Miles Davis Estate Partners with Reservoir Media Ahead of Centennial Celebration

As 2026 approaches, marking the 100th birthday of legendary jazz musician Miles Davis, the music industry is buzzing with significant developments. Reservoir Media, an independent music rights company, has reached an agreement with the Miles Davis estate to acquire 90 percent of Davis’ music publishing rights and the estate’s income from his various works. Although the specific terms of the transaction remain undisclosed, estimates suggest that Reservoir paid between $40 million and $60 million for the rights.

Key Details of the Acquisition

Under the new arrangement, Reservoir Media will share control over Davis’ name and likeness with the estate, facilitating a unique collaboration aimed at revitalizing the artist’s legacy. Davis, widely regarded as one of the most influential musicians of the 20th century, continues to resonate across generations, making this partnership particularly impactful.

Reservoir Media has plans beyond mere ownership; they are gearing up for a series of events to honor Davis’ legacy. These include a biopic focusing on his romantic relationship with French singer Juliette Gréco, produced in part by Mick Jagger, and an international tour featuring the Miles Electric Band, now rebranded as M.E.B. Additionally, a “Miles Davis Centennial Celebration” will take place over four nights at San Francisco’s SFJazz center this March, promising to engage fans in a memorable tribute.

Broader Context in the Music Industry

Reservoir Media is no stranger to high-profile acquisitions and artist management; the company oversees publishing catalogs for artists including Snoop Dogg, Joni Mitchell, along with rights to songs by Sheryl Crow, the Isley Brothers, and Sonny Rollins. Notably, in 2021, Reservoir acquired Tommy Boy Music, which led to the first-time availability of De La Soul’s complete discography on streaming platforms—a landmark moment in hip-hop history.

However, it’s important to note that Sony Music retains the recorded music rights to Davis’ albums released between 1955 and 1985, highlighting the complex layers of rights management in the modern music landscape.

Statements from Key Figures

The partnership has garnered positive reactions from both sides. Vince Willburn Jr., Davis’ nephew and representative of the estate, expressed confidence in Reservoir’s commitment to sustaining Davis’ legacy. He stated, “With Reservoir, there’s a real respect for Miles—his music, his style, and his cultural impact. This partnership gives us the chance to elevate his legacy in new ways, and to ensure that his influence continues to inspire.”

Reservoir’s founder and CEO, Golnar Khosrowshahi, emphasized the honor of managing such a revered catalog. She stated, “Miles Davis is one of the most influential musicians of all time, and it is an incredible honor that his catalog has found a home at Reservoir.” Khosrowshahi also noted that this collaboration would help preserve legacies while reigniting interest in legendary artists through modern platforms like streaming services.

Conclusion: A Significant Moment for Music History

The deal between Reservoir Media and the Miles Davis estate represents a strategic move aimed at celebrating and sustaining Davis’ profound cultural presence. As the music industry continues to evolve, collaborations of this nature underscore the importance of honoring past legacies while adapting to contemporary platforms.

The upcoming events and projects aim not only to celebrate Miles Davis’ incredible contributions to music but also to engage new audiences, ensuring that his timeless works remain accessible and relevant. As we approach the centennial of his birth, the anticipation builds, promising an impactful acknowledgment of one of jazz’s most iconic figures.

For those interested in listening to Davis’ exceptional catalog, his music remains available on various streaming platforms.