Seeker Music acquires Nu Shooz synth-pop catalog
Seeker Music, a songwriter-led music rights and publishing company, has acquired the masters and publishing catalog of the Grammy-nominated synth-pop duo Nu Shooz.
The agreement includes the group’s 1986 album “Poolside” and their breakout hit “I Can’t Wait,” which reached No. 3 on the Billboard Hot 100. The acquisition coincides with the 40th anniversary of the global hit, which originated as a remix by Dutch DJ Peter Slaghuis before becoming an international R&B and pop staple.
Founded by guitarist John Smith and vocalist Valerie Day, the Portland-based group evolved from a jazz-funk ensemble into a defining act of the 1980s dance landscape. With this acquisition, the Nu Shooz catalog joins Seeker’s $400 million portfolio, which includes works by Christopher Cross, Joan Jett, Run the Jewels, and Mark Morrison.
“Nu Shooz defined an era with one of the most groundbreaking sounds of the ’80s,” said Seeker Music CEO Evan Bogart. “‘I Can’t Wait’ still feels fresh and alive today, and we are beyond excited to breathe new life into these legendary synth-pop hits.”
Seeker Music, which was recently ranked as one of the most innovative music companies of 2025 by Fast Company, plans to launch creative campaigns for the 40th anniversary of “I Can’t Wait” and release previously unreleased music from the duo.
Valerie Day expressed confidence in the new partnership, stating that the group’s legacy is in good hands. “We know the Nu Shooz legacy is in good hands, and we ‘can’t wait’ to see how they find new ways to bring our music into the future,” Day said.
The transaction involved legal and advisory representation from Deep Cuts Media and Sound Advice, LLC for Nu Shooz, and Manatt, Phelps & Phillips for Seeker Music.
