Take That’s Gary Barlow Signs Global Publishing Deal With BMG
•February 17, 2026
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Companies Mentioned
Why It Matters
The agreement adds high‑earning evergreen songs to BMG’s catalog, bolstering its publishing revenue and reinforcing its position in a streaming‑driven market. It also demonstrates how legacy artists can leverage new publishing structures to sustain relevance and monetize back‑catalogues.
Key Takeaways
- •Barlow's catalog joins BMG's global publishing roster.
- •Deal includes Take That classics and Elton John collaborations.
- •BMG adds Mick Jagger, Keith Richards, others recently.
- •Barlow prepping Take That stadium tour and new album.
- •Partnership highlights BMG's artist‑first, long‑term model.
Pulse Analysis
BMG’s acquisition of Gary Barlow’s extensive songwriting portfolio reflects a broader industry shift toward consolidating timeless catalogues under single‑publisher umbrellas. By securing rights to hits like “Back for Good” and cross‑genre collaborations, BMG not only enriches its royalty streams but also gains leverage in negotiations with streaming platforms that prioritize proven, high‑engagement tracks. The deal aligns with BMG’s recent strategy of signing iconic songwriters, creating a diversified asset base that can weather fluctuations in new‑release performance.
The financial implications are significant. Legacy songs continue to generate steady income through mechanical royalties, sync placements, and digital streaming, often outpacing newer releases in per‑track earnings. BMG’s global infrastructure ensures Barlow’s works are monetized across 190+ territories, maximizing revenue while providing the artist with transparent reporting. Coupled with Barlow’s upcoming *The Circus Live* tour and a new Take That album, the publishing deal creates cross‑promotional opportunities that can boost both live‑event ticket sales and catalog streams, reinforcing the symbiotic relationship between touring and publishing.
For the music business, Barlow’s partnership underscores the growing appeal of artist‑first publishing models that promise long‑term stewardship over creative output. As legacy acts increasingly seek control and consistent support, publishers like BMG are positioning themselves as custodians rather than mere rights administrators. This approach not only attracts high‑profile talent but also signals to investors that the company is building a resilient, revenue‑rich portfolio capable of thriving in an era dominated by digital consumption and catalog‑driven growth.
Take That’s Gary Barlow Signs Global Publishing Deal With BMG
Gary Barlow, one of the U.K.’s most successful songwriters and a founding member of boyband Take That, has signed an exclusive global publishing deal with BMG.
The deal covers Barlow’s entire songwriting catalogue, spanning an illustrious career of more than four decades. Among the works included are enduring Take That hits such as “Back for Good,” “Never Forget” and “Greatest Day,” as well as songs co-written for and with artists including Elton John and Robbie Williams.
It marks another major acquisition for BMG, which continues to expand its roster of talent including Mick Jagger, Keith Richards, Loyle Carner, George Ezra and CMAT, among others.
The news arrives amid a busy period for Barlow. This summer, he will head out with Take That on The Circus Live stadium tour across the U.K. and Ireland, a revival of the band’s record-breaking 2009 production. According to a press release, the trio are also at work on their 10th studio album.
“I was struck by the enthusiasm from everyone at BMG, and by the depth and reach of their global team,” Barlow said in a statement. “It quickly felt like a place where we could forge a genuine creative partnership, and that made the decision feel both exciting and very natural.”
Chris Dempsey, founder and artist manager at Corduroy Artists, added BMG “stood out for their passion, their hands-on approach and the sense that Gary’s songwriting catalogue and future work would be given real focus and care.”
Alistair Norbury, president, U.K., Continental Europe & APAC at BMG, called Barlow “one of the defining British songwriters of his generation.” She continued: “What makes this partnership particularly meaningful is not just the legacy of Gary’s catalogue, but the creative ambition that still drives his songwriting forward.”
“At BMG, we’re committed to long-term, artist-first partnerships, and we’re proud to support Gary’s work with the focus, care and global reach it deserves.”
As part of Take That, Barlow has won eight BRIT Awards and contributed to sales of more than 45 million records worldwide. In addition to his work with the band, he has released six albums as a soloist, two of which hit the top spot on the Official U.K. Albums Chart.
Meanwhile, Take That’s music has been back in the spotlight thanks to a new Netflix documentary, which follows the group’s story from their Manchester beginnings to global success.
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