Publishing Briefs: Zooey Deschanel Signs With Spirit, Tommy James Teams with Sony/ATV, BMG Chrysalis U.S. Buys Rights To ‘Khumba’
Spirit Music Grouphas signed a multi-year North American publishing administration deal with Zooey Deschanel which includes her back catalog and future works.
In addition to her songwriting contributions as one half of the duo She & Him, she has contributed works to films in which she has acted, including the theme songs to "Yes Man" and the TV show "The New Girl.'
More from Billboard
"Zooey is a true renaissance woman," said Spirit Music president/CEO Mark Friedin a statement. "Whether she's writing songs, singing, acting or producing, she is one of the most passionate, authentic artists of her generation. We're delighted to have an opportunity to work with Zooey in shining a light on her songs and introducing projects across music and media which will allow her to grow her craft and expand her creative palate."
— Tommy Jameshas signed an administration deal with Sony/ATV Musicto represent his music publishing for his Tommy James Songs catalog; as well as his post-1974 master recordings for synchronization.
EMI Music Publishing already handled the early part of James' publishing catalog so the new deal means that Sony/ATV represents all the singer's songs from 1062 through the present.
"I'm very excited about the new opportunities that this latest deal with Sony/ATV will open up for my music," says James said in a statement. "They are clearly the major player in music publishing and I'm thrilled with this expansion of our ongoing relationship."
— Round Hill Music'snew Nashville operation has signed Danny Myrickto an exclusive worldwide publishing agreement, covering his catalog and future works.
Myrick has written songs for and/or with Big and Rich, Craig Morgan, Tim McGraw, Montgomery Gentry, among others. Up and coming song placements include releases from Old Southern Moonshine Revival and Dean Alexander.
— BMG Chrysalis U.S.has acquired the music publishing and master sound recordings and soundtrack album right to "Khumba,"a 3D animated film with such cast members of Lawrence Fishburneand Liam Neeson.
"The composer, Bruce Retief, did a fantastic job of creating an authentic and original soundtrack for 'Khumba' and we're immensely pleased that BMG will be helping his music reach a wider audience ," Khumba producer Stuart Forrestsaid in a statement.
BMG VP of business and legal affairs and A/V business development Keith Hauprichsaid in a statement, "Khumba is a budding franchise filled with rich storytelling, vibrant characters and unforgettable, heartfelt music."
— Warner/Chappell Musichas signed a worldwide publishing agreement with Aimee Mayo, who has collaborated with such artists as Tim McGraw, Kenny Chesney, Faith Hill, Sara Evans, Carrie Underwood, Backstreet Boys, Jessica Simpson, and Adam Lambert.
"Aimee Mayo is a creative force of nature. I've always been impressed with her passion, drive, and creativity, Warner/Chappell executive VP Ben Vaughnsaid in a statement. The deal covers future works.
Best of Billboard
