Photo Credit: Biz Markie by George Dubose
Downtown Music Publishing announces a new deal to represent the catalog of hip-hop pioneer Biz Markie, including name, image, and likeness rights.
Downtown Music Publishing (DMP) has announced a new deal to represent the catalog of pioneering hip-hop legend Biz Markie, including representation of the late artist’s name, image, and likeness (NIL) rights alongside publishing administration and sync licensing.
Biz Markie’s catalog and associated rights are managed under the direction of Tara Hall, widow of Marcel Hall (Biz Markie) and executor of the estate. Recorded music assets are managed through Revilo Records, with distribution and catalog services provided in partnership with Rhino Entertainment and Warner Music Group.
Publishing interests are represented through Surrey Lane Publishing and administered by Downtown Music Publishing, while The Biz Markie Experience oversees name, image, and likeness, as well as intellectual property and experiential initiatives, with administration handled by DMP.
The agreement marks a significant addition to Downtown’s growing roster of influential artists, underscoring the company’s commitment to honoring and expanding the reach of cultural figures across the industry.
“Biz Markie was a truly original producer, performer, and cultural force,” said Jedd Katrancha, Chief Creative Officer, Downtown Music Publishing. “We’re honored to be entrusted with preserving and amplifying his legacy.”
Best known for the timeless hit “Just a Friend,” Biz Markie became one of hip-hop’s most beloved personalities, celebrated for his humor, inventiveness, and creativity. Initially underestimated by the industry, the track went on to become a global pop phenomenon that continues to resonate across generations. His work not only helped define the golden age of hip-hop but also opened doors for artists across genres.
The announcement arrives on the 40th anniversary of Make the Music With Your Mouth, Biz, the 1986 debut that introduced Biz Markie and his unmistakable style. Four decades later, the new partnership with Tara Hall, executor of his estate, and Surrey Lane Publishing marks the beginning of a new chapter and renewed commitment to elevating Biz Markie’s legacy.
“There’s a longer story behind this, but one day I asked Biz, ‘Who do you think I am to you?’ His reply runs through my mind every day. Biz answered, ‘You are my future.’ Going through his music, photographs, and videos from the beginning of his career has been incredibly meaningful,” shared Tara Hall, Biz Markie’s widow and executor of The Biz Markie Estate.
“As we approach the 40th anniversary of Make the Music With Your Mouth, Biz, I’m excited to share these pieces of his story and celebrate the creativity and spirit that made Biz who he was. In many ways, I’m creating a blueprint for how to honor a legend while finding new ways for his work to live on for future generations. Biz preserved his legacy, and now it’s my job to protect it.”