Former Van Halen member David Lee Roth recently revealed that he recently sold his publishing catalog for a large sum of money.
The Associated Press recently caught up with the former Van Halen singer backstage earlier this month at the first weekend of Coachella, where he made a surprise appearance singing “Jump” with Teddy Swims.
David Lee Roth said he sold his music publishing rights about eight months ago and joked that he now feels “rich,” adding that for the first time he’s financially comfortable and able to earn from his money.
Roth said, “I sold my publishing eight months ago,” and told the AP reporter to ask him how he feels. When the reporter obliged, Roth answered, “Rich! [laughs] For the first time in my life, I can rub two coins together and create a little interest. No, really!”
While Diamond Dave didn’t disclose the exact amount he received for his publishing catalog, its likely well into the tens of millions. Recent similar sales have garnered Bruce Springsteen $500 million, Bob Dylan $300 million, and Sting $300 million.
During the interview, David Lee Roth also highlighted that he and the late Eddie Van Halen wrote all the Van Halen songs from his time in the band. He explained that the Jump’s signature “Eastern European sound block chords” are not typical rock ‘n’ roll, but are instead closer to opera and legitimate theater.
Roth also emphasized that he was deeply involved in the songwriting process, noting that he wrote every note he sang, every word, all the titles, and stacked the harmonies.
“Eddie and I wrote all the songs. I wrote everything I sing. Every note that I sing, every word, all the titles, I stacked the harmonies, that was my job. If you’re singing it, Roth was bringing it.”
