Universal Music Publishing Group (UMPG) has struck an exclusive global publishing agreement to represent the catalog of legendary songwriter Irving Berlin.
The deal builds upon UMPG’s existing relationship with Berlin’s estate as the company has served as his catalog administrator, ex-US, since 2012.
“Lauded as one of the greatest songwriters in American history,” according to UMPG, Berlin composed more than 1,500 songs over his 60-year career, from ballads to Broadway scores.
Under the expanded agreement, UMPG will represent Berlin’s catalog of classics including Anything You Can Do, Blue Skies, Cheek To Cheek, How Deep Is The Ocean, It’s A Lovely Day Today, I’ve Got My Love To Keep Me Warm Let’s Face The Music And Dance, Puttin’ On The Ritz, Steppin’ Out With My Baby, The Song Is Ended (But The Melody Lingers On), There’s No Business Like Show Business, Guinness World Records’ longtime best-selling single White Christmas, and more.
In support of the expanded agreement and to “help drive maximized value for Berlin’s legacy”, UMPG created a new custom Film & TV industry site focused on showcasing Berlin’s expansive and iconic catalog.
“The site strategically uses themed playlists and intuitive tagging to empower sync clients to discover the perfect Irving Berlin song for any audiovisual usage,” says UMPG.
Additionally, UMPG says it will also act as representative for the Berlin estate’s brand and social marketing efforts.
The music publisher has also launched dedicated social channels including a new TikTok page.
Berlin composed 19 Broadway shows and 18 Hollywood films including White Christmas, Holiday Inn and Top Hat.
His music has been featured in films and shows like Home Alone, Titanic, The Simpsons, Spider Man 3 and Downton Abbey. Among numerous honors from throughout his life, Berlin won eight Academy Award nominations, multiple Tony Awards, a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award, induction into the Songwriters’ Hall of Fame, the Presidential Medal of Freedom Award, and a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
His songs have been covered by acts including Lady Gaga, Frank Sinatra, Taylor Swift, Bing Crosby, Paul McCartney, Gregory Porter, Ella Fitzgerald, Bob Dylan, Willie Nelson, Aretha Franklin, Doris Day, Judy Garland, Nat King Cole, Barbra Streisand, Michael Bublé, Cher, Diana Ross, and Celine Dion, to name just a few.
“It doesn’t get any better than UMPG having the honor of representing the timeless cultural songs of Irving Berlin, as well as working with the wonderful Irving Berlin family and Estate.”
Evan Lamberg, UMPG
Evan Lamberg, President of North America, UMPG, said: “I’ve been in the music publishing business my entire working life.
“It doesn’t get any better than UMPG having the honor of representing the timeless cultural songs of Irving Berlin, as well as working with the wonderful Irving Berlin family and Estate.”
“The family of Irving Berlin enthusiastically welcomes the expansion of their 10-year relationship with Universal Music Publishing Group.”
Mary G Campbell, JPMorgan
Mary G Campbell of JPMorgan, on behalf of the legendary songwriter’s estate, said: “The family of Irving Berlin enthusiastically welcomes the expansion of their 10-year relationship with Universal Music Publishing Group and looks forward to continued collaboration as the exclusive global music publisher for Irving Berlin’s extensive catalog.”
“I’m delighted the Irving Berlin family have chosen UMPG as the caretaker of these songs.”
Tom Foster, UMPG
Tom Foster, SVP of Film & TV Europe, UMPG, added: “Irving Berlin is quite simply one of the greats. His songs, laced with romance and wit, continue to inspire generations young and old.
“I’m delighted the Irving Berlin family have chosen UMPG as the caretaker of these songs.”Music Business Worldwide
