Joel Wertman

Music and Television industry veteran Joel Wertman has worked with a broad range of talent over the years: from Heart to the Goo Goo Dolls, to Bush during his time in the recording business. His vast experience in the world of television and film encompasses children’s series Mustard Pancakes, network television shows including Happy Days and Taxi, reality shows including Dance Moms and Honey Boo Boo, and films such as Sweet Sixteen and High Risk. 

Wertman’s career began in 1977 when he wrote and produced a song that became a top five record in Canada and Europe. Following his first major break, Wertman moved to Los Angeles to work for Mushroom Records as a staff producer and writer. During this time, he produced for musical acts such as Heart, Ian Matthews, and Doucette, while also working on the promotion side of the business with diverse acts including Kiss and Parliament Funkadelic, among others. 

Wertman had his first taste of television in the ‘80s when he served as music supervisor for Happy Days and Joanie Loves Chachi. This led to additional work as a music supervisor on made-for-television movies including The Patricia Neal Story and The Marilyn Monroe Story, as well as the series Friday the Thirteenth (Episodes 16-25). 

In 1989, Wertman entered into a joint venture deal with BMG records and became one of the early participants in the alternative music business. He found success with artists such as the Unloved, Monuments Galore, Parachute Club, Crash Test Dummies, and the Goo Goo Dolls. In 1993, Wertman founded Eureka Records and served as President and Owner where he signed and promoted various acts including Bush, No Doubt, Young MC, Tiffany, Corey Stevens, and Jimmy Cliff. In 1997, Wertman entered into a joint venture deal with Warner Music Group and became the General Manager of Sire Records. 

In 2004, Wertman connected with Courtney Campbell after seeing her perform in front of an audience of children. He was impressed with the children’s connection to her music and felt that every child should have the opportunity to experience Courtney Campbell and her world. Joel and Courtney created Mustard Pancakes together which went on to become an award-winning children’s program. As result of his Mustard Pancakes experience, Wertman became more involved with network television, principally cable realty programs including Dance Moms, Honey Boo Boo and Toddlers and Tiaras and The Steve Harvey Show to name a few. He continues to work in all mediums. 

Wertman is an Honors graduate of the University of Toronto. A native of Toronto, Canada, Wertman currently resides in Los Angeles.