MBW understands that the man who wrote Michael Jackson’s smash hit Thriller, Rod Temperton, has signed to Warner/Chappell.
In a heavyweight UK signing for the company, sources close to the deal have told MBW that British musician Temperton has put pen to paper on a global agreement.
He brings over his catalogue from a previous deal with Rondor Music Publishing, part of Universal Music Publishing Group.
Temperton’s first break came as co-founder and keyboardist of the pioneering funk/disco band Heatwave, for whom he wrote a string of platinum singles.
His work with Heatwave caught the attention of groundbreaking producer Quincy Jones, who recruited Temperton to write for Michael Jackson’s debut solo album.
Temperton went on to write Michael Jackson classics including “Off the Wall,” “Rock With You,” “Thriller,” “Baby Be Mine”, “Burn This Disco Out”, “The Lady in My Life,” and others.
His catalogue also includes songs performed by Anita Baker, Aretha Franklin, The Brothers Johnson, George Benson, Herbie Hancock, James Ingram, Michael McDonald, and Quincy Jones — whom he helped craft his breakthrough solo album, The Dude — as well as many others.
Temperton’s signature is a major deal for Warner Chappell in the UK, where respected exec Mike Smith takes over as MD in November.
Warner/Chappell UK is currently being overseen by the company’s global boss, Jon Platt, following the departure of Richard Manners in April.
Warner/Chappell declined to comment on the Rod Temperton signing when contacted by MBW.Music Business Worldwide
