Founder of Hipgnosis Songs Fund Limited and Founder and Chairman of its Investment Adviser, Hipgnosis Song Management.

Merck has 40 years’ music industry experience and as an artist manager has helped to guide the careers of Nile Rodgers, Elton John, Guns N’ Roses, Iron Maiden, Beyoncé, Morrissey and many others.

In 2021 Merck partnered with Blackstone to establish Hipgnosis Songs Capital.

An unrivalled network and reputation within the songwriting community as a trusted custodian of songs has enabled him to complete over 150 catalogue acquisitions including those of Neil Young, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Nile Rodgers, Lindsey Buckingham/Christine McVie of Fleetwood Mac, Shakira, Leonard Cohen, The-Dream, Steve Winwood, Justin Timberlake, Journey, Justin Bieber, Timbaland, The RZA, David A. Stewart / Eurythmics, Jimmy Iovine, Chris Cornell / Soundgarden, Kenny Chesney, Mark Ronson, Richie Sambora / Bon Jovi, Journey, Carole Bayer Sager and Chrissie Hynde / The Pretenders. The acquisitions includes 25% of Spotify’s Billions Club and over 10% of Rolling Stone’s Top 500 Songs Of All Time. Highlights include Don’t Stop Believin’, Single Ladies (Put A Ring On It), Umbrella, Shape Of You, Go Your Own Way, Heart Of Gold, Higher Love, All I Want For Christmas Is You, Like A Virgin, Hips Don’t Lie, Let’s Dance, Get Lucky, Smooth, Le Freak, Livin’ On A Prayer and many more.

Merck is a vigorous advocate and campaigner for songwriters to receive a fair share of music revenues.