Iconoclast has officially acquired the publishing rights to the catalog of Grammy-winning hip-hop artist Eve.
Eve, a trailblazer in the industry, first rose to prominence in the late 1990s with her debut album Let There Be Eve… Ruff Ryders’ First Lady, becoming the third female rapper in history to reach No.1 in the US.
Her chart-topping hits include Gangsta Lovin’, Love Is Blind, and Who’s That Girl. Eve also collaborated with renowned artists like The Roots, Missy Elliott, and Alicia Keys. Let Me Blow Ya Mind, her iconic track featuring Gwen Stefani, was notably sampled by Central Cee on his 2022 hit Doja.
In addition to her music career, Eve has made a name for herself as an actress, starring in films like the Barbershopfranchise and headlining her own sitcom, Eve, from 2003 to 2006. She also co-hosted CBS’s The Talk. Recently, she released her memoir, Who’s That Girl?.
In the memoir, she revealed having a conversation with Jay Z about about female rappers “not doing that well,” following the release of her debut album. In her memoir Who’s That Girl?, Eve recalls JAY-Z advising her not to expect much success when she released her debut album Let There Be Eve… Ruff Ryders’ First Lady. However, the album topped the Billboard 200 and sold over 2 million copies. On The Breakfast Club, Eve explained she didn’t take his comment maliciously, but used it as motivation. She also discussed facing disrespect from men in the industry but chose not to name anyone in her memoir.
Olivier Chastan, founder and CEO of Iconoclast, commented: “Eve’s contributions to hip-hop and popular culture are unmatched. She’s not only a phenomenal artist but also a trailblazer for women in the genre. We are honored to preserve and elevate her legacy, ensuring her impact continues to inspire future generations.”
The deal was facilitated by Henry Root of Smith Entertainment Law for Iconoclast, and Michael Poster of Michelman & Robinson. Eve was represented by Wayne Russell and Pippa Wealthall of Massive Management, alongside Talya Shalsom and Tim Smith of Statham Gill Davies Law. Benjamin Vermeil of Jab Music played a key role in facilitating the transaction.
