BMG Acquires Publishing Catalog of The Living End's Chris Cheney
BMG has announced the acquisition of the publishing catalog belonging to Chris Cheney, the frontman, songwriter, and guitarist of the Australian rock band The Living End. This agreement follows just days after the trio's induction into the 2026 ARIA Hall of Fame. The deal expands BMG's existing relationship with Cheney, having served as his global publisher since 2016 and the band's global label since 2018. Financial specifics of the acquisition were not disclosed.
BMG has acquired the publishing catalog of Chris Cheney, the frontman, songwriter, and guitarist for the Australian rock band The Living End. The announcement was made shortly after the trio was inducted into the 2026 ARIA Hall of Fame.
This acquisition deepens BMG's longstanding relationship with Cheney and the band. BMG has operated as Cheney’s global publisher since 2016 and has been The Living End's global label since 2018. The financial terms of the new agreement have not been publicly disclosed.
Cheney commented on the deal, expressing his passion for songwriting and the strong connection his band's catalog has with their global audience. He stated his honor in partnering with BMG, noting their shared enthusiasm for music.
The Living End, formed in Melbourne in the 1990s, established a reputation as a dynamic live act known for its blend of rockabilly, pop-punk, and indie rock. The band's self-titled 1998 debut album topped the ARIA Chart and remains a top-selling Australian rock album, featuring the anthem “Second Solution / Prisoner of Society.”
Comprised of Cheney, Scott Owen, and Andy Strachan, the band has achieved significant success, including two No. 1 albums, six ARIA Awards, and an APRA Song of the Year award. Their album *I Only Trust Rock ’N’ Roll*, released last year, reached No. 5 on the all-genres ARIA Chart.
The Living End was inducted into the ARIA Hall of Fame on June 11 during a ceremony in Sydney. Other inductees included Gurrumul, Jenny Morris, Kate Ceberano, Spiderbait, and Vika & Linda.
Heath Johns, President of Australia, New Zealand, and Southeast Asia for BMG, stated that The Living End's music has been the soundtrack to many Australian experiences and has earned cult status internationally. He added that BMG is honored that Cheney chose them as the permanent home for these publishing rights and looks forward to new opportunities for the catalog.
According to Billboard, Cheney's statement was issued on Wednesday, June 17.
