If you’ve been around in music business news, you might’ve heard that Universal Music Group went public in 2021 with their shares available to the public. You might’ve also heard that Sony Music Publishing (UMG) announced it has renewed an exclusive worldwide publishing agreement with MÃ¥neskin. Ingrooves Music Group has expanded to include the Asian market. The latest in the music business is that, as of December 2021, Warner Music Group (WMG) of what’s known as “The Big Three” has acquired the independent label 300 Entertainment. 300 Entertainment was founded by CEO Kevin Liles, Lyor Cohen, Roger Gold (who manages Camila Cabello), and Todd Moscowitz in 2012. 300’s artist roster includes that of Meg The Stallion, Gunna, Fetty Wap, Mary J. Blige Productions, and Young Thug along with his label Young Stoner Life.
Liles will be named chairman of 300 Entertainment and Elektra Music Group. Regarding the deal Liles explained, “[It] marks a “natural evolution” for all involved. It’s the perfect home for 300 artists and our team, as we invest in our independent vision and grow our global impact. At 300, we’re all about freedom – the freedom to create, the freedom to be intrapreneurs and entrepreneurs, the freedom to make music that changes the world. Independence is in our DNA and the team at Warner is like family, which makes this a natural evolution for us to do bigger family business.”
The independent label is known for being small but mighty. With a tagline like, “F*** The Cake, We Want The Bands,” it’s clear how passionate their team is behind the music. Confirmed by Music Business Worldwide, label heads forked over a total of $400 Million to acquire 300 Entertainment. That’s an amazing accomplishment for 300 and a worthy investment for WMG.
“We’ll bring their artists and team a whole universe of opportunities to ignite passionate fanbases and develop long-term careers. We’re very happy to welcome 300 fully into the Warner community of labels, and Kevin to his new role on our senior management team,” said Warner Recorded Music CEO Max Lousada.
“I’ve enjoyed working with Lyor and Kevin for over 30 years. I can’t thank Lyor enough for everything, including entrusting us with 300. I’m excited we’re moving forward with Kevin – he’s always thinking about the future, especially the future of his artists and the future of his company, and how to ensure they thrive and impact culture,” said Julie Greenwald, co-chair and COO at Atlantic Records.
Lyor Cohen, Youtube’s Global Head of Music chimed in to say, “Wonderful to see a good idea realized.300 is a way of life and is in very good hands.”