David Bowie’s estate has sold the legendary singer’s extensive publishing catalogue to Warner Chappell Music.
The entire catalogue spans six decades of music (from 1968 to 2016) released during Bowie’s lifetime including classic songs such as ‘Heroes,’ ‘Changes,’ ‘Space Oddity,’ ‘Rebel Rebel,’ ‘Ziggy Stardust,’ and of course, his 1981 collaboration with Queen, ‘Under Pressure.’
Aside from the 26 studio albums that have already been put out, the deal that is believed to be worth $250 million will also include the unreleased posthumous album Toy which will consist of re-recorded versions of relatively obscure songs from the earlier part of Bowie’s career.
Warner Chappell Music’s co-chair and CEO Guy Moot told NBC News: “All of us at Warner Chappell are immensely proud that the David Bowie estate has chosen us to be the caretakers of one of the most groundbreaking, influential, and enduring catalogues in music history. These are not only extraordinary songs, but milestones that have changed the course of modern music forever.”
“Bowie’s vision and creative genius drove him to push the envelope, lyrically and musically — writing songs that challenged convention changed the conversation, and have become part of the canon of global culture. His work spanned massive pop hits and experimental adventures that have inspired millions of fans and countless innovators, not only in music, but across all the arts, fashion, and media. We are looking forward to tending his unparalleled body of songs with passion and care as we strive to build on the legacy of this most extraordinary human being.”
This is just one of many song catalogue acquisitions that have recently come to be, with Bruce Springsteen’s publishing rights going to Sony for a staggering $500 million, Paul Simon’s to the same label for $200 million, and Bob Dylan’s going to Universal for nearly $400 million.
Listen to Bowie's top tracks on Spotify to revisit all his classics.
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