Michael McDonald Signs Publishing Deal With Kobalt Music

Legendary singer-songwriter Michael McDonald has signed a publishing administration deal with Kobalt Music, the company announced on Thursday (April 18).

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The worldwide agreement includes administrative, creative and global synch services for the former Doobie Brother‘s entire catalogue and any future works.

“Having penned some of the most significant songs of the last fifty years, Michael’s catalogue is a treasure trove of hits,” said Kobalt Music executive vp business development Merril Wasserman-Serling in a statement. “Michael continues to write and I’m certain that more great songs are on the horizon. It’s an honor to welcome him to the Kobalt family and look forward to working closely with him and his team.”   

“I’m very excited about my new affiliation with Kobalt Music Publishing,” McDonald added. “I look forward to working with Laurent Hubert, Merril Wasserman and the entire Kobalt team in the years ahead.”

Known as an influential figure in the “yacht rock” aesthetic that gained prominence in the late ’70s and early ’80s, as well as for his early work singing backup for Steely Dan, McDonald rose to stardom as the lead vocalist for The Doobie Brothers, singing on such hit singles as “Takin’ It the the Streets,” “What a Fool Believes” and “Real Love.” As a solo artist he minted a further string of hits, including “I Keep Forgettin’ (Every Time You’re Near),” “Sweet Freedom” and the Hot 100 No. 1 single “On My Own” with Patti Labelle. He has also won five Grammys, including record of the year and song of the year for “What a Fool Believes.”

McDonald is currently on a North American co-headling tour with Chaka Khan. He continues to collaborate with other artists, including recent work with Barbra Streisand, Thundercat and Nashville duo Johnnyswim.