Primary Wave Music Acquires Rights to Jerry Jeff Walker's Musical Legacy
Primary Wave Music has partnered with Jerry Jeff Walker's estate, acquiring rights to the legendary country and folk singer-songwriter's music publishing catalog, recording copyrights, and artist royalties.
Jerry Jeff Walker wearing black hat
The deal encompasses Walker's biggest hits across his 50-year career, including "Mr. Bojangles," "Sangria Wine," "Railroad Lady," and "Trashy Women." His most notable song, "Mr. Bojangles" (1968), became an American pop standard and earned a Grammy nomination, later covered by artists like Bob Dylan, Harry Belafonte, and Nina Simone.
The partnership includes distribution of Walker's recorded masters through Sun Records, in collaboration with his label Tried & True Music. Sun Records will manage catalog marketing, streaming strategy, and physical releases.
As one of the pioneers of Austin's music scene in the early 1970s alongside Willie Nelson, Walker influenced numerous artists including Robert Earl Keen, Pat Green, Jack Ingram, and Garth Brooks. His legacy includes both his original compositions and his celebration of fellow musicians like Guy Clark and Townes Van Zandt.
Susan Walker, Jerry Jeff's wife and manager, commented on the partnership: "When JJ passed, Jimmy Buffett was first at my door asking what he could do. 'Help me find the perfect home for JJ's catalog and label,' I asked. And he did. May both their words and songs be remembered and cherished forever."
The agreement provides access to Primary Wave's marketing team and publishing infrastructure, focusing on new marketing, branding, digital opportunities, and potential film and television projects.