Sony Music (SME) announced it has fully required the extent of Bob Dylan's recorded music catalogue, beginning with his 1962 self-titled debut album and concluding with his 2020 acclaimed album, Rough and Rowdy Ways.

The purchase also includes the rights to multiple future releases. The company called the purchase an "expansion of the six-decade relationship between SME and Dylan."

Dylan and SME are slated to collaborate on future catalogue reissues in the artist's rare and unreleased catalog called the Bootleg Series. The agreement provides the opportunity for SME to partner with Dylan on additional projects.

Dylan reached his 60th anniversary with SME's Columbia Records this year. In October of 1961, the label's John Hammond recorded Dylan's debut album.

"His Bob Dylan album marked the start of an unparalleled musical journey by a master of music who continues to have a profound and global impact on culture," SME said in a statement.

Rob Stringer, current chairman of Sony Music Group, commented on the purchase saying, "Bob is one of music’s greatest icons and an artist of unrivalled genius. The essential impact he and his recordings continue to have on popular culture is second to none and we’re thrilled he will now be a permanent member of the Sony Music family."

“Columbia Records and Rob Stringer have been nothing but good to me for many, many years and a whole lot of records. I’m glad that all my recordings can stay where they belong,” Dylan said.

Watch the full announcement video below.

May your song always be sung
And may you stay forever young

Bob Dylan signed to Columbia Records in 1961 and today Sony Music announced it has fully acquired his entire catalog of recorded music, as well as the rights to multiple future new releases. pic.twitter.com/hdVaHGkuhi

— Sony Music News (@sonymusicnews) January 24, 2022

Revisit one of Hot Press' most read articles of 2021, 'Springtime In New York: The Bootleg Series Vol. 16 (1980-1985)', here.