Warner Music Acquires Controlling Stake in Tempo Music Catalog, with Full Ownership Option by 2027
Warner Music Group (WMG) has acquired a controlling stake in Tempo Music Investments, their catalog-focused joint venture originally launched with Providence Equity Partners in 2019.
Wiz Khalifa on stage performing
Key Details of the Acquisition:
- Providence Equity remains as minority owner
- WMG has an option to purchase Providence's remaining stake by end of 2027
- Deal reportedly values Tempo at approximately $450 million
- Catalog composition: 80% publishing rights, 20% recorded rights
Notable Artists in Tempo's Catalog:
- Twenty One Pilots
- Adele
- Bruno Mars
- Wiz Khalifa
Strategic Significance:
- Aligns with WMG's aggressive buyout strategy under CEO Robert Kyncl
- Follows recent acquisitions of DWA and Extravaganza catalogs
- Company hired Goldman Sachs veteran Michael Ryan-Southern to strengthen acquisition strategy
Financial Impact:
- Expected to provide additional high-margin revenue
- Investment becomes more accretive as deals with other publishers expire
- Enhances WMG's direct control over the catalog
"WMG and Tempo have a long-standing history and aligned interests in uplifting great music and catalogs," stated Michael Ryan-Southern, highlighting the strategic fit of the acquisition.
Tori Amos wearing glasses and white shirt
Related Articles
Taylor Swift's Past Warning to Blake Lively Resurfaces Amid Baldoni Legal Battle
