Describe your background and industry experience, and explain how it will help you contribute to the SOCAN Board of Directors?
For over 25 years, I have worked day-to-day on a creative level with numerous writers, artists, and publishers, placing thousands of songs in film and television projects, as well as working closely with writers to help achieve their career objectives. I believe I bring a varied perspective and practical experience regarding the realities of the current music business and how it affects the creator on an individual level. Having held positions on the Board of Directors of NDN Talent Collective (bridging the gap between the Indigenous arts community and the mainstream industry), The Canadian Songwriters Hall of Fame, SOCAN Foundation, CARAS, and on the Programming Committee at the Canadian Music Publishers Association as well MPC’s Women in the Studio initiative allows me ongoing insight into the various challenges for creators as well as being able to offer assistance.Â
In your opinion, what issues will be most important to SOCAN members over the next three years
As the industry strives to get back to a “normal” place after the pandemic, it is important to have SOCAN’s portal transformed into a best-in-class platform for its members. With the new platform, it will help ensure seamless registrations of works, effortless claiming of concerts and be able to easily identify revenue streams. Timely responses to member inquiries can be guaranteed through the provision of educational resources to both the team and industry at large. In an era of increased AI technology, SOCAN must lead the charge in protecting the interests of original creators. Members must be assured that SOCAN is continuing their fight for equitable compensation from the digital music services, while maintaining a strong voice alongside industry partner organizations with the government as new copyright tariffs and laws are created.Â