Hitmaker Neil Diamond sells his entire catalog of songs to Universal

American singer-songwriter Neil Diamond, the voice behind such classics as “Sweet Caroline” and “Cracklin’ Rosie,” has sold his entire catalog of songs to the publishing arm of Universal Music Group (UMG), following other hit-making artists. to profit from your work.

In a statement Monday, UMG said the deal also encompassed the rights to all recordings from Diamond’s 60-year career, including 110 previously unknown tracks, a previously unreleased album and archival video. He said that he would record and release future Diamond music if he got back in the studio.

UMG did not disclose financial details of the deal.

Diamond, who has sold more than 130 million albums, making him one of the world’s best-selling artists, has worked with Universal Music Publishing Group since 2014, with the company acting as his publishing manager.

“After nearly a decade of business with UMG, I am grateful for the trust and respect we have built together,” Diamond, 81, said in a statement.

“I feel confident knowing that…the global team at UMG will continue to represent my catalog and future releases with the same passion and integrity that have always fueled my career.”

The deal merges Diamond’s early and post-1972 recordings from Bang with those he made with UMG’s MCA Records between 1968 and 1972, when he released songs like “Holly Holy” and “Sweet Caroline,” a song that has remained hugely popular for decades. after and anthem at many sporting events.

Since 2013, Diamond has a recording and licensing agreement with UMG for its non-MCA recordings through its Capitol Music Group division and Universal Music Enterprises.

“Neil Diamond is, by definition, a truly universal songwriter,” said Lucian Grainge, chairman and chief executive officer of Universal Music Group. “Her immense songbook of his and recordings of him encompass some of the most beloved and enduring songs in music history.”

Brooklyn-born Diamond began his career writing for others, but found success after writing his own songs. He has had more than 70 songs on the Billboard charts and was inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame and the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.