Sonorous Entertainment Inc. Acquires the Legendary House of Beauty (HOB) Records Catalog

Boca Raton, FL, November 06, 2011 — (PR.com) — Newly founded Sonorous Entertainment has finalized its purchase of the seminal House of Beauty (HOB) gospel music catalog.

The catalog of recordings which includes performances by Shirley Caesar, Rev. James Cleveland, The Blind Boys of Alabama, The Mighty Clouds of Joy, The Swan Silvertones, and dozens of other gospel legends was on the brink of disappearing into total obscurity forever.

In 2008 the rights to the catalog had fallen into receivership and no buyer had come forth. When it became clear that this music would never see the light day again if no buyer was found, CEO Dwayne Bigelow, a philanthropist, minister, and venture capitalist stepped up to the plate.

In addition to over 3,000 sound recording copyrights, the catalog purchase also includes the publishing rights to over 200 songs. While most labels don’t own any publishing rights to their material, this unique scenario will position Sonorous to be a competitive force in the world of music retail. The ability to utilize songs owned by the label will mean they can better appeal to today’s price conscious consumer. Additionally, the ability to “pre-clear” (approve licenses without third party approval) content for film and television use means that next time you hear a 60s or 70s black gospel recording in a movie or TV show, it very well could be from Sonorous.

HOB Records was founded in 1958 by Carmen Murphy in the basement of her Beauty Salon for black women. Eventually ownership of the label changed hands 3 times before being rescued by Sonorous. Because the label was started and run for years as a bootstrap operation, and due to the fact that it changed hands a few times, much of the organization and history of the label has become very muddled. To help give these historically significant recordings the treatment they deserve, Sonorous Entertainment is now overseeing the digital transfer of all 5,000 tracks (about 3,000 unique recordings).

“It’s very important to us that this process be handled with the utmost care and integrity. Our job here is not only to preserve this rich history, but also to enhance the quality of these recordings,” said Sonorous Entertainment CEO, Dwayne Bigelow. Additionally, the label is investing considerable time and treasure into the unearthing and restoration of original HOB photos and packaging art that have not been seen in decades. The attention to detail displayed is sure to pay off down the road for Sonorous as it begins to release material from the HOB catalog.

Some people like to take short cuts, others trust that by taking the time to do things right you will find more success in life and in business. Sonorous Entertainment Inc. clearly falls into the latter.

For more on Sonorous Entertainment Inc. please visit the website at www.sonorousentertainment.com