In a groundbreaking move that shook the electronic music industry, deadmau5 has sold his entire music catalogue—including the full rights to his iconic label mau5trap—to Create Music Group for an astonishing $55 million. This sale marks one of the biggest music catalogue deals in dance music history and signals a new chapter for the legendary producer and his brand.
The Massive Sale That Changed Deadmau5’s Career
Joel Zimmerman, better known worldwide as deadmau5, has long been a defining figure in electronic music. With hits like Strobe and Ghosts ‘n’ Stuff, his sound has shaped the genre’s landscape for over a decade. Despite the catalogue’s enormous value, deadmau5 decided it was time to move on from his back catalogue. He felt the music, while important, was not something he needed to hold on to forever, choosing instead to focus on future creative ventures.
What’s Included in the $55 Million Deal?
The sale covers not only deadmau5’s personal catalogue but also the entire mau5trap label’s music library. Founded in 2007, mau5trap has grown into one of dance music’s most respected independent labels. It has launched and supported artists like ATTLAS, Matt Lange, Rezz, and Excision, while continuing to foster emerging talent such as Skellytn, EMSKI, and Lamorn.
This comprehensive sale transfers the rights to all existing tracks and future opportunities related to this extensive catalogue, giving Create Music Group ownership of a powerful legacy in electronic music.
Deadmau5’s Vision After the Sale
Despite parting with his past works, deadmau5 remains as creative and active as ever. He has reassured fans that he’s continuing to write and produce new music, emphasizing that the sale doesn’t signal retirement or slowdown. Instead, the deal allows him to reinvest into his production efforts and innovate with fresh ideas.
He describes this moment as hitting a reset button, with the financial backing to fuel new projects, collaborations, and explorations in music production.
How Create Music Group Plans to Build on the Legacy
Create Music Group, now steward of deadmau5 and mau5trap’s catalogue, has ambitious plans. The company aims to remaster classic tracks and elevate the brand through new content, strategic partnerships, and expanded distribution. Their CEO highlighted the responsibility of managing a catalogue that has influenced not only music but also gaming and technology sectors.
This joint venture ensures that both the legacy and the future of mau5trap’s artists are preserved and promoted, creating exciting opportunities for new and established talents alike.