Billboard.com
Fresh off securing a $267 million asset-backed facility to accelerate its purchasing spree, Seeker Music Group has added another act to its growing portfolio: the catalog of synth-pop duo Nu Shooz.
Best known for their 1986 crossover smash “I Can’t Wait,” the Portland-born pair, guitarist John Smith and vocalist/percussionist Valerie Day, captured a defining moment in mid-’80s pop. The track climbed to No. 3 on the Billboard Hot 100 and anchored their album “Poolside,” which achieved gold status following its release via Atlantic Records. A subsequent single, “Point of No Return,” further cemented their chart presence, while the duo’s commercial breakthrough earned them a Best New Artist nomination at the 1987 Grammy Awards.
The acquisition folds both master recordings and publishing rights into Seeker’s catalog, placing Nu Shooz alongside a diverse roster that spans Christopher Cross, Joan Jett, Run the Jewels, Charlotte Caffey and Jon Bellion. The move reflects Seeker’s ongoing focus on culturally resonant catalogs.
For Seeker, the appeal lies in durability. “I Can’t Wait” remains a staple of retro playlists and continues to find new audiences decades after its release, making it a prime candidate for revitalization across film, television and digital platforms. The company’s strategy hinges on reactivating such catalogs, pairing nostalgia with modern discovery mechanics to extend their lifecycle.
For Nu Shooz, the deal signals a new chapter. With Seeker’s creative and commercial infrastructure behind them, their catalog is poised for renewed visibility, bridging a distinctly ‘80s sound with contemporary listeners in an era where catalog consumption is more valuable than ever.
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