Reservoir Media Acquires Majority Stake in Miles Davis’ Music Catalog for Estimated $40-$60 Million
[Image: A striking,iconic photograph of Miles Davis playing his trumpet. Alt text: Miles davis, legendary jazz musician.]
In anticipation of what would have been Miles Davis‘ 100th birthday next year, his estate has partnered with Reservoir Media in a landmark deal, granting the self-reliant music rights company a 90% stake in Davis’ music publishing rights adn catalog income. The agreement, reported by The New York Times, also establishes shared control over Davis’ name and likeness. While the exact financial terms remain undisclosed, estimates suggest Reservoir paid between $40 and $60 million for the acquisition.
This move underscores the continued value of music catalogs, particularly those belonging to iconic artists like Davis, whose influence transcends generations.Reservoir Media, already a significant player in music rights management, administers the publishing catalogs of artists like Snoop Dogg and Joni Mitchell, and owns rights to songs by Sheryl Crow, the Isley brothers, and Sonny Rollins. They notably acquired Tommy Boy Music in 2021, a move that finally brought De La Soul’s complete discography to streaming services – a victory for fans and a testament to Reservoir’s ability to navigate complex rights issues.A Centennial Party in the Works
The acquisition isn’t just about financial investment; it’s about preserving and expanding Davis’ legacy. Reservoir has outlined ambitious plans to commemorate the centennial in 2026, including:
A Biopic: A highly anticipated film focusing on Davis’ passionate relationship with French singer Juliette Gréco, boasting producers like Mick Jagger.
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