Downtown Music Publishing has announced a new deal to represent the catalog of hip hop pioneer Biz Markie, including representation of the late artist's name, image, and likeness (NIL) rights alongside publishing administration and sync licensing.
Biz Markie's catalog and associated rights are managed under the direction of Tara Hall, widow of Marcel Hall (Biz Markie) and executor of the estate. Recorded music assets are managed through Revilo Records, with distribution and catalog services provided in partnership with Rhino Entertainment and Warner Music Group.
Publishing interests are represented through Surrey Lane Publishing and administered by Downtown Music Publishing, while The Biz Markie Experience oversees name, image, and likeness, intellectual property, and experiential initiatives, with administration handled by Downtown Music Publishing.
The agreement marks a significant addition to Downtown's growing roster of influential and genre-defining artists.
"Biz Markie was a truly original producer, performer, and cultural force," said Jedd Katrancha, Chief Creative Officer, Downtown Music Publishing. "We're honored to be entrusted with preserving and amplifying his legacy."
Best known for the timeless hit "Just a Friend," Biz Markie became one of music's most beloved personalities, celebrated for his humor, inventiveness, and creativity.
The announcement arrives on the 40th anniversary of Make the Music With Your Mouth, Biz, the 1986 debut that introduced Biz Markie and his unmistakable style.
''There's a longer story behind this, but one day I asked Biz, 'Who do you think I am to you?'" said Tara Hall. "His reply runs through my mind every day. Biz answered, 'You are my future.' Going through his music, photographs, and videos from the beginning of his career has been incredibly meaningful."
"As we approach the 40th anniversary of Make the Music With Your Mouth, Biz, I'm excited to share these pieces of his story and celebrate the creativity and spirit that made Biz who he was," she added. "In many ways, I'm creating a blueprint for how to honor a legend while finding new ways for his work to live on for future generations. Biz preserved his legacy, and now it's my job to protect it."
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