MusicOntario & Music BC present: 
Building an Independent Record Label from Scratch Panel discussion, Q&A, and Industry Mixer
Thursday, March 26, 2026, 4:00pm - 7:30pm
Mills Hardware (95 King St. E, Hamilton, ON)

PANEL: 4:30PM
Independent record labels are often at the pulse of discovery when it comes to new music across the spectrum of genres! In an era of corporate homogenization, tech assimilation, and risk-aversion, we need indie labels more than ever: independent companies collaborate with artists and teams to pursue unique creative visions, campaigns, and content to build sustainable careers rooted in shared ethics and art.

Explore where and how to start and learn about what the day-to-day business looks like to grow a roster and power successful releases.

SPEAKERS:

ANDREA GUERNSEY (WAX RECORDS)

At the helm of artist promotion for one of Canada’s top indie labels, Wax Records (Universal/Virgin), Andrea Guernsey has spent 15+ years turning fresh Canadian talent into global success stories. From her time at Warner Music Canada, to her foray into music video production and live events, Andrea brings a deep understanding of how music connects with audiences. Industry connector, music matchmaker, and all-round champion of art with purpose, Andrea is on a lifelong mission to change the world through music. https://www.waxrecords.com/

JORDAN HOWARD (DIVISION ELEVEN MUSIC)

Jordan Howard is an artist manager and entrepreneur known for his work with emerging and established artists. He played a key role in developing The Glorious Sons, helping the band gain recognition and success early on including multiple #1 singles and a #1 album. Alongside award-winning songwriters and producers Lexie Jay, Marc Koecher and Jon Fedorsen, Jordan also recently launched label and management company Division Eleven Music Group which proudly represents artists such as POESY, FEATURETTE, Carlyn, Thea May, Family Man, Illegal Audio and Rhea.

In addition to his work at Division Eleven Jordan is also the co-founder and Chief Creative Officer of award-winning publishing and creative hub Daytripper Entertainment

With an impressive track record in A&R, Jordan has worked with Daytripper co-founder and President Jodie Ferneyhough for over a decade, contributing to the company’s remarkable growth. Under their leadership, the Daytripper roster has earned 8 Juno Awards, 8 CCMA Awards, 12 SOCAN Awards, 2 Grammy nominations, and numerous gold and platinum certifications.

Jordan is actively involved in the Canadian music industry as a member of Music Publishers Canada. He serves on the events committee and co-chairs the NxtGen task force, which provides support and mentorship to the next generation of music publishing executives through education, networking, and industry access. https://www.divisionelevenmusic.com/

KESI SMYTH (604 RECORDS)

Kesi Smyth has spent more than 20 years in Canada’s music industry, building her career through progressively senior roles at Simkin Artist Management and 604 Records, where she now serves as General Manager. With a background in marketing and human resources, she oversees operations across the 604 Label Group, while also leading professional development, people management, and initiatives that support an inclusive workplace. 

She notably served as Senior Project Manager for Carly Rae Jepsen during the global success of the Grammy-nominated hit “Call Me Maybe.” In that role, Kesi led strategic marketing, operations, and logistics for major appearances including the MuchMusic Video Awards, Billboard Music Awards, American Music Awards, and late-night television. 

Beyond her work at 604, Kesi is an active contributor to the broader industry, serving on the boards of FACTOR, Creative BC, the Canadian Starmaker Fund, and the Canadian Independent Music Association (CIMA). Through this work, she supports emerging talent and helps drive the continued growth of Canada’s independent music sector. https://www.604records.com/

SIMON MORTIMER-LAMB (NETTWERK)

Simon Mortimer-Lamb is Co-CEO of Nettwerk Music Group, where he helps lead the company’s global strategy, artist development, and long-term growth. With deep experience across the music business, he is known for combining creative vision with operational leadership, supporting artists and teams in building sustainable, forward-looking careers. He is passionate about innovation, strong partnerships, and evolving Nettwerk’s independent, artist-first approach in a rapidly changing industry. https://nettwerk.com