In a major deal that shook the music industry, Roxy Music frontman Bryan Ferry sold a significant stake in his sound recording, publishing, and name, image, and likeness rights to Irving Azoff's Iconic Artists Group. The financial details of the transaction were not disclosed.
Ferry, a British musician and singer-songwriter, is best known for his distinctive voice and unique style. He co-founded Roxy Music in 1971, and the band went on to release several critically acclaimed albums and hits, such as "Love is the Drug" and "More Than This."
The sale of Ferry's music rights is a significant move in the music industry, where artists are increasingly looking for ways to monetize their catalogs and secure their financial future. According to Music Business Worldwide, the deal includes Ferry's share of the royalties from his solo career and his work with Roxy Music.
Iconic Artists Group, which is part of Azoff Music Management, represents a diverse roster of artists, including Maroon 5, Halsey, and Carole King. The company specializes in music rights management and has been active in acquiring music catalogs from various artists, including the late Tom Petty and the estate of Prince.
The sale of music rights has become a popular trend in the music industry in recent years, with artists such as Bob Dylan, Neil Young, and Paul McCartney selling stakes in their catalogs to various investors. The deals typically involve the sale of the artist's share of the royalties from their recordings, publishing, and other music-related income streams.
Music rights can be complex, and there are various types of rights that artists and copyright owners can hold. According to the Copyright Clearance Center, there are two main categories of music rights: performing rights and mechanical rights. Performing rights refer to the right to publicly perform a copyrighted musical work, while mechanical rights refer to the right to reproduce and distribute a copyrighted musical work.
Music rights societies, such as ASCAP, BMI, and SESAC, help administer and collect royalties for performing rights. However, the sale of music rights can be a complex process, and it's essential for artists to understand the implications of such deals and seek professional advice.
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