In a groundbreaking move that has sent ripples through the electronic music community, Canadian DJ and producer Deadmau5, born Joel Zimmerman, has sold his extensive music catalog along with the assets of his renowned record label, Mau5trap, to Create Music Group for a sum exceeding $55 million.
This monumental deal encompasses the master recordings and copyrights of over 4,000 tracks, including iconic hits like "Strobe" and "Ghosts 'n' Stuff." Mau5trap, established in 2007, has been instrumental in launching the careers of prominent electronic artists such as Skrillex, REZZ, and Feed Me.
The acquisition marks the beginning of a strategic partnership between Deadmau5 and Create Music Group. Plans include remastering classic tracks, producing exclusive new content, and integrating the Mau5trap legacy into emerging platforms like virtual reality and gaming. The collaboration aims to introduce this rich musical heritage to new generations of fans.
Reflecting on the partnership, Deadmau5 stated, "I have worked closely with Jonathan, Alex, and Create for nearly two decades now, building my own career as well as the artists on Mau5trap. We didn’t need to look far when we were considering a partner to help get it all to the next level."
Jonathan Strauss, co-founder and CEO of Create Music Group, expressed his enthusiasm, noting that Deadmau5's vision has redefined electronic music by pushing boundaries and reshaping the industry. He emphasized the responsibility of stewarding the legendary catalogs of Deadmau5 and Mau5trap, acknowledging their significant impact on the music landscape.
This sale aligns with a growing trend of artists monetizing their music catalogs. Notably, electronic music figures like Calvin Harris and David Guetta, as well as the family of the late Avicii, have engaged in similar agreements, reflecting a broader movement within the industry.