In a recent insightful interview with Rock Feed, members of Five Finger Death Punch revealed shocking news regarding the sale of their album masters. The band members were blindsided by this transaction, discovering it only after it had already taken place. This unexpected turn of events raises significant questions about artist rights and transparency in the music industry.

During the interview, guitarist Zoltan Bathory addressed inquiries about the recent sale of their masters, firmly denying any involvement from the band in this decision. “Not exactly,” Bathory clarified, emphasizing the group’s longstanding partnership with their label, which allowed them to share ownership of their music.

“From the very beginning, we entered into a personal partnership with the label. I don’t know if you remember the era when bands often signed 360 deals that included profit-sharing agreements. Under such contracts, artists could produce and release their first records independently,” he elaborated, showcasing the dynamics of their agreement. “We owned the masters jointly with the label,” he continued.

“So, we are co-owners of the masters, and the label sold our rights without informing us,” Bathory added, although he refrained from naming the label involved. “They proceeded with the sale without consulting us or giving us the opportunity to purchase them. I mean, why wouldn’t they at least ask us? These are our masters,” he expressed, highlighting the band’s frustration over the lack of communication.

Could Five Finger Death Punch Become the “Taylor Swift of Metal”?

Following this revelation, Rock Feed suggested that Five Finger Death Punch might find themselves in a situation similar to that of Taylor Swift, who has famously battled with her record company over the ownership of her masters. Swift attempted to buy her masters when her label was sold but faced unfavorable terms that complicated her efforts. Her subsequent decision to re-record her earlier albums under the “Taylor’s Version” label became a pivotal moment in her career.

Swift’s confrontation with the new label ownership ultimately led her to move on once her contract expired, marking a significant chapter in her journey as an artist. This comparison raises intriguing implications for Five Finger Death Punch, as they navigate their own challenges related to ownership and rights.

READ MORE: Chris Kael’s Insightful Journey to Joining Five Finger Death Punch

When asked how they plan to respond to the situation concerning their masters, Bathory stated, “We found out about the sale simultaneously with you. We’re currently contemplating our next steps.”

“Nothing is off the table for us. It’s important to note that we could potentially take a similar approach to Swift’s,” Bathory mentioned, hinting at possible plans. “It’s a strategic game, both in business and life. I could be upset and react impulsively, or I could play it smart and make calculated moves. The label made their play, and now it’s our turn to respond,” he analyzed, reflecting on the complexities of the music business.

Five Finger Death Punch Discuss Future Plans with Rock Feed

What’s Next for Five Finger Death Punch in 2025?

As Five Finger Death Punch navigate the implications of their masters being sold, they also have more concrete plans lined up for 2025. The band has already scheduled several tour dates this year, starting with a performance on July 17 at Milwaukee’s Fiserv Forum. They are also set to participate in various festivals during July and August, including Rock Fest, Inkcarceration, the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally, and Rocklahoma.

For fans eager to catch a live show, all the details about Five Finger Death Punch’s tour dates and ticketing information can be conveniently found on their official website, ensuring that no one misses out on the opportunity to experience their electrifying performances.