Remember when Michael Jackson was just the King of Pop, not a financial wizard? In 1985, he bought the Beatles’ publishing rights for $47.5 million. Yeah, the guy who sang “Thriller” became the boss of “Let It Be.”
How did this happen? Paul McCartney casually told Michael that music publishing was a smart investment. Michael took that advice, went behind Paul’s back, and snatched the catalog. Awkward! It’s like telling your friend about a great parking spot, then watching them steal it. The friendship never recovered.
Why Did This Matter So Much?
Owning the publishing rights means you control who can cover a song, use it in a movie, or license it for a commercial. So for years, if you wanted “Yesterday” in your ad, you called Michael Jackson’s estate. Not Paul. Wild, huh?
It’s like owning the deed to a house, but the person who built it pays you rent forever. That’s why musicians get obsessive about this stuff.
Paul McCartney & Sony/ATV: Rights to Beatles Music | The Fried Firm
