After ample speculation, it’s official: Justin Bieber has sold his publishing catalog to Hipgnosis for a seismic sum.

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In a deal that sources say cost $200 million, Hipgnosis has acquired a 100% interest in the Pop pin-up’s publishing copyrights, recordings, and neighboring rights for the 290 tracks he released prior to December 31, 2021.

Per the pact, Bieber’s share of artist royalties for his masters will now be directed to Hipgnosis.

Universal Music Group will continue to own the recorded music copyrights to the ‘Yummy’ singer’s material in perpetuity (aka forever).

Speaking on the deal (said to be the company’s biggest to date), Hipgnosis chieftain Merck Mercuriadis said in a statement:

“The impact of Justin Bieber on global culture over the last 14 years has truly been remarkable. At only 28 years of age, he is one of a handful of defining artists of the streaming era that has revitalized the entire music industry, taking a loyal and worldwide audience with him on a journey from teen phenomenon to culturally important artist. This acquisition ranks among the biggest deals ever made for an artist under the age of 70, such is the power of this incredible catalog that has almost 82 million monthly listeners and over 30 billion streams on Spotify alone. Scooter Braun has helped him build a magnificent catalogue, and it’s a pleasure to welcome Justin and his incredible songs and recordings to the Hipgnosis family.”

Bieber’s manager Scooter Braun added:

“I want to thank Merck and his entire Hipgnosis team and all of our partners involved for working so hard to make this historic deal happen. When Justin made the decision to make a catalog deal, we quickly found the best partner to preserve and grow this amazing legacy was Merck and Hipgnosis. For over a decade now, Justin Bieber has entertained us and moved us with some of the biggest songs in the world. I’m so proud of him and all those involved over the years in helping amass this incredible body of work. Justin is truly a once-in-a-generation artist, and that is reflected and acknowledged by the magnitude of this deal. For 15 years I have been grateful to witness this journey, and today I am happy for all those involved. Justin’s greatness is just beginning.”

Bieber joins the likes of Shakira and Justin Timberlake on the rapidly growing list of notable names who have sold their catalog rights.

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