Miles Davis’ Music Rights Acquired by Reservoir Media

Miles Davis‘ music rights have found a new home following a significant agreement between the legendary trumpeter’s estate and independent music rights company Reservoir Media.

As per Rolling Stone, the deal, which positions Miles Davis’ catalogue for major exposure ahead of his centennial celebration, represents one of the most substantial jazz acquisitions in recent years.

Reservoir Media has secured 90% of Davis’ publishing rights alongside the estate’s income from his sound recordings.

The agreement extends beyond traditional music rights, with both parties sharing control of the jazz icon’s name, image, and likeness. Financial terms of the acquisition remain undisclosed, though the comprehensive nature of the deal suggests substantial investment in the Miles Davis legacy.

The timing proves strategic, coinciding with preparations for what would have been Davis’ 100th birthday on May 26th, 2026. The late musician, who passed away on September 28th, 1991, continues to influence contemporary jazz and fusion music, making his catalogue particularly valuable for modern audiences and licensing opportunities.

Reservoir Media and the Davis estate have outlined ambitious plans to commemorate the centennial milestone.

A new live show will feature fresh orchestrations of Davis compositions paired with innovative visuals, designed to introduce his music to younger audiences while honouring his artistic legacy. The M.E.B., formerly known as the Miles Electric Band, will embark on a world tour featuring several musicians who previously performed alongside Davis during his career.

The collaboration extends into film production with Miles & Juliette, a biopic focusing on Davis’ romance with French singer and actress Juliette Gréco. Damson Idris and Anamaria Vartolomei will portray the title roles, with Mick Jagger’s Jagged Films among the production companies backing the project. No release date has been announced for the biographical film.

Reservoir Media’s acquisition strategy has consistently targeted influential artists across multiple genres since Golnar Khosrowshahi founded the company in 2007. The firm has established partnerships with notable artists including Joni Mitchell, Snoop Dogg, Sheryl Crow, the Isley Brothers, Sonny Rollins, and Offset. The company gained particular recognition for acquiring Tommy Boy Records in 2021, which enabled De La Soul to finally release their catalogue on streaming services.