NEW YORK — The rock catalog of Queen, one of the most commercially successful rock bands of all time, reportedly is being pursued by Sony, which could pay up to $1 billion.
The potential deal was first reported by Bloomberg News. Universal Music Group and Disney also reportedly have had discussions with the band’s lawyers, according to Billboard.
The BBC reports that any deal would include the band’s songs and rights to logos, music videos, merchandise, publishing and other business opportunities.
If Sony pays $1 billion, it will be the largest deal of its kind, the BBC reports. Earlier this year, Sony paid about $600 million for a 50% interest in Michael Jackson’s music. Sony also spent $500 million in 2021 to acquire Bruce Springsteen’s catalog.
Queen remains popular and continues to tour despite the death of original lead singer Freddie Mercury in 1991. Adam Lambert currently sings for the band, which also includes renowned guitarist Brian May and drummer Roger Taylor. Longtime bassist John Deacon left the band in 1997.
The British band has sold more than 300 million records worldwide since it formed in 1970 and has a long list of hits that includes “Bohemian Rhapsody,” “We Will Rock You,” “We Are the Champions,” and “Crazy Little Thing Called Love.”
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