Create Music Group has acquired the catalogue of electronic music artist and producer Deadmau5, as well as that of his record label mau5trap.
In a deal valued at more than $55 million and involving the sound recordings and publishing copyrights of more than 4,000 songs in total, the partnership also encompasses the formation of a joint venture to release future recordings by Deadmau5 and from Mau5trap.
With a career spanning more than two and a half decades, Deadmau5 is one of electronic music’s best known artists, with millions of fans for his recordings and live shows.
Deadmau5 (Joel Zimmerman) also became an advocate for artist rights and ownership, founding his Mau5trap label in 2007. It has launched the careers of acts including Skrillex, Rezz, Noisia, Feed Me, and i_o.
Joel Zimmerman has been an early adopter of technologies in streaming, social media and gaming.
“With its distinct brand identity, innovative approach to music production, and dedication to fostering the next generation of electronic music talent, Mau5trap has become a revered institution in the dance music industry,” said a statement.
Jonathan Strauss, co-founder and CEO of Create Music Group, said: “When Deadmau5 put on that helmet, he didn’t just create a brand – he sparked a movement. His vision redefined electronic music, pushing boundaries and reshaping the industry. From the earliest days of Create Music Group, [co-founder and COO] Alexandre Williams and I had the privilege of working alongside Joel and his business partner Dean Wilson, witnessing firsthand the evolution of an icon.
“Now, as the stewards of Deadmau5 and Mau5trap’s legendary catalogue, we inherit a legacy that changed music forever. Joel’s influence reaches far beyond sound – his mastery bridges music, gaming and technology, inspiring a new generation to think bigger. This is more than an acquisition; it’s a responsibility.”
His vision redefined electronic music, pushing boundaries and reshaping the industry
Jonathan Strauss
Joel Zimmerman (Deadmau5), founder, Mau5trap, said: “I have worked closely with Jonathan, Alex and Create for nearly two decades now, building my own career as well as the artists on mau5trap.We didn’t need to look far when we were considering a partner to help get it all to the next level. With Create, I feel the music is going to reach more."
Dean Wilson, Deadmau5 manager and business partner, said: "Over the last 20 years, fuelled by Joel’s creative and entrepreneurial ambitions, we have built one of the strongest brand names in electronic music. To have partnered with Create, who have worked so closely with us over the years on our journey, ensures that the next two decades will be every bit as exciting for Joel and everyone on the mau5trap team as we work to expand our legacy even further.”
As part of the partnership, CMG will implement a multi-platform strategy, including remastering and re-releasing key catalogue pieces, launching exclusive new content, and introducing the Mau5trap legacy to new generations of fans. The collaboration will also explore licensing opportunities, brand partnerships, and a continued focus on emerging media such as gaming, VR and live streaming to drive additional revenue streams for the catalogue.
Eric Nguyen, senior vice president of global corporate development and M&A of Create Music Group, played a key role in the deal. Paul Hastings LLP (Sid Fohrman and Hayley Silvertown) served as legal advisors to Create Music Group and LaPolt Law PC (Dina LaPolt and Lindsay Arrington) served as legal advisors to Deadmau5 and Mau5trap.
PHOTO: (L-R) Dean Wilson, Deadmau5 manager; Joel Zimmerman; Alexandre Williams, co-founder and COO, Create Music Group; Jonathan Strauss, co-founder and CEO, Create Music Group. Photo by Chris Polk.
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