The StandStills
The Music Industry Arts (MIA) program at Fanshawe College in London, Ontario, has been a driving force in shaping Canada’s music industry, producing a wealth of successful musicians, producers, and industry professionals across genres. Among the notable artists and bands to emerge from this renowned program are the The Standstills, a hard rock duo that blends blues roots with a Western vibe.
Formed in 2010 while Jonny Fox (vocals/guitar) and Renée Couture (drums) were attending MIA, The Standstills quickly became known for their energetic performances and gritty sound. Over the years, they’ve released several well-received works, including Pushing Electric (2012), From the Devil's Porch (EP, 2015), Badlands (2018), and Shockwave (2022). Their performances in Kitchener, Ontario, are a testament to their active touring schedule, with highlights such as their performance at Centre in the Square during the OLPxIME Tour on October 31, 2016, and their opening for Three Days Grace on November 24, 2022 as part of the EXPLOSIONS Tour.
But The Standstills are just one example of MIA's influence. The program has produced numerous other prominent artists and bands, including:
Three Days Grace – A powerhouse in Canadian rock, known for multiple #1 hits.
Finger Eleven – A Juno-winning band behind hits like One Thing and Paralyzer.
The Tea Party – Known for their "Moroccan Roll," blending rock with Middle Eastern influences.
Deadmau5 – A global leader in electronic music and one of the most recognized producers in the world.
Shad – A Polaris Prize-winning rapper acclaimed for his socially conscious lyrics.
MIA’s alumni include celebrated singer-songwriters like Emm Gryner (former David Bowie collaborator) and Meghan Patrick, a Juno-winning country artist. The program has also contributed to the success of influential producers such as Jack Richardson (renowned for his work with The Guess Who) and Dan Brodbeck (Grammy-winning producer for The Cranberries).
The impact of MIA extends beyond musicians to include producers, engineers, and executives who have left a lasting mark on the global music scene. This combination of technical training, creative mentorship, and industry experience has helped to forge the next generation of music professionals who continue to shape the world’s sound.
Proud Fanshawe College MIA grad here. Loved seeing artists from the program roll through town.
