Rob Pattee Honored Posthumously in BC Entertainment Hall of Fame

The late Rob Pattee, a prominent music agent from North Surrey, has been posthumously inducted into the 2025 BC Entertainment Hall of Fame. His contributions to the performing arts in British Columbia were recognized among six inductees in the Standing Ovations category. Pattee passed away in September 2024 from complications related to liver cancer, which was linked to a rare genetic condition known as Alpha 1 Antitrypsin Deficiency.

Pattee’s legacy in the music industry spans over four decades. He founded RPM Music Services and served as an artist manager, agent, talent buyer, and music educator. His significant impact on the careers of many artists earned him a reputation as a “star-maker.” Notably, Pattee played a crucial role in the early careers of acclaimed bands such as Nickelback and Daniel Powter.

Celebration of a Life in Music

In October 2024, Pattee was celebrated during a special event at the B.C. Country Music Hall of Fame in Mission. The “Celebration of Love” concert held at the Commodore Ballroom in Vancouver featured numerous artists with whom Pattee had collaborated, including Washboard Union and Wide Mouth Mason. He expressed his desire to celebrate his life while still alive, stating, “I’d rather do it now, have a celebration of life, rather than people waiting until I’m dead.”

Despite his health challenges, Pattee remained active in the music scene until his passing. In a candid interview earlier this year, he shared his struggles with shortness of breath, particularly during his years managing talent. “I would run up the stairs… and at the top of the stairs, I’d be playing with my Blackberry pretending I was texting because I didn’t want to be out of breath,” he recalled.

Recognizing the Class of 2025

The BC Entertainment Hall of Fame announced the full list of inductees on October 7, 2024. Alongside Rob Pattee, the Standing Ovations inductees include Ross Barrett (music), Danny Fillippone (producer), Jay Hamburger (theatre), Graham Lee (producer), and Sally Yeh (music). The 2025 StarWalk inductees comprise actor Will Sasso, singer/guitarist Tom Lavin, and co-founders of the Harbour Dance Centre, Pamela Quick Rosa and Danielle Clifford. Their names will be inscribed on “stars” along Granville Street in Vancouver.

These inductees will join over 300 previous honorees who have made significant contributions to British Columbia’s entertainment and cultural landscape. The Hall of Fame plans to invite fans and media to the presentation ceremonies, with further details to be announced closer to each event.

Pattee’s life and work in the music industry exemplified passion and dedication. His influence and the artists he nurtured will continue to resonate within the vibrant cultural fabric of British Columbia.