Step back in time to 1984. It's a pivotal year in the history of Canadian television — it's the year Much Music was born. In this episode of Chatter that Matters, we look at its fascinating journey and Canadian content that competed with the best in the world.

Much Music was one of the first Canadian specialty channels; this ground-breaking concept emerged from the vision of two trailblazing individuals, Moses Znaimer and John Martin. Against all odds, with limited resources but boundless creativity, they created a cultural phenomenon that captured Canadians' hearts and took on the mighty MTV.

I recorded the show at 299 Queen Street West, where it all came together, and sat down with two of Much Music's iconic VJs, Erica Ehm and Rick Campanelli. Erica takes listeners on a nostalgic journey as she recounts the early days, what it was like to interview legendary figures such as Kurt Cobain, and how what she learned there enabled her to become a successful entrepreneur. Meanwhile, Rick shares his remarkable journey of securing his dream job through a contest and turning that win into his phenomenal broadcasting career.

Together, Erica and Rick transport us back to an era when Canadian content reigned supreme, and Much Music was at the forefront of this cultural revolution. Discover the untold stories, challenges, and sheer passion fuelled this channel's meteoric rise. A moment in time that will stand the test of time.

Alan Depencier, the CMO of RBC, joins the show and puts on a master class on what it takes to create content that engages your audience in an era of infinite choice and discerning tastes.

It is a beautiful story, a proud moment for Canadian creativity, and some outstanding takeaways.

Time Codes:

00:01. Tony's opening

00:02:16 Erica and Rick recall their time at Much Music. 00:06:33 Moses Znaimer reinvented media, inspired entrepreneurship, encouraged creativity. 00:08:33 Leaders in the corporate world should embody the flexibility, creativity, and fluidity exhibited by Moses, challenging the traditional thinking of "my way or the highway" embraced by old white men. Erica suggests that Tony should run more businesses or coach individuals, as he has demonstrated the ability to inspire and empower others in the past, much like Moses. 00:12:15 Erica Ehm and Rick Campanelli discuss their favorite interviews and an upcoming interactive tour based on the Documentary 299 Queen Street West. 00:18:25 Rick dreams of being like Erica and Steve, but it seems impossible. Enjoyed watching the interviews and VJ's behavior. 00:21:33 Rick - I wanted to win the contest tied to the movie "The Temp" in 1993. 00:24:10 Rick sits at Erica's desk. Never again. 00:28:15 The lesson: Find your own path in life, don't follow others. 00:32:03 Erica on her role with 299 Queen Street West. It was an nteresting experience meeting new and old people for a documentary. Initially skeptical, but became a consulting producer. The finished product exceeded expectations. 00:35:05 Rick flies to Austin to be there for the premier. . 00:37:30 Rick's humility and talent were exceptional, inspiring a lesson for everyone. In a world focused on validation and self-promotion, we should embrace humility. Canadians can produce world-class content, even with limited resources. 00:42:44 Alan Depencier joins the show. Music is returning after COVID, with live events sponsored by RBCX featuring renowned artists and supporting lesser-known ones. RBCX offers profile, support, and guidance for artists' careers. 00:44:03 Grateful for Alan's presence, future endeavours mentioned.