Recent developments reported by Variety have shed light on BMG’s decision to terminate its association with Roger Waters, a co-founder of Pink Floyd, and the potential repercussions for the sale of the band’s colossal $500 million back catalog.
BMG’s move to sever ties with Waters stems from his increasingly controversial political statements. Waters, recognized for his outspoken views on Israel, Ukraine, and the United States, has generated criticism and controversy. BMG, which had entered into a publishing agreement with Waters in 2016, recently scrapped plans for a reimagined version of Pink Floyd’s iconic 1973 album ‘Dark Side of the Moon,’ under the new leadership of CEO Thomas Coesfeld.
The album eventually found release through Cooking Vinyl in the UK. While Variety’s sources suggest BMG is preparing to completely disassociate from Waters, the company has refrained from commenting on the matter.
The Impact on the Lucrative Pink Floyd Catalog Sale
Roger Waters’ significant role in the history of Pink Floyd is undeniable. However, his recent political statements, some interpreted as bordering on antisemitism, have triggered widespread criticism. Waters’ unapologetic stance, including controversial remarks at the United Nations Security Council in Russia, has strained relations with his former bandmates and seems to be affecting potential deals for Pink Floyd’s immensely valuable music catalog, rumored to be on the market for an astonishing $500 million.
Reports from August 2022 indicated that major players like Blackstone, Sony, Warner, BMG, and Primary Wave were interested in acquiring Pink Floyd’s copyrights, encompassing both songs and master recordings. Unfortunately, the controversies surrounding Waters have reportedly dissuaded potential buyers.
Pink Floyd’s Half-Billion-Dollar Back Catalog Sale at Risk
The Financial Times reported in August 2022 that Pink Floyd’s entire back catalog was poised to fetch over $500 million. However, conflicts between Roger Waters and David Gilmour, as disclosed by Variety in March 2023, cast a shadow over the potential deal. Sources close to the situation revealed that internal disputes among band members and estates were significantly hampering the sale process.
As of now, there is no official statement regarding the completion or termination of the Pink Floyd catalog sale. The potential impact of Waters’ separation from BMG on this high-profile deal remains a subject of speculation and keen interest within the music industry.