Firm closes “Spirit in the Sky” sale

December 11, 2018 -- Partner David Given and of counsel attorney Elliot Cahn have completed their representation of Trans/Tone Productions and Great Honesty Music in the sale of the master recording of and song copyright in the 1969 smash hit “Spirit in the Sky” to Concord Music. The song was written and originally recorded by Norman Greenbaum and produced by Erik Jacobsen (who also produced the Lovin' Spoonful’s biggest hits as well as Chris Isaak’s multi-platinum “Wicked Game"), and went on to sell two million copies in the U.S.  Greenbaum's version was the last single released in the 1960s to reach the top of the U.S. charts. It also reached #1 in the U.K., Germany, Australia, and Canada, and was later featured in innumerable films and advertising campaigns.  It is unique among hit songs: Three different recorded versions by three different artists in three different decades have reached #1 on the U.K. charts.  Says Cahn, “It was interesting how the deal ended up with Concord.  I was on the phone with their general counsel, whom I’ve known for nearly 40 years, talking about another matter. I asked almost in passing if Concord might be interested in “Spirit." I got a call with an enthusiastic yes later that afternoon, and there was a great offer on my desk within a few days.  Sometimes these long-standing relationships really do pay off.” Says Given, "It was an honor and a privilege to represent the rights-holders in this incredible song and recording. It doesn't get much better." Terms of the deal remain confidential.