David Bowie’s entire music catalogue sold to Warner Music for $250 million

Late British rock star David Bowie's entire music catalogue for six decades was purchased by Warner Music Group (WGM) on Monday (3 January). The deal came after months of negotiations with David Bowie’s estate and it was sold for $250 million. 

Bowie’s entire music catalogue consists of  all songs from his 26 studio albums released during his lifetime, as well as the posthumous studio album release, “Toy”, that was released recently. This includes hits such as “Heroes”, “Let's Dance”, “Changes”, as well his 1981 collaboration with Queen “Under Pressure". 

“This isn’t merely a catalogue, but a living, breathing collection of timeless songs that are as powerful and resonant today as they were when they were first written,” said WGM Co-Chair and Chief Operating Officer Carianne Marshall.

The deal also marks WGM’s complete acquisition of Bowie’s works as both a songwriter and recorded performer. It allows Warner Music to accrue income from royalties, as well as when music is licensed for use in films, TV and advertising.

Guy Moot, chief executive of the publishing arm of WGM known as Warner Chappell Music (WCM), said they are “immensely proud”, as Bowie’s music has changed the course of modern music forever. 

“All of us at Warner Chappell are immensely proud that David Bowie estate has chosen us to be the caretakers of one of the most groundbreaking, influential and enduring catalogues in music history,” Moot stated.