Primary Wave Music Publishing has partnered with the Estate of Leon Russell to acquire a stake of the legendary singer and songwriter’s music catalog.
As part of the deal with his estate, Primary Wave has acquired the music publishing and master recording income stream of songs written by Russell (pictured with Elton John from the 2010 album The Union).
Included in the deal are some of Russell’s biggest hits including his most well-known track, A Song For You which has been covered by Whitney Houston, Willie Nelson, Ray Charles, Amy Winehouse, and more.
Additional songs include his debut 1972 hit single, Tight Rope, The Masquerade, which George Benson recorded and took into the Top 10 and Superstar, a No.2 hit for The Carpenters.
Leon Russell’s career spans more than 50 years, from his teen years in the late 1950s in Oklahoma to his best-selling collaboration with Elton John in 2012.
Russell has enjoyed a remarkable and lengthy career as a performing and recording artist. His all-encompassing style ranges from raucous, gospel-inflected rock to heartfelt romantic ballads. He has also recorded albums of country and bluegrass music, delved into the Great American Songbook, and recorded an album of Christmas hymns.
He also shared studios and stages with members of the Beatles, the Rolling Stones and others.
“I am delighted that Leon Russell and his heirs have joined the Primary Wave family.”
Lawrence Mestel, Primary Wave Music Publishing
Lawrence Mestel, CEO & Founder of Primary Wave Music Publishing said: “I am delighted that Leon Russell and his heirs have joined the Primary Wave family.
“Leon was a legendary songwriter whose music has resonated in people’s lives for decades.
“His songs were an inspiration to so many and we look forward to furthering the legacy of this remarkable musician.”
Jan Russell Bridges added: “What better way to celebrate Leon’s birthday than by partnering with Primary Wave to curate and further his amazing legacy.”
“For me, the next best thing to representing Leon during his life is to ensure that his body of work is curated properly for generations to come, hence this partnership with my dear friends at Primary Wave.”
Jeremy M. Rosen, Esq., Leon Russell Estate
Jeremy M. Rosen, Esq., Leon Russell Estate Representative said: “Proud Oklahoma native, Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Inductee, Songwriters Hall of Fame Inductee, multi-Grammy Award winner and the Master of Space & Time himself, Leon Russell, is the epitome of your favorite artist’s favorite artist.
“With a legendary career spanning nearly 60 years, Leon’s collaborations, mentorship and influence included: The Beach Boys, Frank Sinatra, Eric Clapton, Joe Cocker, George Harrison, Ray Charles, Bob Marley, Neil Young, Tom Petty, Sir Elton John, The Rolling Stones and J.J. Cale, to name a few.
“For me, the next best thing to representing Leon during his life is to ensure that his body of work is curated properly for generations to come, hence this partnership with my dear friends at Primary Wave.”
Primary Wave bought the Sly & Robbie and Count Basie catalogs in October 2018.Music Business Worldwide
