AceShowbiz - Justin Timberlake has sold his song catalogue in a deal reportedly worth $100 million. The "SexyBack" hitmaker is "excited to be partnering with" Hipgnosis Song Management and a $1 billion fund supported by the private equity firm Blackstone, according to The Guardian newspaper.

"I am excited to be partnering with Merck and Hipgnosis - he values artists and their creative work and has always been a strong supporter of songwriters and storytelling," the 41-year-old entertainer, who has sons 7-year-old Silas and 2-year-old Phineas with actress wife Jessica Biel, said. "I look forward to entering this next chapter."

The deal between the former NSYNC star and the management company gives them 100 per cent control and ownership over his stake in more than 200 songs he has been involved in writing.

The founder and CEO of Hipgnosis, Merck Mercuriadis, said, "Justin Timberlake is not only one of the most influential artists of the last 20 years but he's also one of the greatest songwriters of all time. His hit songs including 'Cry Me a River', 'Rock Your Body', 'SexyBack', 'My Love', 'What Goes Around… Comes Around', 'Suit & Tie', 'Mirrors' and 'Can't Stop the Feeling' are amongst the most iconic of the period."

Merck additionally noted in his statement, "Justin's incredible catalogue will join other amazing works at Hipgnosis which we know will serve as a great steward of his work. We look forward to a great partnership between Justin and Hipgnosis."

This arrangement with Justin is the third one finalized by Hipgnosis Song Capital in 2022. It has snapped up the late singer-songwriter Leonard Cohen's share of catalogue and 80 per cent of the royalties of country star Kenny Chesney.

Hipgnosis Song Management offers investors the chance to earn royalties from the work of a diverse range artists, such as Barry Manilow and Beyonce Knowles.