Billboard Canada Power Players returns for its second consecutive year, coinciding with a crucial period for the Canadian music industry. The Canadian Content regulations, a foundational principle that has fostered the growth of the domestic music scene, are currently under review for the first time in decades. The CRTC is actively conducting hearings on these regulations, which play a significant role in shaping the future of Canadian music. At the same time, the Online Streaming Act is being introduced to compel major international streaming platforms to contribute to CanCon in a manner akin to the previous regulations imposed on radio—however, companies like Spotify, Amazon, and Apple Music are vigorously opposing these changes.
These regulatory challenges cast a shadow over the music landscape, which has recently experienced both obstacles and triumphs. Notably, Canada has been recognized as the 8th largest music market worldwide by the IFPI, while Toronto has solidified its status as a premier live music market. This growth is evidenced by the successful ventures and investments in new music venues by notable companies like Live Nation Canada, MLSE, and Oak View Group, all of which feature prominently on the Power Players list.
At the forefront of this evolving landscape are the leading executives of Live Nation Canada: Erik Hoffman, Riley O’Connor, and Melissa Bubb-Clarke. Together, they are spearheading one of the most ambitious phases in the company’s history, earning them the prestigious No. 1 ranking on Billboard Canada Power Players 2025. As the largest entity in the Canadian music business, Live Nation is poised for substantial growth and is gearing up for a record-breaking summer filled with exciting events.
In the latest Billboard Canada cover story, the trio elaborates on their visionary plans, which include the highly anticipated opening of Rogers Stadium in Toronto. This venue is set to host a lineup of major acts such as Oasis, Coldplay, and BLACKPINK this summer, significantly increasing the number of stadium shows and elevating Toronto’s reputation as a top-tier concert destination.
Derek “Drex” Jancar of OVO Recognized with the Significant Impact Award
As part of the Billboard Canada Power Players event, Derek “Drex” Jancar achieved the top position in the Foundations category and received the Impact Award during a celebratory event held in Toronto on Wednesday, June 11. This accolade highlights his significant contributions to the Canadian music industry.
Back in the mid-2000s, Drex, along with collaborators Gavin Sheppard and Kehinde Bah, co-founded The Remix Project, a transformative community initiative that continues to leave a lasting mark on global culture. Currently, he is leading the charge as CEO of October’s Very Own (OVO), further solidifying his influence in the industry.
On the evening of June 11, Derrick Ross from Slaight Music presented Drex with the Impact Award during the Billboard Canada Power Players 2025 event. The award was accompanied by a donation to The Remix Project, underscoring the profound impact Drex has had on Canadian music and culture.
In a recent interview with Billboard Canada, Drex discussed the powerful influence of the Toronto community on his work and creative endeavors.
“It’s the nucleus of everything. It’s the thing you constantly come back to and think about: ‘Does this represent us, honestly and authentically?’” he reflected. “It’s the place where individuals hone their skills and pour their heart and soul into their chosen career paths. While we certainly think on a global scale, our roots are always grounded in that community. That’s our identity; it shapes us and is what distinguishes us from others.”
Drex fondly remembers the pivotal figures he met at OVO during his time with The Remix Project, including Oliver El-Khatib, Future The Prince, Niko Carino, and Drake. The unwavering dedication they exhibited in supporting Drake’s ascendant career in the late 2000s created a uniquely vibrant atmosphere in Toronto. At that time, Drex recalls, Drake was already a prominent figure within the city, but it was evident that he was on the brink of becoming an international sensation, all while remaining deeply connected to his local roots.
“You could witness the magic happening behind the scenes, and it was genuinely inspiring to see everyone come together to build such an incredible brand around him,” Drex reflects. “It was during this period that belief in the city’s talent and potential truly flourished, and you couldn’t help but think, ‘Anyone can achieve greatness from here. It’s happening right in front of us.’”
Launch of the First Canadian Edition of Managers to Watch
Recently, Billboard Canada proudly unveiled its inaugural Music Managers to Watch list, spotlighting the rising stars in music management.
Managers are often the unsung heroes of the music industry. These dedicated professionals are the driving force behind many of Canada’s most cherished artists. They negotiate deals, orchestrate strategic partnerships, and make pivotal decisions that influence the careers of musicians. While their names may not always be recognized by fans, their impact is crucial to the success and growth of Canadian artists. Their work is driven not by a desire for personal acclaim, but by a passion to realize artistic visions that can break barriers and resonate with millions of listeners.
The talented managers featured on this list have played essential roles in propelling some of the biggest artists to success, from touring stadiums to dazzling at the Met Gala or achieving gold certification without label support. Achieving such feats in Canada is particularly impressive, given the industry’s close-knit nature and the geographic challenges faced by artists seeking breakout success. In this feature, these managers generously share their insights and advice for newcomers to the business and those aspiring to help their artists reach a global audience.
The list showcases managers for notable artists such as Kaytranada, Jessie Reyez, Charlotte Cardin, Connor Price, among others.
The Beaches’ manager, Laurie Lee Boutet, was honored with the title of Manager of the Year. In a recent interview, she discussed her pivotal role in helping the Toronto band navigate their viral moment in 2023, transforming it into sustained momentum as they gear up for their first hometown arena tour this fall.
