The estate of American soul and rhythm and blues (R&B) singer Wilson Pickett has entered a partnership with Primary Wave, giving the music company a share of his name, image and likeness (NIL) rights and a stake in his music publishing catalog. Financial terms were not disclosed.
The agreement was announced Wednesday, Sept. 2. Under the deal, the estate and Primary Wave will collaborate on marketing, branding, digital, synchronization, film and television projects.
Songwriting and catalog#
Pickett, who died in 2006 at age 64, recorded many songs written by other songwriters, but he also co-wrote some of his own material. His co-writers included Steve Cropper on “In the Midnight Hour,” Bobby Womack, and David Porter and Homer Banks on “I’m Drifting.” He also shared a co-write with the late music executive Jerry Wexler on “Soul Dance Number Three.” The Songview database lists Pickett as a credited songwriter on about 100 songs.
Key recordings#
Pickett’s hit recordings as an artist include:
- “In the Midnight Hour”
- “Mustang Sally”
- “Land of 1,000 Dances” (cover)
- “634-5789 (Soulsville, U.S.A.)”
- “Funky Broadway” (cover)
Statements#
“Promoting my brother’s incredible legacy has not just been a responsibility; it has been a labor of absolute love,” said Max Pickett, an executive of the Pickett estate. “Wilson poured his soul into every lyric, leaving us a musical inheritance that belongs to the world. Since his passing, it has been my sacred mission to ensure that his voice continues to echo for generations to come. I am profoundly grateful to partner with Primary Wave, stewards who truly understand the weight of his history and the timeless power of his sound. Together, we are keeping the Wicked Pickett’s fire burning bright.”
“Primary Wave is honored to partner with Max Pickett and the Pickett family to help preserve and expand the legacy of one of the most influential artists in music history,” said David Weitzman of Primary Wave. “Wilson Pickett was a once in a generation talent, an iconic soul singer, electrifying performer, and one of the defining voices of American music. His remarkable body of work, created alongside legendary collaborators including Jerry Wexler, the Stax Records team, the Muscle Shoals Rhythm Section, and Gamble & Huff, helped shape the sound of soul and R&B for generations. We are proud to celebrate his extraordinary career and ensure that his legacy continues to reach new audiences for years to come.”
