BMG has completed its full acquisition of the publishing catalogues of blues legend John Lee Hooker, celebrated lyricist Hal David and the historic ARC Music archive, taking outright ownership of works that have shaped American popular music. The deal finalises a transaction first set in motion in 2016, when BMG took a majority stake in ARC Music from Fuji Music Group, and follows a 2022 agreement in which BMG co-acquired Hooker's rights alongside Fuji. The move consolidates BMG's control over some of the most influential songwriting in blues, pop and rock history.

Hal David, best known for his partnership with Burt Bacharach and Dionne Warwick, wrote hits including "Walk On By", "I Say A Little Prayer" and "What's New Pussycat?", while John Lee Hooker's catalogue includes "Boom Boom" and "Boogie Chillen'". ARC Music, founded in 1948 by Leonard and Phil Chess as the publishing arm of Chess Records, holds songs made famous by Chuck Berry, Muddy Waters, Howlin' Wolf and Etta James, among others. BMG's Monti Olson said the acquisition strengthens the company's position as custodian of significant American musical heritage for future generations.