Mannie Fresh Becomes Latest Hip-Hop Artist to Sell Their Catalog to Reservoir Media

Mannie Fresh has become the latest mainstream hip-hop act to sell their publishing rights.

Mannie Fresh is going where the money resides. On Friday (April 14), the former Cash Money Records artist announced that he is selling his music catalog to New York City-based company Reservoir Media, although the purchase amount has not been publicly disclosed.

The 54-year-old producer joins hip-hop acts like Dr. Dre, Future, Iggy Azalea and Metro Boomin, who have all recently sold at least a portion of their publishing rights or full back catalogs to various companies.

“It’s great to be joining up with Faith Newman and the entire Reservoir team,” said the producer in a statement. “I’m grateful for their support, and I know they’ll take care of my music.”

“Mannie’s clever production cultivated a powerful moment for Southern hip-hop, and his distinctive sound helped pave the way for other producers for years to come,” added Reservoir Executive Vice President of A&R and Catalog Development Faith Newman. “I have personally been a fan of his for decades, and it’s a pleasure to bring him into the Reservoir family.”

“It means a lot to me to continue to build Reservoir’s connection to creators like Mannie, who represents the highest caliber of contemporary music from New Orleans, and we’re pleased to be the new stewards of his hit music,” said Rell Lafargue, Reservoir President and Chief Operating Officer, who was born and raised in Louisiana.

Fresh, legal name Otto Thomas, has produced for the likes of Lil Wayne, Birdman, Webbie, Chingy, T.I. and more. His last album was 2009’s Return of the Ballin’. Could the New Orleans hitmaker have a possible spot on Juvenile’s upcoming NPR Tiny Desk Concert? Stay tuned for more.