The deal also included the trademark Sun Records, which sources say is a very profitable component, as well as the Sun Diner in Nashville and its merchandise business as well. John Singleton – brother of deceased Shelby Singleton who bought the Sun brand in 1969 from the founder and legend of the industry Sam Phillips – will remain in supervision of the operation of Sun Records.
“We are extremely pleased to pass the baton from Sun Records to Primary Wave and we are confident that they will continue to reach new heights for the crown jewel of the music world created by Sam Phillips, which my brother, Shelby and I kept alive and over the past 50 years, ”said John Singleton, president of Sun Entertainment Corp.
Primary Wave will also provide additional resources to expand the Sun Records brand, which can now explore the company’s marketing, branding, digital strategy and licensing and synchronization opportunities.
“Sun Records is the original home of some of the greatest music legends,” said Larry Mestel, CEO and founder of Primary Wave, in a statement. “Sam Phillips treated all his artists with the utmost respect and provided a space for creativity like no other. His vision for Sun aligns perfectly with Primary Wave’s creative ethos, and I am delighted that this historic label is now part of our family. “
Sun Records is currently distributed by the label itself through direct digital licensing agreements and by licensing masters to well-known reissue labels such as Charly Records and Bear Family Records.