Bernie Taupin has said that he and Elton John have no intention of selling their publishing rights, arguing that neither needs the money. The decision sets them apart from several high-profile artists who have recently sold music catalogues, and reflects their wish to retain control over work created during a long-running songwriting partnership.

Taupin, who has written lyrics for many of Elton John’s best-known songs, did not give further financial or contractual details in the supplied article text. Music publishing rights can generate income through recordings, streaming, licensing and other uses, making established catalogues valuable assets for artists and investors.