NASHVILLE, Tenn. — Big Loud has finalized a deal to sell a minority interest in Morgan Wallen’s recording catalog to Chord Music Partners, marking a significant strategic investment aimed at enhancing the label’s global presence and supporting long-term artist growth.
A spokesperson for Big Loud confirmed the transaction, emphasizing that the agreement was facilitated with collaboration from a range of industry players, including Chord Music, Republic Records, and Universal Music Group. Legal and financial partners in the deal included PLUS Capital, Eisner, Loeb & Loeb, DLA Piper, Dickinson Wright, and Armanino, highlighting the multifaceted nature of the investment.
The Hollywood Reporter, which first broke the news, estimates the value of the catalog stake at around $200 million. This substantial investment underscores both Wallen’s popularity and the growing interest in his musical output.
Founded in 2021, Chord Music Partners emerged from a collaboration between KKR and Dundee Partners. Earlier this year, Universal Music Group acquired a 25.8% stake in Chord, taking charge of the company’s distribution and publishing efforts. As a result, KKR exited the partnership, allowing Dundee to increase its ownership to 74.2%. Last March, Big Loud also entered into a multi-year agreement with UMG’s Mercury Records and Republic, underscoring its commitment to expanding their artist roster.
Although representatives from Chord Music and UMG have not yet commented on the latest deal, the acquisition integrates into a broader landscape of iconic music rights. Following the UMG deal, Chord held rights to over 60,000 songs, including classics such as Fleetwood Mac’s “Dreams” and “Landslide,” as well as popular hits from artists like John Legend and Maroon 5.
The partnership between Big Loud and Chord Music signals a larger trend in the music industry where established labels are seeking financial backing to enhance their portfolios amid a rapidly changing marketplace. This kind of strategic investment not only benefits the involved parties but also contributes to nurturing emerging talent in an increasingly competitive industry.
As artists like Wallen continue to dominate charts, such collaborations highlight the ongoing evolution of music ownership and the importance of strategic partnerships in advancing an artist’s career. With this investment, both Big Loud and Chord Music Partners are poised to make significant cultural impacts in the years to come.