Chad Kroeger wants you!

In April 2002 Nickelback front man Chad Kroeger teamed up with long time business associate and friend Jonathan Simkin to launch a new record label - the West Coast based 604 Records. This is not merely an example of another big-time music star capitalizing on his fame; Chad actually has a bit of experience in promoting and marketing bands. Before the formation of the 604 label Chad had a hand in helping fellow Vancouver natives Default get some major exposure catapulting that band to the top of the new rock charts in a matter of months. He co-wrote and produced many of the songs on Default's debut album, "The Fallout" and set up the band as the opening act for most of Nickelback's North American concert dates. In fact, it was because of this experience that Kroeger decided to form a label all his own. Since that time 604 has inked two international distribution deals; one with BC natives Theory of a Deadman and the other with Winnipeg based Sonic Bloom. Now the guys have put out the call -- they want to sign more bands. Heck, they may even want you!

Kroeger and Simkin are looking for more untapped talent to sign and promote and if you are a singer or belong to a band this may be the break you need. Since 604 Records is so new they are looking to rapidly expand their roster and encourage submissions from artists all over the world. In a press release announcing the formation of the label the stated goal of 604 Records is to, "seek out and develop undiscovered talent in the music world not only in North America, but globally." If the success of Theory is any indication of what these guys can do, spending the couple of bucks it will take to send in a demo package could yield the return of a lifetime. We took a few minutes to ask Chad and Jonathan what type of talent 604 Records is looking to sign and what it takes to get their attention; here is what they told us.

One thing Chad and Jonathan really want to press on potential acts is that 604 Records is not just a Canadian label. They urge would-be-clients not to be discouraged by the fact that the first two acts signed are Canadian bands or that 604 Records calls Vancouver, BC it's home base. They aren't only looking to promote maple leaf talent. It just so happens that there are content laws in Canada that require radio stations to ensure that at least 35% of their airplay time is given to Canadian artists. This makes it easier to break a new Canadian act on to the Canadian charts and then use that standing to promote the act in other parts of the world. If you are a Canadian band, great, but if not, 604 Records still would like to hear your demo. They have distribution deals set up with Universal Music in Canada and Roadrunner in the U.S. and U.K. so the label is definitely international.

On the subject of preferred music genre, despite the fact that Theory so obviously has the Nickelback sound Chad asserts that the label is not just looking for new hard rock acts. As Chad put it, "If you jam in your garage and make great noise, we want to hear your demo!" It doesn't matter if you are a solo act or part of a package, it doesn't matter if your sound is rap, R&B, metal, pop, hip hop, rock or country, it doesn't matter if you are young or old, all that matters to 604 Records is your talent. So if you think you have the makings of a real music icon send a demo package to 604 Records... send it now!!!

What should you include in your demo package? Here are some tips from 604 Records on what is most likely to impress. It goes without saying that you must send in a good quality, but not over synthesized, demo CD with no fewer than three songs and the more range the song selections show the better. Original music is much preferred over cover songs; they want to see what you have to offer as a package, not just a front. Include a brief, 1000 words max, typed outline of yourself or the band, the unique qualities you have to offer, the way you describe your sound, and a look at any musical background and/or training you may have. A decent picture of you or your group is a definite plus, it doesn't have to be professional but they don't want shots taken from your last party either. Remember, the picture gives a feel for how marketable a look you have so try not to make it too posed or contrived. Finally, add a short personal note including your contact information and a S.A.S.E. (stamped, self addressed envelope).

With so much going on at 604 Records Nickelback fans may be worrying that Chad won't be back in the studio anytime soon. Don't sweat it! Making music is still his first priority. Chad recorded a remake of the Elton John classic Saturday Night's Alright for Fighting with buddy Kid Rock, and word is that song will be featured on the Charlie's Angels 2 soundtrack. He is also collaborating with country diva Faith Hill on a set of songs that may appear on her next album. Fans can also rest assured that Nickelback will be rocking the charts with some new music sometime in 2003.

Think you're ready to play with the big kids? Send your demo package to the following address:



New Talent Submission
c/o 604 Records
101-1001 West Broadway
Vancouver, BC, Canada
V6H 4E4