Music
Reservoir acquires Billy Strayhorn's publishing catalog and adds likeness-rights participation
Reported by Reservoir Media · Oct 19, 2026
Reservoir announced the acquisition of jazz composer Billy Strayhorn's publishing catalog and participation in his name, image and likeness rights in partnership with his estate. The agreement expands a relationship with Billy Strayhorn Songs that began in 2014; his compositions include Take the 'A' Train, Lush Life and Chelsea Bridge.
Why it matters
The transaction illustrates how Black musical legacies can generate business opportunities across both compositions and personal identity rights. For estates, the distinction between selling publishing and partnering on likeness rights is important to understanding what control remains.
Summary by BlackGenre. Full reporting belongs to Reservoir Media.
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