Tue May 13 10:50:00 UTC 2025: ## Country Star Zach Bryan Inks $350 Million Deal with Warner Records, Sells Publishing Catalog

**NEW YORK** – Country music superstar Zach Bryan has signed a blockbuster deal with Warner Records, securing his future with the label in a multi-million dollar agreement. Simultaneously, Bryan has either sold or is in the process of selling his music publishing catalog for a combined total exceeding $350 million, sources have confirmed to Variety.

The recorded music deal, reportedly spanning at least two albums, concludes weeks of negotiations and fends off competition from Universal Music Group. This comes despite Bryan’s January social media post hinting at his final album with a major label.

The buyer of Bryan’s publishing catalog is a newly formed entity called the Merrit Group, led by former Warner Bros. Records and Warner Chappell Music CEO Cameron Strang. Gary Gersh, a veteran music executive, is reportedly a partner in the venture. Further details surrounding the Merrit Group and the deal remain undisclosed.

Bryan, one of the biggest names in contemporary country, has been a top performer for Warner Records since his 2022 breakthrough album “American Heartbreak.” His meteoric rise, from independent artist to stadium headliner, includes multiple platinum albums and hit singles such as “Something in the Orange” and “Pink Skies.” This summer, Bryan will headline major festivals including AEG’s Hyde Park BST festival in London and a show at Michigan Stadium.

The news follows Bryan’s announcement of an upcoming film, “Motorbreath,” which will reportedly chronicle the recording of his “final” major label album with a group of friends on a cross-country motorcycle trip. The film features a voiceover introduction by actor Matthew McConaughey. Representatives for Bryan, Strang, Warner Records, and Bryan’s attorney declined to comment on the deals.

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