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dua lipa

Dua Lipa Takes Control: Owns Publishing Rights to Her Music

In a recent interview with the Audacy Check In podcast, Dua Lipa revealed that she purchased the publishing rights to her music catalog from TAP Music earlier this year. The pop star, aged 28, expressed her long-standing desire to be in control of her own music, emphasizing the importance for young artists to understand the business aspect of the music industry, especially in the early stages of their careers.

Lipa, who acquired her catalog this month, acknowledged the influence of Taylor Swift‘s well-publicized battle for ownership of her early albums. Swift, in response to Scooter Braun’s acquisition of her first six albums, has been re-recording her catalog to regain control over her songs.

While Lipa clarified that Swift’s situation didn’t directly inspire her own move, she highlighted how it prompted many artists to become more aware of the business side of music. “I think what happened to Taylor obviously was something that completely started getting people to understand they should have a lawyer and understand the business of music, for sure,” said Lipa.

The singer further explained her decision, stating, “I think owning your publishing was just something that I really wanted to have. I think a lot of artists go, like, independent or do their own thing. I just wanted to have my whole catalogue under my own company, which is something I started this year, which is publishing and a production company. I just wanted to have everything under one umbrella. It just felt like a new chapter!”

Dua Lipa visits the SiriusXM studios in Los Angeles
Dua Lipa in Los Angeles on Nov. 13, 2023. EMMA MCINTYRE/GETTY IMAGES

This move aligns with a broader trend in the industry where artists are increasingly taking control of their masters and publishing rights, seeking independence and creative autonomy.

In a separate interview with The Hollywood Reporter’s Songwriter Roundtable, Lipa discussed her involvement in creating “Dance the Night,” a Grammy-nominated hit for the Barbie film’s soundtrack. The song, created in collaboration with producer Mark Ronson, showcases Lipa’s versatility and creative flair.

With her publishing rights secured, Dua Lipa is poised to continue influencing the music industry on her terms.

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