Jonathan Simkin Launches “I Hate Simkin” Podcast!

After decades of working in Canada’s music industry, Jonathan Simkin — co-founder and president of 604 Records, and a force behind artists like Marianas Trench, Carly Rae Jepsen, Nickelback, Theory of a Deadman, and Coleman Hell — is finally stepping in front of the mic. His new podcast, “I Hate Simkin,” launches Friday, May 16th, and it’s just as outrageous, sharp, provocative and unfiltered as anyone who’s worked with him might expect.

“I Hate Simkin” will drop a new episode bi-weekly on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and everywhere you get your podcasts.

Simkin is turning the spotlight on himself in this no-holds-barred series, sitting down with the artists and collaborators who’ve helped build to shape the Canadian music business over the last quarter century.

The title “I Hate Simkin” is more than an inside joke — it’s a reference to the infamous t-shirt worn by Nickelback’s Mike Kroeger on red carpets. It speaks to the industry-wide love/hate relationship with Simkin: a man known for blunt honesty, ruthless feedback, and an unrelenting passion for music. The podcast exposes label politics, creative clashes, near-disasters, and the wild moments that never make it into official press releases.

Jonathan Simkin “I Hate Simkin” podcast logo

Season one guests include Mike Kroeger himself, legendary booking agent Ralph James, noted record and publishing executive Michael McCarty, and more, offering raw conversations and inside stories revealing the beauty and the ugliness of the music industry.

Episode one of the “I Hate Simkin” podcast sees Simkin having a candid conversation with Mike Kroeger, the bass player of Nickelback, a longtime law client of Jonathan. Together, they explore the polarizing nature of Simkin’s character in the music industry, the concept of hate on social media, and how age and success have mellowed their perspectives. The discussion also delves into the importance of authentic relationships and choosing unconventional paths in the music business. They delve into the complexities of success in the music industry, particularly focusing on Nickelback’s journey, and discuss the importance of humility, the changing dynamics of the industry, and the relationships between artists and their management.

The conversation also touches on public perception, the challenges of fame, and the recent resurgence of Nickelback’s popularity, highlighting the band’s gratitude for their journey and the impact they’ve had on their fans.

Those who love, or love to hate, Jonathan Simkin can proudly showcase it to the world with their very own “I Hate Simkin” Tee, now available on the 604 Records Shop here!