Sia Sells 50% Stake in Music Catalogue for US$180 Million
Australian pop superstar Sia has sold a 50% stake in her music catalogue to Pophouse in a deal worth US$180 million, with an immersive avatar project also in the works.
Australian pop heavyweight Sia has sold a 50% stake in her music catalogue for US$180 million (AU$255 million) to Swedish entertainment and investment company Pophouse.
The deal, first reported by TMZ and confirmed by Rolling Stone, covers publishing and master recording rights, but does not include the Adelaide-born singer-songwriter’s name or likeness. Pophouse, which was co-founded by ABBA’s Björn Ulvaeus, will also work with Sia on an immersive digital avatar production built around her extensive catalogue.
The project is expected to incorporate songs Sia has released as an artist alongside tracks she has written for others, including Rihanna’s global hit “Diamonds”. According to Rolling Stone, the digital avatar production remains in its early stages and is not expected to debut for at least a couple of years, though it could eventually tour select cities.
Sia confirmed the partnership in a statement shared on social media, describing the deal as a major moment in her career. “What a perfect day to thank my fans, my friends, my family and my talented collaborators and colleagues,” she wrote.
“A special thank you to David Russell and Jonathan Daniel, for believing in me when I first disclosed my dream of putting a wig over my face, and writing a song for Beyoncé. I couldn't have done it alone, this was 100% a group effort, and I owe you my endless gratitude for your love and care that has carried me this far.”
She added: “Soon to come, a very special collaboration with Pophouse [sic]. I look forward to sharing new songs, new ideas, and my wealth with those who need it. Today's truly a professional milestone.
Sia’s catalogue is estimated to generate around US$18 million annually in songwriting and performance royalties. Her streaming numbers remain significant, with nine songs surpassing one billion Spotify streams, including “Chandelier”, “Cheap Thrills”, “Elastic Heart” and her David Guetta collaboration “Titanium”.
Reporting from inside the Australian music business since '94.
The transaction also gives Sia’s full catalogue an implied valuation of around US$360 million.
Pophouse has become an increasingly prominent player in the music rights market, with investments involving artists including KISS, Tina Turner, Iron Maiden and Cyndi Lauper. The company was also a founding investor in ABBA Voyage, the London virtual concert residency featuring digital versions of the Swedish group.
