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Kiss frontman to tout business savvy to Canadian music industry

Last Updated: Wednesday, January 14, 2009 | 5:21 PM ET

CBC News
Kiss member Gene Simmons is shown is shown in July 2008 during a pre-race news conference for the IndyCar Series auto race in Edmonton.Kiss member Gene Simmons is shown is shown in July 2008 during a pre-race news conference for the IndyCar Series auto race in Edmonton. (John Ulan/Canadian Press)

Gene Simmons, the Kiss frontman who is relaunching his record label in Canada, will be a keynote speaker at Canadian Music Week.

Canadian Music Week is an annual industry festival and celebration of Canadian music held in March in Toronto.

Simmons's relaunched Simmons Records is partnering with Universal Music Canada to produce Canadian talent. Simmons launched it last fall with a promise of commercial success for bands under his wing.

At Canadian Music Week, he will speak about his business endeavours, including his experiences as co-founder of Kiss, a band that has survived for 35 years.

Kiss is a juggernaut of licensing and merchandising, with over 3,000 products — from Kiss Visa cards to Kiss condoms.

Simmons's other endeavours include:

  • Reality TV series Gene Simmons Family Jewels, which he produces.
  • Cartoon show My Dad the Rock Star for Nelvana.
  • Ladies of the Night released through his own Simmons Books.
  • Marketing and branding for Indy Car Series through Simmons Comic Group and Simmons Abramson Marketing.
  • A clothing line.

Canadian Music Week runs March 11-14 and includes four awards shows and a music festival. Simmons is to speak March 12.

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