NXNE NEXT LEVEL Panels

Location: The Theatre Centre (NXNE 2025 Official Headquarters) - 1115 Queen St West

Friday, June 13

Radio Killed the Radio Star

Time: 11am

Description: What is my radio strategy? Chances of getting played are slim - but indie artists are still motivated to try. With so many outlets these days to promote your music, why is Radio still one of the most talked about and the most desired by Indie artists? As playlists at commercial radio shrink and Radio stations being programmed directly from Head offices, how do you even get on the radar? Our panel of experts will walk you through the reality of Radio Airplay in 2025, the “Do’s and Don’t’s”, what’s still possible and some unique and simple strategies for success.

Speakers

Director of Business Development, PlayMPE
With a couple of decades of experience in the music, technology and artist development, Alen Vitasovic has helped shape how music reaches industry gatekeepers. At Play MPE, a global platform trusted by major and independent labels, promoters and artists for delivering new releases to radio and media, Alen brings a unique lens on both the evolution of music promotion and the persistent relevance of radio in the evolving and increasingly fragmented landscape. His background in product strategy, artist services and digital operations informs his passion for building tools that give artists a fighting chance in today’s crowded market.

Assistant Program Director / Music Director, Indie88
Michael Religa is a veteran music radio programmer with 25 years in the industry. His programming experience includes a variety of formats, including Top 40, Classic Hits, Rhythmic CHR, Alternative/Indie Rock and now Modern AC.
He’s also the recipient of the first ever “CMW Edge” award, recognizing the programmer who playlisted the most singles to chart Top 40 at any format.
Michael is currently the APD/Music Director of Indie88 Toronto.

Owner, Canvas Media
David Tysowski, owner of Canvas Media, is a University of Saskatchewan graduate with 30 years in the music industry. He spent over 12 years at Warner Music Canada in marketing roles across Saskatoon, Vancouver, and Toronto. In 2007, he joined Arts & Crafts as Director of National Promotion, handling campaigns in Canada and the U.S. for artists like Feist, Dan Mangan, and Broken Social Scene. In 2012, David launched Canvas Media, a Toronto-based radio promotion company, allowing him to work independently with a wide range of artists including The Lumineers, City and Colour, The Beaches, Royel Otis, Chvrches, and many more. Canvas Media marked its 13th anniversary in January 2025, continuing to support both emerging and established talent.

Senior Music Director, SiriusXM Canada
Siobhan Woodrow is a music director with 15 years of experience in radio, working across a wide range of genres—from country to South Asian music. She is currently the Senior Music Director at SiriusXM Canada, where she oversees 15 channels broadcast across North America.

AI - AI - Oh

Time: 12pm

Description: Generative AI (GAI) is everywhere. It's changing how music is made, distributed, and marketed. Is this good or bad for artists, the industry and fans? How can GAI help make business areas like marketing, audience analysis, and distribution more efficient? This panel will discuss ethical and practical issues around how GAI is used in music, and give examples of AI tools in use in the industry.

Speakers

Head of Cultural Policy Hub, OCAD
Kelly Wilhelm (she/her) is a consultant and strategist with over 25 years’ experience in policy and innovation across government, arts, media, creative industries, and the non-profit sector. She leads a portfolio of projects as an independent consultant and is a sought-after speaker and facilitator. Kelly is Adjunct Professor and Head of the Cultural Policy Hub at OCAD University, a national initiative to develop informed, inclusive, and integrated cultural policy in Canada. She serves on the Global Creative Economy Council, supported by the UK Creative Industries Policy Evidence Centre and the British Council. Her past roles include Chief of Staff to federal ministers, Chief Strategy Officer at the Canada Media Fund, and senior policy roles at Canadian Heritage and the Canada Council for the Arts.

Chief Technology Officer, Slaight Music
Barnaby Marshall is the Chief Technology Officer at Slaight Music, where he oversees digital investments and web properties. With over 25 years in media, he began in TV journalism before moving to digital in 1996, leading Shift Magazine’s interactive department for five years. In 2002, he joined the creative team behind Toronto’s Drake Hotel, contributing to its design and relaunch, later managing its entertainment venue. He consulted for Standard Broadcasting in 2006 and joined Slaight Music at its 2011 launch. Marshall has hired and led numerous creative teams and developed many websites. He’s also mentored at the Canadian Film Centre’s ideaBOOST accelerator, moderated and spoken on tech and music panels, and appeared on TV and radio as a media commentator.

Professor, TMU
Dr. Richard Lachman directs the Zone Learning network of incubators for Toronto Metropolitan University, is a Professor in the RTA School of Media, and serves as a Technology and Creative Consultant for entertainment and software-development projects. He is a Gemini and CNMA award winner, and a frequent media commentator on technology issues. Lachman completed his doctorate at UNE in Australia studying neural network recommendation engines, did his undergraduate work in Computer Science at MIT, and holds a Master’s degree from the MIT Media Lab’s “Interactive Cinema” group. He was part of a startup acquired by Mattel, ending as Lead Designer and Lead Engineer for the Petz software with over 3 million units shipped worldwide. His areas of research include technology ethics, creative AI, transmedia storytelling, digital documentaries, mixed realities, and collaborative design thinking. His book “Digital Wisdom: Rethinking Innovation in the Age of AI” is forthcoming Fall 2025.

Defiance of the Algorithm

Time: 1pm

Description: In today’s streaming-driven music economy, artists are reclaiming their independence by engaging fans directly—and getting paid for it. This panel explores emerging tools and technologies that empower musicians to monetize their art on their own terms. From fractional ownership of songs to exclusive merch drops and Patreon-style fan engagement, discover how creators are unlocking new, sustainable revenue streams without sacrificing ownership or control.

Speakers

Artist
Marvin Chan (Merv xx Gotti) is an award-winning Asian-Canadian artist known for his dream-pop project, Guitar Songs. His debut Guitar Songs EP (March 2024) led to a five-show SXSW debut. Its lead single, “Jiujitsu,” was named one of CBC’s Top 100 Canadian Songs of 2024, aired on over 21 CBC stations, and became the most syndicated Saskatchewan song in five years. The EP earned 500K+ Spotify streams and charted on Earshot for eight weeks. Merv has performed at SXSW, NXNE, and M for Montréal, and recently won Music Professional of the Year at the Saskatchewan Music Awards. A full-length album is upcoming.

Chief Product Officer, NEWM
Denny was recently named NEWM’s Chief Product Officer, responsible for overseeing the company's product strategy, from vision to execution, and leads the Product, Engineering, and Customer Support teams. He joined NEWM in the fall of 2023, facilitating the launch of two of NEWM’s web-based products, NEWM Studio and NEWM Marketplace. Prior to NEWM, he spent several years in product delivery management for the enterprise AI company, C3 AI, and in EY’s Analytics Consulting practice. Based in Detroit, MI, he graduated from Albion College with a BA in Economics & Management, and spent several years in the institution’s Music Performance program.

Artist - Altered By Mom
Gina Kennedy (she/they) is a Toronto-based musician and songwriter known for her sharp lyrics, genre-blending alt-rock sound, and fearless stage presence. As the frontwoman of the award-winning band Altered by Mom, she crafts songs that hit with both emotional honesty and an irresistible edge.
Altered by Mom is proudly independent so Gina handles the day to day like Social Media, Booking requests, and management duties. She not only pitches music to TV and commercials, she's also a Voice Actor, so whether you know it or not, you've likely heard her voice one way or another.

Head of Business Development, LyricFind
Winnipeg native Zack Werner has built a diverse career as an artist, producer, executive, lawyer, educator, and manager. He now leads business development at LyricFind and Rotor Videos. Zack was a judge on Canadian Idol for six seasons and also appeared on World Idol. In St. John’s, NL, he launched popular initiatives like SING NL and KIDZROCK NL. He previously led Venus Management and Venus Records, developing artists like esthero, Len, and Down With Webster. A former Capitol and MCA recording artist, he also practiced entertainment law, representing acts like Finger Eleven and Ron Sexsmith. Post-Idol, he founded Zack Werner’s Idol School, with students achieving success in music and TV. He holds degrees from the University of Minnesota and UBC Law.

Scorn in the USA

Time: 2pm

Description: Screw America, Finding Reliable Neighbours. We need better friends with high costs, tariffs, visas, and wait time. Time to find the real bridge to new fans, the bridge to Europe and Asia. Tensions between the US and Canada are at an all time high. Tariffs are being discussed and many have already been implemented in a world where the exchange rate and high VISA costs are discouraging for many bands looking to tour or do business in the US. Is it time, as a country and an industry, we focus our energy and promotion towards other places in the world like Europe, Asia or even South and Latin America. Panellists discuss how labels, managers or artists can skirt the US and put energy and focus on countries that want to do business with Canada.

Speakers

President and Co-Founder, Music Solutions
Sebastian Mair is a co-founder of Music Solutions and has been a key figure in the Asian music industry since moving from Toronto to Tokyo in 1996. Prior to launching the company, he worked as a Cultural Officer at the Embassy of Canada in Japan. Music Solutions specializes in brand partnerships and VIP packages for major artists touring Asia, with clients including Creativeman Productions, Ubisoft, Fujipacific Music, Live Nation Japan, and AEG Presents. Mair also works as a music supervisor for film and TV projects and curates music programming for brands like Starbucks, Hilton Hotels, Ritz-Carlton, and Bath & Body Works. He recently served as licensing supervisor for A Century Sound, a documentary on Tokyo’s 100-year history of music cafes known as ongaku kissa.

General Manager, Arts for Canadians Tomorrow Society (ACTS)
Michael, a Toronto native, has spent nearly a decade in the public arts and culture sector across Vancouver, Toronto, and Taiwan. He is the General Manager of the Arts for Canadians Tomorrow Society, overseeing production and artist management for Jade Music Fest in both Vancouver and Taipei. Since launching in 2022 and expanding to Taiwan in 2024, Jade Music Fest has become a vital platform for promoting Chinese-language and mother-tongue-based music in Canada and globally.

DJ, KISS FM
DJ Ace is a powerhouse in UK music, known for championing R&B and spotlighting the genre globally. With over 20 years at BBC Radio 1Xtra, he earned a Sony Gold Award and played a key role in R&B’s resurgence. In 2024, he joined Kiss FM to host its flagship R&B show, reaching 2.3 million listeners weekly. He co-founded The RecordBox/ERNB in 2015, supporting UK R&B artists. His work has earned him a 2025 Music Week Awards nomination. A three-time SXSW host, Ace remains a vital force, celebrating R&B’s roots while shaping its future on air and beyond.

B2B Networking Cafe

Time: 3pm

Description: Taking place on Friday June 13 at 3PM, the NXNE B2B Networking Café is set up as a café type setting with coffee and snacks to allow industry members both new and established to meet, network and most importantly learn from industry leaders who are in the roles of artist managers, agents, label representatives, producers and artists.

NXNE attendees can pre-book roundtable meetings which will last roughly 15 minutes to either get advice, learn best practices or to simply pick these Industry leaders brains, all in a casual relaxed environment while enjoy coffee and snacks.

The B2B Networking Café will be on a first come, first serve basis to interested applicants who sign up in advance, and on a case by case basis at the event if there is additional space available. This event allows unprecedented access to Industry leaders and is included as part of your admission to NXNE.

SIGN UP HERE

Participants

Artist Mentor, New Romantic Music
Linda Noelle Bush has over 30 years of experience in the Canadian music industry, beginning in A&R at Attic Music Group under Alexander Mair and Maestro Fresh Wes. She later joined Universal Music Publishing as Creative Manager/A&R, where she supported artists like K-OS and Sam Roberts. In 2004, she launched New Romantic, a management company and label with artists including controller.controller and The Organ.
Her work expanded into Film & TV, including roles as music supervisor and licensing manager. As Music Manager at WildBrain, she oversaw music rights for iconic family brands like Yo Gabba Gabba! and Teletubbies. Later, as VP of Artist and Label Services at Cadence Music Group, she led Fontana North distribution and worked with artists like Jeremy Dutcher and Lido Pimienta.
Today, Linda mentors emerging talent and teaches at Humber and Durham Colleges, sharing her industry insight and passion for helping artists build sustainable careers.

Publicist & Music Festival Programmer, Indie Week
Cameron Carpenter is a veteran of the Canadian music industry having held senior positions at Quality Records, MCA Records, BMG and Sony Music in A&R, Marketing, Artists Relations and International.
He was on the team that brought XM Satellite Radio to Canada and has worked at Indie Week and NXNE.
Cameron has also worked as a freelance journalist, artist manager and publicist and was twice awarded "Major Label Publicist" at the Canadian Music Industry Awards.

Recording Engineer
Nine-time JUNO winner Jay Dufour is one of the most in-demand mixers in Canada. In May 2025, he scored a #1 at Canadian Country radio with James Barker Band’s “You Didn’t Hear It From Me.” Earlier this year, he won his ninth JUNO for Sebastian Gaskin’s Brown Man. Past JUNO wins include work with July Talk, Donovan Woods, and Protest The Hero. Recent credits include The Reklaws, Tyler Shaw, SB19’s Josh Cullen and Stell, Shawn Hook, Aaron Goodvin, and Phillip Phillips. In 2024, he mixed Tyler Shaw’s #1 pop single “What Christmas Means To Me” and Jade Eagleson’s #1 Country hit “Telluride.” Jay’s unmatched versatility, relentless work ethic, and radio-ready mixes have made him a trusted name across Country, Rock, Pop, and R&B.

Director of Marketing & Business Development, Soundpays Corp
Paul Eastwood is an entrepreneur and an entertainment executive with extensive experience in brand and business development across the sectors of recorded music, apparel/sportswear, merchandising, sponsorship, music publishing, and entertainment technologies.
He is currently the Director of Marketing & Business Development at Soundpays Corp where he spearheads all business initiatives in the live music, sports, and entertainment industries, and oversees the company’s branding, content and communications.
Prior to joining Soundpays, Paul held positions with Anthem Entertainment, The Feldman Agency and Showtech Merchandising.
A long time ago in a galaxy far, far away … he was Vice President of Marketing & Promotion at Universal Music.

Lawyer, TOML
Sarah Falzon is a lawyer at Taylor Oballa Murray Leyland LLP. She has been practicing music and entertainment law since 2015, primarily working with and representing artists and music services companies navigating through varying stages of their careers and businesses.
Sarah is a graduate of McMaster University (Hons. B.Sc. in Mathematics & Statistics) and Osgoode Hall Law School (J.D.). She has been a guest speaker for various events and organizations, including Women In Music Canada, Canadian Music Week, Canada’s Music Incubator, Honey Jam, Law in Action Within Schools, and Toronto Metropolitan University.
Sarah is passionate about helping artists and arts workers, and about corporate social responsibility in these spaces.

President, CCS Rights Management
In 2011, Jodie founded CCS Rights Management with a vision of a dynamic global independent company that puts artists and songwriters first, providing individualized attention and a full range of services to maximize income, elevate careers, and protect the value of their works.
Under his leadership, CCS has experienced continuous growth and significantly expanded its global reach and scope of services provided to a growing roster of award-winning and up-and-coming songwriters, artists, musicians, producers, and labels, as well as major corporate brands and other rights holders.

President, Guild of Music Supervisors Canada
As Head of Music Supervision + Licensing at Vapor Music and Long Division, Heather balances her right brain creativity with extensive left brain attention to detail, allowing for a seamless licensing process from concept to contract to cue sheet. Her credits span television series, feature films, TV movies, advertising campaigns and video games that have been seen worldwide, including the globally trending series BET for Netflix (an adaptation of the Japanese manga Kakegurui), season 2 of Mistletoe Murders for Hallmark, and feature films Hell of a Summer (directed by Stranger Things’s Finn Wolfhard and Billy Bryk), Young Werther (dir. José Lourenço), Paying For It (dir. Sook-Yin Lee) and Drive Back Home (dir. Michael Clowater). She is a multi-Canadian Sync Award winner, and led in nominations at the 2024 awards alongside the Vapor Music/Long Division team.
Heather currently serves as the President of the Guild of Music Supervisors, Canada.

Marketing Strategist, 604 Records
Based in Toronto, Natasha Gorey is the Marketing Strategist at 604 and Light Organ Records, where she helps artists bring their vision to life and connect with fans in authentic, meaningful ways. She holds a B.A. in Mass Communications from Carleton University and a Postgraduate Certificate in Music Business from Humber College, but her most valuable lessons came from hands-on industry experience. Before joining 604, Natasha spent four years as a Music Publicist at Looters PR, specializing in metal, emo, and punk rock, and later worked as National Publicity and Marketing Manager at RPMpromotion, running everything from press campaigns to album launches.
Originally from Florenceville-Bristol, NB—The French Fry Capital of the World—Natasha got her start in marketing at Carleton University and as a Tourism Assistant in her hometown. Whether she’s building a rollout strategy or brainstorming TikTok ideas, Natasha is all about storytelling, authenticity, and helping artists grow without losing themselves.

CEO, BCMG Recordings
Mike Krompass (Mike K) is a multi-platinum producer, songwriter, mixer, engineer, multi-instrumentalist, and music executive. With over 800 million streams and 12 billion views, he ranks among the top 1% of producers and songwriters globally. As CEO of BCMG Recordings Inc., he holds the exclusive Canadian license to Extreme Music/Sony ATV, which includes works by Hans Zimmer, Snoop Dogg, Timbaland, and more—including the Death Row Records catalogue.
Mike began as a top session/touring guitarist in Toronto before moving to Nashville and Los Angeles. With his wife Anissa Krompass, BCMG operates as a full-service label and publishing company distributed by Sony Music’s The Orchard.
His credits span artists like Meghan Trainor, Smash Mouth, Fifth Harmony, Kelsea Ballerini, and Steven Tyler. His music has appeared in major films and TV globally. He’s also performed live with Nelly Furtado and others on SNL, Letterman, and The Tonight Show.

Producer & Owner, Comamnd-S Media
Warne Livesey is an award-winning music producer, mixer, songwriter, multi-instrumentalist, and arranger with over 30 years of experience. Originally from the UK, he now resides in Toronto, Canada, where he operates his studio, The Command Centre. Livesey began his career in London during the punk and new wave era, eventually moving into engineering and production with early work for The Specials and Foetus. He gained recognition producing The The’s Infected and Mindbomb, then found international success with Midnight Oil's Diesel and Dust and Blue Sky Mining. Other credits include Deacon Blue, House of Love, Jesus Jones, Paul Young, and Mark Hollis. In 1997, he began a long-term collaboration with the Matthew Good Band, producing multiple platinum-selling albums in Canada. Now a Canadian resident, Livesey continues to work with artists worldwide, producing, mixing, and co-writing from his Toronto-based studio. His work has contributed to over 15 million in global sales.

Senior PR Consultant, VLPR
Victoria Lord is a seasoned expert in media relations, strategy, and marketing communications, known for leading high-profile campaigns for some of the world’s most iconic talents. Starting her career at Universal Music Group, she has built a strong reputation across the entertainment, music, arts, tourism, and hospitality sectors. For over 30 years, she’s worked with major names like Dolly Parton, Jim Belushi, and the late Gordon Lightfoot. In 2002, she founded her own public relations agency, representing clients such as Sony Music Canada, Massey Hall, and AEG Live. She has supported the Canadian Federation of Musicians, the Songwriters Association of Canada, and initiatives like Music Monday. Her work extends to Oscar-winner Rodriguez and tours for Van Morrison and Andrea Bocelli, as well as speakers like Bill Clinton, John Cleese, and Neil deGrasse Tyson. Victoria serves on the Canadian Live Music Association board and FACTOR’s Diversity Committee, and frequently mentors students through speaking engagements.

Performance Coach
Luther Mallory is a renowned Artist Performance Coach, Keynote Speaker, and Music Artist. He specializes in teaching stage presence to performing artists and business professionals by helping them break through psychological barriers to access their most fearless, confident selves. After spending 10 years touring in a band—playing 1,000 shows across North America and living out of a van in Canadian winters—Luther developed powerful methods to manage pressure, nerves, and self-judgment on stage. He began sharing these tools with salespeople, executives, and high-achievers, helping them transform how they perform in both their careers and lives. Luther is the Performance Coach for two of Canada’s top music development programs: the JUNO Masterclass and CMI’s Artist Entrepreneur programs in Toronto and Calgary. Over the past decade, he has coached more than 1,000 artists, including JUNO Award and Polaris Prize winners, major label acts, and over 50 artists who have surpassed one million Spotify streams.

Program Administrator, FACTOR
The Foundation Assisting Canadian Talent on Recordings – FACTOR – is a private, non-profit organization dedicated to providing investment support toward the career development of Canadian artists, entrepreneurs, and organizations to produce and promote a diversity of Canadian music in a world of choice, be competitive at home and abroad, and to contribute to Canada’s creative economy. Funding for our programs is contributed by the Department of Canadian Heritage’s Canada Music Fund and from Canada’s private radio broadcasters.

Co-Founder/President, Midnight Agency
A stalwart in the Canadian music industry, Grant embodies a profound connection to music as both an award-winning artist and agent. His musical journey commenced on stage as the dynamic frontman and DJ of the electrifying Moses Mayes. After a decade of captivating performances, he seamlessly transitioned behind the scenes to become a music agent and he’s never looked back.
With 12 enriching years at Paquin Artists Agency, Grant curated a distinctive roster of live and electronic acts before taking a bold step in 2020 to co-found Midnight Agency. Under the Midnight banner, he represents award-winning clients in Canada, the USA, Australia, and New Zealand.
In a testament to his unwavering dedication, Grant was honored as the 2023 Canadian Live Music Association's Agent of the Year, solidifying his status as one of the most influential agents in the industry.

Label and Managment, MDM Recordings
More info to come

Speakers

Label and Management, Gypsy Soul Music
More info to come

Saturday, June 14

Barely Managing

Time: 11am

Description: When do I need a manager? Easy, When you need one. You are an Indie Artist, you have played the gigs, made the record and reached the point where you don’t feel you can go any further without some help. You think you need a manager to help you break through. But how do you find a manager? Maybe all you need is some help. This panel will discuss when you need a manager, how you find one, and/or how you identify what you really need?

Speakers

Head, Joe D’Ambrosio Management
Joe D’Ambrosio, a 44-year entertainment industry veteran, heads Joe D’Ambrosio Management, Inc. (JDMI), which represents top behind-the-glass talent including Grammy-winning producers Tony Visconti, Hugh Padgham, Kevin Killen, and Jay Newland, mixers Joe Zook and Jay Dufour, and arrangers Rob Mounsey and Larry Gold. Now in its 23rd year, JDMI manages leading producers, engineers, writers, and musicians. Joe is also managing partner of Audiosmith Digital Solutions, a nine-year-old recording services company based at the DiMenna Center for Classical Music. Audiosmith has recorded 38 Original Broadway Cast albums—such as Hadestown, Moulin Rouge, and Hello, Dolly!—and original scores for 46 films, including Joker, Little Women, and The Girl on the Train, plus songs from The Greatest Showman.

Manager/Consultant, CLK Creative Works
David "Click" Cox is a seasoned entertainment professional with over 25 years of experience in the music industry. Starting as an artist and concert promoter, he has worked across retail, radio, marketing, management, and A&R at Universal Music Canada. His company, CLK Creative Works, offers consulting services and is producing a documentary on King Reign. David teaches at The Remix Project and produced the acclaimed TV series Ultimate MC and the film The Onyx Experience, a tribute to Black rock artists. He is also the founder of Breaking Down Racial Barriers, an initiative to end anti-Black racism and promote equity in the industry. David’s enduring impact reflects his deep commitment to music, mentorship, and meaningful change in entertainment.

Manager, Starfish Entertainment
Susan de Cartier is the founder and president of Starfish Entertainment, a Toronto-based independent music management company known for its roster of acclaimed, internationally recognized artists. Starfish represents a distinguished lineup that includes multi-platinum selling acts Blue Rodeo and Jim Cuddy; JUNO Award winners The Sadies, Elliott BROOD, and Skydiggers; and Gemini Award winner Suzie Ungerleider. In recognition of her exceptional career and contributions to the industry, Susan was inducted into the Music Managers Honour Roll, an accolade celebrating excellence and leadership in artist management.

Self-Managed Artist
Densil McFarlane is the lead vocalist, guitarist, and principal songwriter of The OBGMs, a genre-pushing punk band based in Toronto. Known for their explosive live shows and commanding stage presence, The OBGMs have toured internationally and shared stages with acts like Sum 41, Billy Talent, and Death From Above 1979. Under Densil’s leadership, the band earned a Polaris Music Prize shortlisting and continues to grow a global fanbase through raw authenticity and relentless energy. In addition to performing, Densil is the founder of Burn Industry, a creative company focused on artist development and cultural impact.

Notes from the Edge: Mental Health in the Canadian Music Industry

Time: 12pm

Description: The passion and excitement of the music industry can often overshadow the significant mental health challenges faced by those within it. Shockingly, the Soundcheck Survey research indicates that over half of respondents have at some point felt life wasn't worth living, while a large majority experience chronic anxiety, consistent fatigue, and persistent sadness.

This vital conversation, led by Catherine Harrison, M. Psych., lead researcher and local musician, aims to bring these realities to the forefront. We'll explore the unique stressors contributing to these statistics – unpredictable schedules, financial pressures, self-doubt, and the relentless hustle – and discuss the critical importance of building a strong, supportive community.

Join us for an engaging discussion on how we can collectively increase awareness of mental health within the music industry, foster a culture of understanding and support, and advocate for the resources needed to ensure the well-being of all artists.

Speakers

M. of Psychology. Revelios [Mental Health Works]
Catherine Harrison is a Canadian musician, mental health strategist, leadership expert, certified executive coach, certified psychological safety auditor, author, and scholar. Catherine holds a master’s degree in psychology and has 35 years of corporate and entrepreneurial success. She is currently leading the first-ever Canadian national study (Soundcheck) to quantify and more fully understand the unique mental health challenges faced by all members of the industry. As a trusted advisor to national and international non-profit music organizations, she also serves as President of Revelios, helping organizations develop, integrate, measure, and sustain a meaningful balance of high performance with psychological safety.

DJ, KISS FM
Alex Exists is a Canadian alt-pop provocateur, songwriter, producer, and filmmaker from Toronto. He creates genre-blending anthems fusing neo-glam pomp, post-punk sneer, and classic pop with experimental edge. His beat-heavy, sharp sound explores rebellion, obsession, and desire with a darkly hopeful twist. His 2023 solo album Everybody’s Famous drew praise for its lush melodies and standout songwriting (Chris Buxton, Banger of the Day). A dynamic performer, Alex has shared stages with Ian Hunter, Jesus and Mary Chain, Gord Downie, and Mother Mother at venues like Toronto’s Mod Club and NYC’s Bowery Ballroom. He connects deeply with fans and is now crafting bold new music and visuals for 2025.

DEI - Maximizing Potential In Your Organization

Time: 1pm

Description: Diversity, Equity and Inclusion has come a long way in the last few years – at least by intention. But how much of it is virtue signalling and tokenism and how can we ensure there is genuine inclusion as opposed to insincere pandering. Join us as we discuss this topic with leaders who have experienced both and the work that they and their organizations are doing to create change in the industry.

Speakers

Executive Director, ADVANCE Music Canada
Keziah Myers is a national leader advocating for diversity and radical intentionality as drivers of business success. She was named Changemaker of the Year by The Globe and Mail (2022), Distinguished Leader by Women in Music Canada (2023), and featured on Billboard Canada’s Women in Music list. In 2025, she will be honoured by The Hollywood Reporter on its Women in Entertainment Power List.
Keziah has built a dynamic career in PR, marketing, royalties, copyright, and label operations, working with LU KALA, Maroon 5, OVO, Deborah Cox, XO, Jessie Reyez, Boi-1da, and others.
As Executive Director of ADVANCE, she partners with government and industry to champion Black professionals in Canada’s music business. She is also a professor, speaker, workshop facilitator, and sits on three boards, mentoring the next generation and driving impact.

Senior Director, EDI, MLSE
Angela White is Senior Director, Equity, Diversity & Inclusion at Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment, where she leads the Corporate EDI center of expertise. She drives the organization’s commitment to a diverse, equitable, and inclusive workplace. Angela and her team collaborate with stakeholders through a four-pronged strategy: integrating EDI into business KPIs, implementing inclusive policies, supporting employee inclusion groups, and building strategic partnerships with communities and experts.
Previously, Angela spent 18 years at RBC in various sales leadership and strategy roles, where she also championed diversity programs to disrupt bias and foster belonging.
Deeply committed to inclusion, Angela serves as an EDI advisor, consultant, and mentor—devoting her time to empowering under-represented youth and helping them navigate their career paths.

Demo Derby sponsored by Songwriters Association of Canada

Time: 2pm

Description: “Date with a Tape”, the legendary Songwriters Association of Canada program, returns this year for a special live event at NXNE in Toronto! This is your chance to get honest, constructive feedback on your original song from industry pros in a supportive, live setting. Writers of all levels welcome—bring your demo, bring your questions, and bring your passion. Spots are limited.

Producer/Songwriter
Denise De’ion is a Juno Award Winning Producer/Artist/Songwriter. She has worked with artists such as Boi1da, Haviah Mighty, Leila Dey, Phoenix Pagliacci and more. In addition to her work with other artists, she has also released her own musical projects (Peace of My Soul and Last Call). Her music has also been heard in episodes of Ginny and Georgia and Kim’s Convenience and through brand placements with Bacardi and Bulleit Whiskey.

Producer
Hill Kourkoutis is a JUNO Award-winning producer, songwriter, mixer, engineer, multi-instrumentalist, and director. She has worked with Aysanabee (JUNO-nominated Watin), Leela Gilday (JUNO-winning North Star Calling), Digging Roots (Zhawenim), SATE, Royal Wood, and Cassie Dasilva, among others. Her songs have charted across CBC, Alternative Rock, and Folk charts. She’s created music for children’s TV shows (Remy and Boo, Dino Ranch) and placements for Station 19, Degrassi, Cadillac, and more. As a performer, she’s played with The Weeknd and Serena Ryder, and appeared on CTV’s The Launch. She has directed videos for Mother Mother and Serena Ryder. In 2022, she became the first woman to win a JUNO for Recording Engineer of the Year. Hill works from her Toronto studio, The Lair.

President, CCS Rights Management
In 2011, Jodie founded CCS Rights Management with a vision of a dynamic global independent company that puts artists and songwriters first, providing individualized attention and a full range of services to maximize income, elevate careers, and protect the value of their works.
Under his leadership, CCS has experienced continuous growth and significantly expanded its global reach and scope of services provided to a growing roster of award-winning and up-and-coming songwriters, artists, musicians, producers, and labels, as well as major corporate brands and other rights holders.

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NXNE NEXT LEVEL Panels