Friday, April 4, 2008

Music 360 Watchdoggin': JAY-Z TO SIGN $150 MILLION LIVE NATION DEAL: Rapper to leave Def Jam for one of richest contracts ever


Shawn "Jay-Z" Carter is reportedly ready to sign with concert promoter Live Nation in a 10-year deal worth about $150 million, a total that rivals the biggest music contracts ever, the New York Times reported.
The rap tycoon will officially bounce from his longtime record label, Def Jam, and enter into a partnership that includes recordings and tours – as well as the financing of his new entertainment venture Roc Nation - an umbrella company that will include his own label, music publishing, and talent consulting and managing. The venture would split profits with Jay-Z.
The rap mogul will reportedly receive $25 million upfront and another $10 million each for at least three studio albums. The deal also includes $25 million for concert tours and $50 million to finance his other investments.
Jay-Z's partnership is the latest in a series of new pacts between Live Nation and mega-entertainers. Earlier this week, the company announced a 12-year agreement to handle the merchandising, digital and branding rights and touring of Irish group U2.
Live Nation, which unveiled a $120 million deal with Madonna five months ago, has been expanding its business model to develop more far-reaching and deeper relationships with artists beyond just handling their touring as CD sales plunge.
Jay-Z, 38, in December left his post as president of Def Jam Records, saying he wanted to "take on new challenges."

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