NEW YORK – In a landmark move within the music industry, Swedish entertainment firm Pophouse Entertainment has secured the name, image, and likeness rights of the legendary Tina Turner, alongside a majority stake in her extensive music catalog from BMG. The acquisition, announced Thursday, marks another significant expansion for the company co-founded by ABBA’s Björn Ulvaeus, renowned for its pioneering work in digital avatars and immersive entertainment experiences.
While financial specifics remain undisclosed, Pophouse CEO Jessica Koravos emphasized the unique visual and energetic stage presence that made Turner an iconic figure. “We are deeply focused on developing projects that can portray and recreate her incredible dynamism,” Koravos told The Associated Press. She further highlighted the company’s commitment to consolidating Turner’s legacy, placing her among cultural icons like Elvis Presley and Marilyn Monroe.
Although Koravos did not confirm plans for a digital avatar, she indicated that specific projects would be unveiled within the next six months. The late Tina Turner, hailed as the ‘Queen of Rock ‘n’ Roll,’ passed away in 2023 at the age of 83. Her illustrious career included 12 Grammy Awards, dual inductions into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, and global record sales exceeding 150 million copies.
Negotiations for this acquisition commenced following Turner’s passing. BMG retains a minority share of her catalog, and Turner’s estate was kept informed throughout the process though not directly involved as a negotiating party.
Alistair Norbury, President of BMG U.K., Continental Europe, and APAC, stated: “Tina Turner’s voice and spirit shaped modern music and popular culture. Our responsibility, alongside Pophouse and the Estate, is to ensure her work continues to resonate with global audiences while honoring the strength and originality that defined her career.”
This transaction aligns with Pophouse’s strategy of acquiring culturally significant music properties. Earlier in 2024, the company acquired Kiss’s catalog, brand, and intellectual property in a deal valued at over $300 million. That partnership already yielded digitized avatars of the band, developed using cutting-edge technology from Industrial Light & Magic—the same collaboration behind the acclaimed ‘ABBA Voyage’ virtual concert experience in London.
Similarly, Cyndi Lauper entered a partnership with Pophouse this year, selling a majority share of her music catalog. Lauper praised the company for its innovative, artist-forward approach, contrasting it with traditional music executives who she said often lack creative vision.
Koravos emphasized that Pophouse distinguishes itself from major labels by focusing on a curated portfolio of unique artistic legacies. “We aim to acquire 10 to 12 exceptional properties and support the creative visions attached to them,” she noted, underscoring the company’s intent to help artists and estates realize ambitious multimedia projects.