Sony buys 45,000-song Blackstone catalog in latest rights push
Sony Music Publishing has officially agreed to acquire the full music rights portfolio of Recognition Music Group, a catalog from Blackstone consisting of over 45,000 songs. While financial terms were not disclosed, Bloomberg previously reported the deal could be valued between $3.5 billion and $4 billion. This acquisition is Sony's third and largest from the former Hipgnosis portfolio and involves a partnership with Sony Music Group's investment venture with GIC and Sony Bank Inc.
Key Takeaways
- Sony Music Publishing is acquiring Recognition Music Group’s complete rights portfolio from Blackstone.
- The catalog includes more than 45,000 songs, including “Don’t Stop Believin’,” “Under the Bridge,” “Umbrella,” and “All I Want For Christmas Is You.”
- Financial terms were not disclosed, but Bloomberg previously reported a $3.5 billion to $4 billion valuation.
- The acquisition is being made with Sony Music Group’s investment venture with GIC, and Sony Bank Inc. is also participating.
- Sony has now made three acquisitions from the former Hipgnosis portfolio, including a February tranche reportedly worth over $200 million and the June 2025 purchase of Hipgnosis Songs Group.
Why It Matters
Sony is adding a large, high-value catalog to its publishing footprint, with over 45,000 songs now moving under its control once closing conditions are met. The deal extends Sony’s string of purchases from the former Hipgnosis assets, alongside the February tranche and the June 2025 Hipgnosis Songs Group acquisition. It also shows the structure Sony is using here: an acquisition backed by its investment venture with GIC, with Sony Bank Inc. participating. Watch for closing on the transaction and for any further disclosed asset sales out of Recognition after the catalog handoff.
Read full article at musicbusinessworldwide.com
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