Primary Wave Acquires Hipgnosis Artwork Catalog; Warner Music Korea Partners with BIBI’s FeelGHood Music
Primary Wave Music has acquired the complete catalog of artwork owned by Hipgnosis, a British design studio founded by Aubrey “Po” Powell in 1967. This acquisition includes iconic pieces created for renowned artists such as Bad Company, Styx, Black Sabbath, Queen, Def Leppard, Foreigner, Yes, AC/DC, and Genesis. Notably, the collection features original objects associated with these artworks, including the biplanes used in Pink Floyd’s music video for “Point Me to the Sky” and one of the original sculptures from Led Zeppelin’s album cover for Presence.
Collaboration for Global Exhibitions
Under the terms of the agreement, Primary Wave will collaborate with Powell to organize global exhibitions showcasing the Hipgnosis catalog, including pieces that have never been publicly displayed. Lexi Todd, Deputy COO of Primary Wave, expressed enthusiasm for the partnership, stating that the artwork has significantly influenced how generations have experienced music. Todd emphasized the importance of honoring the connection between sound and image, aiming to inspire music fans worldwide.
Powell remarked on the partnership, noting that he had long been approached to sell parts of his collection but sought a company that recognized the importance of the entire body of work. He expressed optimism about the collaboration, stating that Primary Wave’s support would allow Hipgnosis to grow on a global stage.
Warner Music Korea and FeelGHood Music Join Forces
In a separate development, Warner Music Korea has entered a global partnership with FeelGHood Music, an indie label founded by Korean hip-hop artists Tiger JK and Yoon Mira. This partnership aims to represent Korean artist BIBI, coinciding with the release of her latest song, “BUMPA,” which blends global pop, Latin, and Caribbean rhythms.
BIBI’s 2024 track “Bam Yang Gang” has topped charts in Korea and earned her accolades at the MAMA and Melon Music Awards. Jieun Kim, President of Warner Music Korea, highlighted BIBI’s unique creative identity and bold sensibilities, asserting that the partnership is a strategic move to amplify her presence on the global stage.
Tiger JK, CEO of FeelGHood Music, expressed excitement about the partnership, emphasizing their alignment with Warner Music’s vision for developing impactful artists while preserving their individuality.
Recent Industry Developments
Several notable transactions have occurred in the music industry recently:
Madison Square Garden Entertainment and Kalshi
Madison Square Garden Entertainment has formed a multi-year partnership with prediction market Kalshi. This collaboration will see Kalshi become the official prediction market for Madison Square Garden, enhancing fan engagement through integrated visibility across the venue.
BMI Acquires Soundmouse
BMI has acquired Soundmouse, a leader in music cue sheet reporting and monitoring. This acquisition aims to create the largest cue sheet database in the global audiovisual marketplace, enhancing revenue opportunities for songwriters and composers.
AntiFragile Equity Partners and Hot Vibes Records
AntiFragile Equity Partners has completed its first catalog acquisition by purchasing a majority stake in Hot Vibes Records, known for its electronic and dance music catalog that has generated over 1 billion streams.
Virgin Music Group and Chess Club Records
Virgin Music Group has signed a global distribution agreement with U.K.-based Chess Club Records, which has a strong track record of artist development. This partnership is expected to support new music releases in the coming months.
FUGA and Insomniac Music Group
FUGA has renewed its global distribution partnership with Insomniac Music Group, continuing to provide support for their releases, including catalog management and distribution.
Nederlander Concerts and Vina Robles Amphitheatre
Nederlander Concerts has acquired the Vina Robles Amphitheatre in Paso Robles, California, committing to maintaining partnerships with other promoters at the venue.
Overtune and SoundCloud
Overtune has announced a strategic partnership with SoundCloud, integrating music creation tools with global distribution capabilities.
Venu Holding Corporation and Chattanooga Amphitheater
Venu Holding Corporation has entered an agreement to purchase land for the Sunset Amphitheater in Chattanooga, Tennessee, which will feature a capacity of approximately 12,500 seats.
Z2 and Two Rivers Distribution
Two Rivers Distribution has signed a U.S. sales and distribution agreement with Z2, a publisher known for its collaborations with musicians.
The Orchard and DAO Music Entertainment
DAO Music Entertainment has signed a deal with The Orchard to enhance global distribution and marketing for its artists.
Qobuz and Rough Trade
Qobuz has formed a global partnership with Rough Trade, becoming the official streaming service for all Rough Trade stores worldwide through 2028.
As reported by www.billboard.com.
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Published on 2026-05-22 02:19:00 • By FAME Delivered News Desk