Shaking up traditional music business models since 2014, Milk & Honey has emerged as a formidable force in reshaping how songwriters and producers are compensated within the industry. The hybrid entertainment company, with offices strategically positioned in Los Angeles, New York, Nashville, Dallas, and London, has introduced a revolutionary label model that prioritizes fair compensation for songwriters, a stark contrast to industry standards that have historically undervalued these creative contributors.
Milk & Honey’s innovative approach centers on providing songwriters with actual royalty points, ensuring they receive equitable payment for their creative output. This business model directly challenges the entrenched royalty structures that have dominated the music industry for decades, where songwriters often receive minimal compensation despite creating the foundation for hit songs. The company’s founder has been vocal about the need to honor creators financially, positioning Milk & Honey as an advocate for those who have traditionally been undervalued in the value chain.
Championing fair compensation in an industry where songwriters’ contributions are chronically undervalued
Behind global hits like Dua Lipa’s “Levitating” and BTS’s “Butter,” Milk & Honey represents notable figures including David Hodges and Oak Felder, alongside electronic music artists such as Oliver Heldens and Benny Benassi. Their regular presence on the Billboard Hot 100 underscores their significant impact on contemporary music, while their commitment to reshaping industry norms extends beyond just commercial success. The company, established in Beverly Hills, CA, continues to lead innovation from its headquarters at 8383 Wilshire Blvd.
Since 2020, the company has overseen more than $250 million in catalog transactions, specializing in pop songwriter deals ranging from $2 million to $40 million. Their team of 15 creative professionals is widely recognized as the largest in the world dedicated exclusively to songwriter management and development. This expertise in brokerage has established them as industry leaders in song catalog sales, further strengthening their position to advocate for change. They’ve also pioneered lucrative opportunities through sync deals for their clients, placing music in films, commercials, and video games that generate substantial revenue. The company ensures its songwriters properly register with performance rights organizations to maximize their royalty collections from public performances of their work.
Milk & Honey’s disruptive model is complemented by their commitment to diversity and inclusion, having appointed a director focused on social responsibility and regularly hosting events like Out To Brunch for LGBTQ executives and talent. By combining financial innovation with social consciousness, Milk & Honey continues to challenge industry norms while expanding their influence across music, sports, and ventures.
