Canadian electronic music producer deadmau5 has sold his extensive music catalogue and that of his label, mau5trap, to Create Music Group in a $55 million deal, marking a major shift in the electronic music industry.

In a significant move within the electronic music industry, renowned producer and DJ deadmau5 (Joel Zimmerman) has sold his extensive music catalogue, along with that of his label mau5trap, to Create Music Group (CMG) in a deal valued at over $55 million.

The acquisition encompasses master recordings and publishing rights for more than 4,000 tracks, marking a notable shift in the management and monetisation of deadmau5’s and mau5trap’s musical assets.

Established in 2007, mau5trap has been instrumental in launching the careers of prominent electronic artists such as Skrillex, REZZ, and i_o. The label's innovative approach has significantly influenced the electronic music landscape over the past two decades. The partnership between deadmau5 and CMG, which has spanned nearly 20 years, has now evolved into this substantial acquisition.

Jonathan Strauss, co-founder and CEO of CMG, remarked: "When deadmau5 put on that helmet, he didn’t just create a brand, he sparked a movement." He further emphasised the responsibility CMG now holds in stewarding the legacy that has reshaped the industry.

This deal also includes the formation of a joint venture aimed at releasing future recordings from deadmau5 and mau5trap. CMG plans to implement a multi-platform strategy to maximise the value of the acquisition, which includes remastering and re-releasing select catalogue pieces, launching exclusive new content, and employing innovative marketing tactics to introduce the mau5trap legacy to new generations of fans.

The collaboration will explore licensing opportunities, brand partnerships, and focus on emerging media such as gaming, virtual reality, and live streaming to drive additional revenue streams.

The practice of artists selling their music catalogues has become increasingly prevalent in recent years. Such transactions allow artists to capitalise on the value of their existing works, providing immediate financial returns and enabling them to focus on new creative endeavours without the administrative responsibilities tied to their previous catalogues.

For companies like CMG, acquiring established catalogues offers a steady revenue stream through various channels, including streaming, licensing, and synchronisation in media.

A number of notable artists have recently sold their catalogues, including:

  • Bruce Springsteen – Sold his music catalogue to Sony Music Group in late 2021 for an estimated $500 million.
  • Bob Dylan – Transferred his songwriting catalogue to Universal Music Group in 2020 for a sum reported between $300 million and $400 million.
  • David Bowie – Posthumously, his estate sold his entire catalogue to Warner Chappell Music for approximately $250 million.
  • Neil Young – In 2021, sold a 50% stake in his catalogue to Hipgnosis Songs Fund for around $150 million.
  • Red Hot Chili Peppers – Sold their song catalogue to Hipgnosis Songs Fund in 2021 for a reported $140–$150 million.
  • Phil Collins and Genesis – In 2022, sold their music rights to Concord Music Group for approximately $300 million.
  • Sting – Sold his music catalogue to Universal Music Publishing Group in 2021 for an estimated $300 million.
  • Katy Perry – In 2023, sold her music rights to Litmus Music for around $225 million.
  • Justin Bieber – Sold his music catalogue to Hipgnosis Songs Fund in 2023 for approximately $200 million.

This trend reflects a broader shift in the music industry, where the monetisation of intellectual property has become a focal point for both artists and investors. With streaming platforms driving revenue and catalogue values increasing, selling music rights has become an attractive option for artists seeking financial security while allowing companies to leverage their music for long-term growth.

Deadmau5’s decision to sell his music catalogue and that of mau5trap to Create Music Group signifies a strategic move to amplify the reach and impact of their music. This partnership not only preserves the legacy of deadmau5 and mau5trap but also positions their extensive catalogue for continued growth and innovation in the evolving digital landscape.

With more artists opting to cash in on their musical assets, catalogue sales are set to remain a defining trend in the industry for years to come, which is all well and good for established artists but it does make us wonder where it leaves smaller or upcoming artists without huge groups behind them pushing their music.

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