Paul Simon, 79, sells entire catalogue in Sony Music Publishing deal

Paul Simon has become the latest artist to sell their entire music collection in a deal with Sony Music Publishing.

The 79-year-old rocker's deal covers over six decades worth of music from Simon & Garfunkel hits such as Bridge Over Troubled Water to solo tracks such as 50 Ways To Leave Your Lover.

The value of the deal is undisclosed, by Simon has said that he was 'pleased' to have Sony as 'custodian of my songs for the coming decades'.

He added: 'I began my career at Columbia/Sony Records and it feels like a natural extension to be working with the Publishing side as well.' 

The star's back catalogue includes a plethora of solo hits and songs from his partnership with Art Garfunkel including The Sound Of Silence, The Boxer, Mrs Robinson, You Can Call Me Al and Me And Julio Down By The Schoolyard.

Sony Music Publishing chairman John Platt said of the deal: 'From Simon and Garfunkel standards like Bridge Over Troubled Water to solo classics such as Graceland, Paul Simon's music resonates deeply as a cultural touchstone for people all over the world.'

New Jersey-born Paul started his music career as a folk singer in the 1950's before forming duo Simon & Garfunkel in 1956 with his childhood friend Art, with the pair inspired by the music of the Everly Brothers. 

Paul, who composed nearly all of their original songs, enjoyed a successful career following their split in 1970.

He retired from touring in 2018, though he has not ruled out on-off concerts.

Paul joins a long list of music artists who've handed over their publishing rights to record companies.

Neil Young sold 50% of his catalogue Hipgnosis Songs Fund for approximately $150m (£109m) in January this year,

While Bob Dylan earned almost $400m (£290m) after selling his songs to Universal Music.

Meanwhile Stevie Nicks, Debbie Harry and Shakira are among other big names to trade their future royalties for huge sums of money. 

While Dolly Parton, 75, said last year that she's considering selling her catalogue for 'business reasons' and 'family things'.

Dolly, who's hits include I Will Always Love You, 9 to 5 and Jolen, told Music Week in December: 'I’ve owned my own publishing company for years and years. 

'It’s very possible that, for business reasons, estate planning, and family things, I might sell the catalogue I have now. I’ve often thought about it and I’m sure that I could get a lot of money for it.' 

Reference: daily mail: Niomi Harris For Mailonline  5 hrs ago