Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs Gives His Bad Boy Publishing Rights Back to Artists, Songwriters

In a groundbreaking announcement made on September 4th, Sean “Diddy” Combs has made a momentous decision to relinquish the publishing rights of Bad Boy Records to its artists and songwriters. This unexpected move disrupts long-standing industry norms where record labels traditionally retained control over the creative work of their signed talent.

As reported by REVOLT, this announcement marks a seismic shift in an industry often criticized for its exploitative business practices. For years, record labels have reaped the majority of revenue generated by an artist’s creative output, prompting concerns about the fairness of such arrangements. Now, Combs is taking steps to redistribute this wealth directly to the artists.

Since its inception in 1993, Bad Boy Records had adhered to industry standards by retaining publishing rights. However, Diddy’s perspective evolved significantly over the years. Artists like Faith Evans, Ma$e, The LOX, and 112, as well as the estate of the late Notorious B.I.G., are among those who will benefit from this policy shift.

Insiders reveal that Combs’ decision followed his rejection of numerous lucrative offers to sell the company’s publishing rights. Instead, the music mogul has chosen a more equitable approach by transferring the rights to the artists and songwriters who played a pivotal role in the label’s success.

This momentous decision coincides with the 30th anniversary of Bad Boy Records and follows a period of public friction between Diddy and former Bad Boy artist Ma$e. The dispute peaked when Ma$e criticized the Recording Academy for its treatment of Black artists. Last year, the “Feel So Good” artist even offered $2 million to repurchase his publishing rights.

In related news, Diddy’s upcoming sixth studio album, “The Love Album: Off the Grid,” is scheduled for release on September 15th. The album will feature a mix of established acts like John Legend, Babyface, and Mary J. Blige, as well as emerging stars such as H.E.R., Jozzy, Kalan.FrFr, and Summer Walker.