Irving Azoff's Iconic Artists Group last week announced a deal with the family of the late Nat King Cole which sees the company take an interest in the musician's recording and publishing rights, as well as his name and likeness, plus an archive of TV shows.
Co-founded by veteran artist manager Azoff, Iconic Artists Group has been competing with the various investment funds that are seeking to buy up the music rights of heritage artists and songwriters, but also has a focus on managing and monetising the brands and trademarks of such acts as well, as is the case with this deal with the Cole estate.
Confirming said deal, Cole's children Timolin and Casey Cole said: “We’re delighted to entrust our father’s legacy to Irving Azoff and the team at Iconic. Through the years, it’s been amazing to see how dad’s music continues to inspire and bring people together, and with Iconic at the helm, we know his musical legacy will endure and continue to grow".
Meanwhile, Azoff added: “We are THRILLED that Nat King Cole’s family is trusting us with his musical legacy. He was a groundbreaking artist that influenced generations of artists that followed him. One of our true greats - his voice is instantly recognisable and an enduring piece of the fabric of our lives".