The Bee Gees’ legendary catalogue of recordings is now in the hands of Universal’s Capitol Records.
The band has inked a long-term worldwide agreement with UMG’s Steve Barnett-led label – leaving behind a relationship with Warner Music Group.
However, the news represents a homecoming of sorts: the Bee Gees’ first major label debut in 1967 was through Polydor (now part of UMG).
In addition to 22 studio albums and several soundtracks, including the 40m-selling Saturday Night Fever, the agreement includes the rights to numerous compilation albums, unreleased recordings and long-form audiovisual projects.
Capitol – in conjunction with Universal Music Enterprises (UMe), Barry Gibb and the estates of co-founding members Robin Gibb and Maurice Gibb – plans to spearhead an ‘array of comprehensive and forward-thinking sales and marketing campaigns designed to reinvigorate The Bee Gees’ illustrious catalogue’.
Steve Barnett, Capitol Music Group CEO and Chairman, said: “The Bee Gees catalogue is one of the most esteemed and important bodies of work in the history of recorded music, and we are brimming with ideas that will remind fans of its brilliance and further the band’s legacy by introducing their music to new audiences.
“All of us at the company are honored that The Bee Gees have chosen Capitol as their new home.”
“All of us at the company are honored that The Bee Gees have chosen Capitol as their new home.”
Steve Barnett, Capitol Music Group
Barry Gibb added: “The whole family is overwhelmed by this new agreement. To be surrounded by the greatest record people and artists of all time is a very humbling experience. Wish my brothers were here to share it.”
Universal Music Group Chairman & CEO Sir Lucian Grainge commented, “There are few artists in history who have created a body of work so successful, diverse and timeless as Barry, Robin and Maurice.
“We’re delighted to welcome the incomparable music of the Bee Gees to the Universal Music Group family and we look forward to building upon their incredible legacy.”
Universal Music Enterprises President & CEO Bruce Resnikoff added, “The music of the Bee Gees appeals to music lovers in every corner of the globe, and it is an honor to work with this incredible catalog of recorded music.
“We look forward to showcasing their exceptional body of work and introducing them to a new legion of fans while staying true to their longtime, loyal audience.“
“We’re delighted to welcome the incomparable music of the Bee Gees to the Universal Music Group family and we look forward to building upon their incredible legacy.”
Sir Lucian Grainge, UMG
The Bee Gees – brothers Barry, Robin and Maurice Gibb – have sold more than 220 million records worldwide.
Their recording career took off in 1967 with hit single, “New York Mining Disaster 1941,” and continued into the 21st Century with their final album, This Is Where I Came In, in 2001.
Recording 22 studio albums and numerous soundtracks – including the best-selling OST of all time, Saturday Night Fever – The Bee Gees also achieved nine #1 and 23 Top-Ten singles on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, including “How Deep Is Your Love,” “Night Fever,” and “Stayin’ Alive” from Saturday Night Fever, plus “How Can You Mend A Broken Heart,” “I Started A Joke” “One,” “Lonely Days,” “Words,” and numerous other classics.
The Bee Gees won eight Grammy Awards, five American Music Awards, a Brit Award for Outstanding Contribution to Music and a Legend Award from the World Music Awards.
They have been inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, the Songwriters Hall of Fame, the Vocal Group Hall of Fame and the Dance Music Hall of Fame. All three brothers were appointed Commanders in the Order of the British Empire in 2001.Music Business Worldwide
