Primary Wave Inks Catalog Deal with Kool & the Gang’s Robert “Kool” Bell

Independent publisher Primary Wave Music has partnered with Robert “Kool” Bell, the singer, songwriter and founding member of GRAMMY-winning act Kool & the Gang.

The deal:

• The partnership covers Bell’s catalog of music and recordings.

• The publisher will also work closely with the musician on new name, image, and likeness opportunities.

• Bell will gain access to Primary Wave’s marketing team and publishing infrastructure, which includes digital strategy, licensing, sync opportunities, and film and TV production.

Rich catalog:

• The partnership encompasses some of Bell’s and Kool & the Gang’s biggest hits, including “Jungle Boogie,” “Cherish,” “Celebration,” and “Ladies Night.”

• Kool & the Gang has sold over 70 million albums worldwide, and was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2024.

What they said:

• David Weitzman, Primary Wave: “Kool’s role as the last surviving founding member of Kool & the Gang makes this partnership especially meaningful. As a true pioneer of funk and popular music, Kool has carried the group’s vision, spirit, and legacy forward for decades. At Primary Wave, we are honored to partner with him to preserve, protect, and amplify this iconic catalog for generations to come.”

• Mohamed Moretta, Managing Partner, Kool Moretta Media: “We’ve developed multiple brands on our own, such as The Just Kool Party, Le Kool Champagne, and Kool King Coconut Water. Our partnership with Primary Wave will take these projects, as well as our upcoming Be Kool Musical, to another level.”