Primary Wave Acquires Rights from Estate of Fleetwood Mac’s Peter Green

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On Monday, it was announced that Primary Wave has obtained the rights to publish the songs written by Fleetwood Mac’s founder and original guitarist, Peter Green. This includes Green’s ownership stake in his compositions as well as the assets of his Rattlesnake music publishing collection.

In this transaction, Fleetwood Mac’s initial hits composed by Green, such as “Albatross,” “Black Magic Woman,” and “Oh Well,” were not revealed financially by the Primary Wave.

Primary Wave chose to keep confidential the financial aspects of the acquisition, which involves the early Fleetwood Mac songs penned by Green, including “Albatross,” “Black Magic Woman,” and “Oh Well.

Peter Green co-established Fleetwood Mac back in the late ’60s, joining forces with Mick Fleetwood and John McVie. They initially formed as a blues rock band. A self-penned instrumental track titled “Albatross” became their initial chart-topper in the U.K. However, “Black Magic Woman” gained popularity through Santana and remains one of his enduring hits for over five decades. Green released three albums with the group before his struggle with mental health issues (eventually diagnosed as schizophrenia) led to his departure in 1970. By the mid-’70s, Lindsey Buckingham and Stevie Nicks had joined the band, marking the period that propelled them to international fame.

In the past, Primary Wave has made more than one deal with Fleetwood Mac; they acquired a portion of Stevie Nicks’ catalog in 2020. Besides Primary Wave, Lindsey Buckingham sold his catalog to Hipgnosis Songs, Mick Fleetwood sold his recorded music rights to BMG, and Christine McVie’s estate sold her share of the recorded music to HarbourView in 2023.

The late musician Green, who passed away in 2020 at the age of 73, is frequently hailed as one of the greatest guitarists in history. Renowned for his distinctive sound and innovative, virtuosic take on the blues, he left an indelible mark on the music world. One of his most famous guitars, a 1959 Gibson Les Paul, is itself a legendary instrument among guitarists due to its unique tone – one of its pickups was installed upside down inside the guitar. This iconic guitar, nicknamed “Greeny,” is currently owned by Kirk Hammett of Metallica. Known for occasionally gifting replicas of this special instrument to other musicians.

Green, who died in 2020 at age 73, was a legendary guitarist known for his unique blues style and distinct tone. One of his guitars, a 1959 Gibson Les Paul, is famous because one of its pickups was installed upside down. This special guitar, called “Greeny,” belongs to Kirk Hammett from Metallica, who sometimes gives replicas to other musicians.

Robin Godfrey Cass from Primary Wave commented, stating that when one considers the essence of a musical genius, Peter Green fits the bill perfectly. He excels as a musician, songwriter, and founder of Fleetwood Mac, making him an undeniable icon. Over six decades ago, he started penning his timeless songs, many of which are still being played today. I’m thrilled that the estate has entrusted Primary Wave with the responsibility to carry on his remarkable legacy.

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2025-07-15 16:54