Sony Music Publishing has agreed to acquire the full music rights portfolio of Recognition Music Group from investment funds managed by Blackstone.
The deal was officially announced on Monday, May 11, and remains subject to standard closing conditions.
Although the financial details were not disclosed, Bloomberg previously reported that the acquisition could be valued between $3.5 billion and $4 billion.
The purchase is being carried out through a partnership between Sony Music Publishing and the investment platform recently launched by Sony Music Group alongside Singapore sovereign wealth fund GIC. Sony Bank Inc. is also participating in the transaction.
Under the agreement, Sony Music Publishing will take ownership of Recognition’s entire catalogue, which includes more than 45,000 songs. The collection features globally recognised hits such as Don’t Stop Believin’ by Journey, Single Ladies (Put a Ring on It) by Beyoncé, Umbrella by Rihanna, and All I Want for Christmas Is You by Mariah Carey.
Chairman of Sony Music Group, Rob Stringer, described the acquisition as historic.
“We are so proud and excited to represent this incredible catalogue of many of the greatest songs in pop history through this momentous acquisition,” he said.
Chairman and CEO of Sony Music Publishing, Jon Platt, said the company believes strongly in the lasting value of music.
“Our investment in this extraordinary catalog reflects our belief in the enduring power of great music – a belief that resonates deeply throughout Sony Music Group and is shared by our partners at GIC,” he stated.
“These timeless songs continue to define culture and inspire generations, and it is a privilege to champion their legacy as guardians of their next chapter.”
Qasim Abbas, Senior Managing Director and Head of Tactical Opportunities International at Blackstone, described the transaction as a major success for the investment firm.
“This transaction delivers a strong outcome for Blackstone and our investors and represents a further vote of confidence in music rights as an institutionally established asset class,” Abbas said.
“Sony is an exceptional home for these iconic catalogues, and we look forward to continuing to invest across the music sector through Recognition.”
Recognition Music Group CEO Ben Katovsky also reflected on the sale.
“It has been an honour to steward this phenomenal catalogue. The team and I are incredibly proud of what we have built at Recognition – protecting and enhancing the legacy and value of these songs while in our care,” he said.
“This is a milestone moment for Recognition and a testament to the enduring value of music.”
The acquisition becomes Sony’s largest purchase from the former Hipgnosis portfolio and adds to a growing list of major mergers and acquisitions reshaping the global music industry.
