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Pink Floyd has been exploring a deal to sell their catalog for several months, reportedly seeking as much as $500 million.
But according to a new report in Variety, the band's valuation of its IP is being questioned following recent statements from former bassist Roger Waters about the Russia/Ukraine conflict.
In a new interview with Rolling Stone, Waters described the media as "western propaganda" and said reports of Russian war crimes in Ukraine were "lies." Additionally, he described the United States as "the most evil of all" nations on the world's stage.
At least one potential buyer considered retracting their offer altogether over Waters comments, according to a source.
But Waters expressing his political views publicly is far from novel. The mastermind of albums like Animals and The Wall has never been shy about giving his take on world affairs.
Variety sources also noted that the frequency of classic rock catalog sales in recent years was largely fueled by low interest rates. Considering rising interest rates, tax issues and the diminishing value of the British pound, it's no surprise any major IP sale would be slow going, notwithstanding some controversy.
While Waters has not been a member of Pink Floyd since the mid-'80s, he has an equal vote in any potential catalog sale by virtue of his songwriting with the band. David Gilmour, Nick Mason and the estate of late-keyboardist Richard Wright would also have to agree on the terms of a sale.
You can listen to the Waters interview in question via the player below.