Image credit: Sony Music Publishing

The world’s largest music publishing company changes name back to Sony Music Publishing.

For the first time in two decades the name Sony Music Publishing returns as the US headquartered pubco Sony/ATV has a huge rebrand. In addition to this there is also a shiny new logo. 

The move marks 25 years since Sony/ATV was established through a joint venture with the late Michael Jackson. The merger brought together Sony Music Publishing with Jacksons ATV Music, which he acquired for just $47.5m in 1985. Interestingly, ATV owned the Northern Songs catalog, which included the majority of Lennon/McCartney songs written for The Beatles. 

In 2016, Sony acquired the Michael Jackson estates 50% share of the Sony/ATV for $750m, bringing the company under one banner and wholly owned by Sony. Sony further consolidated its position as the largest music publisher but purchasing the full ownership of EMI Music, a deal worth more than $2.5bn. 

Speaking on the rebrand Sony Music Chairman and CEO Jon Platt said: “Sony Music Publishing has always embraced the power of songwriting to connect cultures and bring people together. Since its inception, Sony Music Publishing has supported the careers of songwriters and continues to defend their rights.” He continues, “Returning to the Sony Music Publishing name reconnects us to our legacy and further unifies our mission and culture with the Sony Corporation. Our new brand embodies a modern vision to be an authentic reflection of the music and songwriters we represent.” 

Sony Music Group Chairman Rob Stringer added, “By re-energizing the Sony Music Publishing brand, Jon and the company are charting a new course for the business and an exciting path forward for its songwriters and its people.” He adds, “the publishing division’s bold new image also conveys Sony Music Group’s evolution as a future-forward creative entertainment company, adding distinction to our positioning.”

Sony Music Publishing boasts an impressive catalogue that includes: Michael Jackson, The Beatles, Queen, Ashford & Simpson, Motown, Carole King, Leiber & Stoller, Leonard Cohen, Stevie Wonder, Claudia Brant, as well as  contemporary songwriters like Ed Sheeran, Beyoncé, Lady Gaga, Calvin Harris, Cardi B, Daddy Yankee, Gabby Barrett, Jay-Z, Kanye West, Luke Bryan, Maluma, Miranda Lambert, Pharrell Williams, Rihanna, Sara Bareilles, Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs and many more.