Photo Credit: Val Wilmer/Redferns/Getty Images
Sony Music Publishing has signed a global admin deal with the estate of singer, songwriter, and guitarist Muddy Waters.
The deal encompasses his complete catalog of works with legendary hits like “Mannish Boy,” “Rollin’ Stone,” “Champagne & Reefer,” “I Can’t Be Satisfied,” “Country Blues,” “The Blues Had A Baby And They Called It Rock & Roll,” and “Trouble No More.”
“Muddy Waters was without a doubt one of the most impactful songwriters in modern music,” says Sony Music Publishing Chairman & CEO Jon Platt. “His vibrant, expressive sound is embodied in music today and continues to inspire generations. We look forward to working with the Muddy Waters Estate to build upon its enduring songwriting legacy.”
“A true songwriter at heart, Muddy Waters’ tremendous influence set a new standard for rock and blues which remains to this day,” adds Sony Music Publishing SVP Songwriter Services Liz Lewis. “We are thrilled to welcome the legendary Muddy Waters catalog to SMP, and we look forward to partnering with the Muddy Waters Estate on exciting new ways to invigorate the catalog.”
McKinley ‘Muddy Waters’ Morganfield is known to many as the father of the Chicago blues scene. He grew to fame in the late 1940s and early 1950s, establishing himself as a leader. Waters’ electric blues style inspired the Rolling Stones, who named themselves after Waters’ hit, “Rollin’ Stone.”
Throughout his career, he achieved top accolades, including six Grammy wins and eleven nominations. Muddy Waters also received the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award in 1992 and was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1987.
“On behalf of Muddy Waters‘ family we take great comfort in knowing that his incredible catalog of music is going to be in the hands of Jon Platt and his team at Sony,” says Mercy Morganfield, daughter of the late singer. “My father’s legacy is a vital part of not only musical history but American history. Making sure future generations are aware of the way blues legends like Dad, Howling Wolf, BB King, John Lee Hooker, Buddy Guy and so many others have shaped other genres of music from rock and roll to hip-hop is so important.”
“We don’t want these names to get lost in history and in the telling and re-telling of their stories. I believe we have a partner in Sony who can help keep that flame alive and expand our reach, giving my father his rightful place in music history, a place we all believe he and so many others deserve. I am looking forward to the work ahead,” Morganfield adds.