Blaze," "Coal Mine," and "Bang" from old MuchMusic sources), Victoria, BC music scene of the 2000s, and reuniting at 604's studio on the legendary Little Mountain Sound console. Plus: life after the band—production, coral farming (Beyond the Reef), and an AC/DC cover band—then back together to record again. 🎧 Listen to Verses on all audio platforms. 📺 Watch the newly upscaled videos soon and follow for 604 Decades releases. Timestamps: 0:12 - Intro 1:38 - How it went for the Armchair Cynics 4:28 - How 604 discovered the band (the Victoria connection) 10:35 - AI upscaling + MuchMusic archives: restoring "A Blaze," "Coal Mine," "Bang" 20:28 - The timing in their lives for committing to music 23:35 - Working with Dave Genn, Chad Kroeger & Joey Moi (Mountain View) Mixes by Mike Fraser; studio gear & Little Mountain console 27:28 - Saying no to a Theory of a Deadman tour—what changed 28:47 - Why the island is a weird place 30:22 - Life after the band 36:54 - Reuniting at 604, vinyl ideas & the 604 Decades plan Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

After six months without speaking due to a personal and professional dispute, Jonathan Simkin (604 Records founder, music lawyer, and manager) and Andrew Hyatt (award-winning Canadian country artist) reunite for the first time — on Verses. This is more than a standard music industry podcast episode. It's a raw, unfiltered, and often funny conversation between two major voices in the Canadian music scene with a complicated history. They open up about what caused their falling out, how they've changed, and where their relationship — and the industry — is headed. Along the way, Jonathan and Andrew share behind-the-scenes music business stories, lessons learned from decades in the industry, and personal insights into songwriting, divorce, politics, and the realities of navigating both friendship and career in music. If you're into Canadian music industry stories, artist-manager dynamics, music business conflicts, and authentic artist interviews, this reunion episode delivers it all. 🎧 Available now on YouTube & wherever you get your podcasts. Timestamps: 0:12 – Introduction to the episode & the dispute 14:58 – Jonathan's career as a lawyer & how it shapes conflict resolution today 22:32 – The tweet that landed Jonathan in hot water 25:50 – Andrew on writing music about divorce & fan reactions 44:02 – Political inspiration behind Andrew's new music 57:57 – Jonathan's backstage joke that rattles musicians 59:52 – Why music award shows aren't as great as they seem #VersesPodcast #JonathanSimkin #AndrewHyatt #MusicIndustryStories #CanadianMusic #BehindTheScenesMusic #ArtistInterview #MusicBusiness #MusicReunion #604Records #CountryMusic #ArtistManagerRelationship #MusicIndustryPodcast #CanadianCountryMusic Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jonathan Simkin sits down with Dave Benedict (Default) and Brett & Nolan from The Vidos to talk new music, their upcoming tour, and the lessons learned from years in the music industry. From high school band days to navigating record labels, the conversation covers authenticity in songwriting, the urgency of career goals, and the bonds that keep musicians going. Plus—stories about hockey, unexpected inspirations, and why long-lasting industry friendships are rare treasures. #TheVidos #DaveBenedict #VersesPodcast #DefaultBand #CanadianMusic #RockMusic #MusicPodcast #TourLife #Songwriting #BehindTheScenesMusic Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jonathan Simkin (604 Records) sits down with Nikhil Dwivedi from EYP Creations to discuss the rise of Punjabi music on the global stage, the art of artist management, digital music trends, and how EYP is supporting emerging talent through projects like Your Debut Canada. Learn why perfecting your craft matters more than networking—and why the future of Canadian music looks so bright. The pair discuss: The incredible global rise of Punjabi music 🌍 The challenges and strategies behind artist management & branding How digital platforms, streaming, and satellite radio are reshaping the industry Supporting emerging artists through initiatives like Your Debut Canada Why artists should focus on perfecting their craft over chasing connections Work-life balance while building a music business with family The future of music in Canada and beyond 🇨🇦 The full episode is also available on YouTube. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Chevy Beaulieu joins 604 Records President Jonathan Simkin on Verses to discuss his journey as a Métis and First Nations country artist. From his musical roots to his challenges balancing a day job and a rising music career, Chevy's path is one of resilience. Learn about his songwriting process, the importance of mental health, and his aspirations for the future. Don't miss this deep dive into the life of a rising star in the country music scene. Like what you heard? Let us know! Remember 🤞 to like & subscribe! Find full video episodes and everything else HERE: https://ffm.bio/verses604 Chapters 03:08 Cultural Heritage and Family Background 06:05 Musical Roots and Early Influences 09:02 The Journey to 604 Records 11:57 Showcase Experience and Performance Insights 14:52 Record Label Experience and Charting Success 17:46 Songwriting Process and Authenticity in Music 21:09 Balancing Music Career and Day Job 24:04 Mental Health and Songwriting as Expression 26:31 Looking Ahead: Future Aspirations and Juno Week Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Chevy Beaulieu joins 604 Records President Jonathan Simkin on Verses to discuss his journey as a Métis and First Nations country artist. From his musical roots to his challenges balancing a day job and a rising music career, Chevy's path is one of resilience. Learn about his songwriting process, the importance of mental health, and his aspirations for the future. Don't miss this deep dive into the life of a rising star in the country music scene. Like what you heard? Let us know! Remember 🤞 to like & subscribe! Find full video episodes and everything else HERE: https://ffm.bio/verses604 Chapters 03:08 Cultural Heritage and Family Background 06:05 Musical Roots and Early Influences 09:02 The Journey to 604 Records 11:57 Showcase Experience and Performance Insights 14:52 Record Label Experience and Charting Success 17:46 Songwriting Process and Authenticity in Music 21:09 Balancing Music Career and Day Job 24:04 Mental Health and Songwriting as Expression 26:31 Looking Ahead: Future Aspirations and Juno Week

In this episode of 604 Records Presents: Verses, President of 604 Records Jonathan Simkin chats with song writer/producer Alan D Boyd , the creative force behind cult shoegaze band Movieland. The pair reminisce on Music now vs then, how Vancouver, London and other big cities have changed over time, and the launch of 604 Decades! Whether you're an aspiring musician or a fan of Alan, Jonathan, or 604 Records, this conversation is packed with funny stories, lessons, and a look behind the curtain of the music industry! 🎧 Listen to the full episode now and don't forget to subscribe for more artist interviews and behind-the-scenes looks at the music industry! Like what you heard? Let us know below! Remember 🤞 to like & subscribe! Find full video episodes and everything else HERE: https://ffm.bio/verses604 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of 604 Records Presents: Verses, President of 604 Records Jonathan Simkin chats with song writer/producer Alan D Boyd , the creative force behind cult shoegaze band Movieland. The pair reminisce on Music now vs then, how Vancouver, London and other big cities have changed over time, and the launch of 604 Decades! Whether you’re an aspiring musician or a fan of Alan, Jonathan, or 604 Records, this conversation is packed with funny stories, lessons, and a look behind the curtain of the music industry! 🎧 Listen to the full episode now and don’t forget to subscribe for more artist interviews and behind-the-scenes looks at the music industry! Like what you heard? Let us know below! Remember 🤞 to like & subscribe! Find full video episodes and everything else HERE: https://ffm.bio/verses604