Electronic music artist and entrepreneur Deadmau5 has sold his song catalog and that of his Mau5trap label to Create Music Group in a deal valued at more than $55 million, the company announced on Wednesday. The deal, which involves the sound recordings and copyrights of more than 4,000 songs, also encompasses the formation of a joint venture to release future recordings by Deadmau5 and from Mau5trap.
As part of the partnership, CMG will implement a “robust multi-platform strategy,” according to the announcement, including remastering and re-releasing key catalog pieces, launching exclusive new content, and “leveraging innovative marketing tactics to introduce the mau5trap legacy to new generations of fans.” The collaboration will also explore licensing opportunities, brand partnerships, and a continued focus on emerging media such as gaming, VR and live streaming to drive additional revenue streams for the catalog.
The veteran musician — aka Joel Zimmerman — began releasing music in 2005 and has been a major draw on the electronic music circuit for decades. He also has been an outspoken advocate for artist rights and ownership. His Mau5trap label has released music by such artists as Skrillex, Rezz, Noisia, Feed Me, and i_o. (Pictured above, L-R: Deadmau5 manager Dean Wilson, Zimmerman, Create co-founder/COO Alexandre Williams, Create co-founder/CEO Jonathan Strauss.)
Jonathan Strauss, co-founder and CEO of Create Music Group commented: “When deadmau5 put on that helmet, he didn’t just create a brand—he sparked a movement. His vision redefined electronic music, pushing boundaries and reshaping the industry. From the earliest days of Create Music Group, [co-founder and COO] Alexandre Williams and I had the privilege of working alongside Joel and his business partner Dean Wilson, witnessing firsthand the evolution of an icon. Now, as the stewards of deadmau5 and mau5trap’s legendary catalog, we inherit a legacy that changed music forever. Joel’s influence reaches far beyond sound—his mastery bridges music, gaming, and technology, inspiring a new generation to think bigger. This is more than an acquisition; it’s a responsibility.”
Deadmau5 added, “I have worked closely with Jonathan, Alex and Create for nearly two decades now, building my own career as well as the artists on mau5trap.We didn’t need to look far when we were considering a partner to help get it all to the next level. With Create, I feel the music is going to reach more.”
Paul Hastings LLP (Sid Fohrman and Hayley Silvertown) served as legal advisors to Create Music Group and LaPolt Law P.C. (Dina LaPolt and Lindsay Arrington) served as legal advisors to deadmau5 and mau5trap.
