300 Entertainment
Independent American record label and entertainment company founded in 2012, now owned by Warner Music Group.
Company Type
private
Founded
2012
Headquarters
New York City, New York, USA
Revenue
not publicly disclosed (subsidiary of Warner Music Group)
Primary Market
Global
esg compliancerenewable energy commitmentmusic industry climate collectiveeco friendly vinyl
About 300 Entertainment
What does 300 Entertainment own?
300 Entertainment owns and operates 300 Records and 300 Publishing, focusing on music recording, publishing, and artist development across hip-hop, pop, alternative, and crossover genres. The company maintains a roster of artists and manages their recording and publishing rights.
300 Entertainment owns and operates 300 Records and 300 Publishing, focusing on music recording, publishing, and artist development across hip-hop, pop, alternative, and crossover genres. The company maintains a roster of artists and manages their recording and publishing rights.
Is 300 Entertainment publicly traded?
No, 300 Entertainment is a privately held company and is not publicly traded on any stock exchange. The company is owned by Warner Music Group, which is publicly traded on NASDAQ under ticker WMG.
No, 300 Entertainment is a privately held company and is not publicly traded on any stock exchange. The company is owned by Warner Music Group, which is publicly traded on NASDAQ under ticker WMG.
Who founded 300 Entertainment?
300 Entertainment was founded in 2012 by Lyor Cohen, Kevin Liles, Todd Moscowitz, and Roger Gold. The founders brought extensive experience from major label operations, including previous roles at Warner Music Group and Def Jam Records.
300 Entertainment was founded in 2012 by Lyor Cohen, Kevin Liles, Todd Moscowitz, and Roger Gold. The founders brought extensive experience from major label operations, including previous roles at Warner Music Group and Def Jam Records.
Where is 300 Entertainment headquartered?
300 Entertainment is headquartered in New York City, New York, USA. The company maintains separate facilities from Warner Music Group's main offices, preserving its distinct identity and operational independence.
300 Entertainment is headquartered in New York City, New York, USA. The company maintains separate facilities from Warner Music Group's main offices, preserving its distinct identity and operational independence.
How many brands does 300 Entertainment own?
300 Entertainment operates two primary brands: 300 Records for music recording and artist development, and 300 Publishing for music publishing and composition rights management. The company maintains a focused brand strategy rather than a diverse portfolio.
300 Entertainment operates two primary brands: 300 Records for music recording and artist development, and 300 Publishing for music publishing and composition rights management. The company maintains a focused brand strategy rather than a diverse portfolio.
Who owns 300 Entertainment?
300 Entertainment is owned by Warner Music Group, which acquired the company in December 2021 for approximately $400 million. Despite the acquisition, 300 Entertainment maintains its independent identity and operational structure within WMG's Elektra Music Group.
300 Entertainment is owned by Warner Music Group, which acquired the company in December 2021 for approximately $400 million. Despite the acquisition, 300 Entertainment maintains its independent identity and operational structure within WMG's Elektra Music Group.
What is 300 Entertainment's relationship with Warner Music Group?
300 Entertainment operates as a subsidiary of Warner Music Group while maintaining its independent identity and entrepreneurial culture. The company is part of WMG's Elektra Music Group, with Kevin Liles serving as Chairman & CEO across both organizations.
300 Entertainment operates as a subsidiary of Warner Music Group while maintaining its independent identity and entrepreneurial culture. The company is part of WMG's Elektra Music Group, with Kevin Liles serving as Chairman & CEO across both organizations.
History of 300 Entertainment
300 Entertainment was founded in 2012 by four music industry veterans who brought decades of combined experience from major label operations. Lyor Cohen, who had previously served as Chairman and CEO of Warner Music Group's recorded music operation, resigned from WMG to start 300 alongside Todd Moscowitz (former Warner Bros president), Kevin Liles (former EVP Warner Music), and Roger Gold (former SVP of the office of the chairman and CEO at Warner Music). The founding team had previously worked together at Def Jam Records in the 1980s and 1990s, establishing a track record of success in hip-hop and urban music.
The company was established with a vision to create a new model for record labels that combined independent flexibility with major label resources. 300 Entertainment secured a distribution partnership with Atlantic Records from its launch, providing access to major label distribution infrastructure while maintaining operational independence.
In its early years, 300 Entertainment quickly established itself as a significant player in the music industry through strategic artist signings and breakthrough success stories. The company signed Eric Bellinger in 2013, followed by Atlanta rapper Young Thug and hip hop group Migos in 2014. In early 2014, Lyor Cohen signed Australian singer Conrad Sewell, who received offers from virtually every major label the day after signing with 300, with some offers exceeding $1 million.
The label achieved its first major commercial success with Fetty Wap's "Trap Queen," which became 10× platinum and established 300 Entertainment's ability to develop breakthrough artists. This was followed by Cheat Codes' "No Promises" featuring Demi Lovato, which became the label's first pop hit, and the signing of Bailey Bryan, its first country pop artist.
In September 2016, Lyor Cohen announced his exit from 300 Entertainment, with Kevin Liles assuming the role of CEO. Liles brought his extensive experience in artist development and music industry leadership to the role, making appearances in major media outlets including The Wall Street Journal and MSNBC to discuss his vision for the company.
The company's growth and success attracted the attention of Warner Music Group, which acquired 300 Entertainment in December 2021 for approximately $400 million. The acquisition was structured to allow 300 Entertainment to maintain its independent identity and separate operations while becoming part of WMG's Elektra Music Group. Under this arrangement, Kevin Liles was appointed Chairman & CEO across both 300 Entertainment and Elektra Music Group, leveraging his leadership to guide both organizations.
Under the terms of the acquisition, Kevin Liles was appointed Chairman & CEO across both 300 Entertainment and Elektra Music Group, reporting to Max Lousada, CEO of Warner Recorded Music. Elektra Music Group continues to be led by Co-Presidents Mike Easterlin and Gregg Nadel, who report to Liles. This structure allows for coordinated strategy while preserving the distinct identities of each label.
The acquisition has provided 300 Entertainment's artists with access to WMG's global infrastructure and resources while maintaining the label's entrepreneurial culture and independent spirit. The deal has also enabled 300 Entertainment to expand its global footprint and offer enhanced opportunities for artist development and long-term career building.
300 Entertainment Sustainability & Ethics
300 Entertainment has implemented sustainability and ethical practices as part of its commitment to social responsibility and environmental stewardship within the music industry. As a subsidiary of Warner Music Group, the company participates in WMG's broader sustainability initiatives while maintaining its own focus on ethical business practices and community engagement.
The company has adopted environmentally conscious practices in its operations, including efforts to reduce the environmental impact of physical music production and promotional activities. 300 Entertainment has embraced digital distribution and streaming as primary means of music delivery, which inherently reduces the environmental footprint associated with physical manufacturing and distribution.
In ethical business practices, 300 Entertainment maintains fair artist contracts and transparent royalty structures, ensuring that artists receive equitable compensation for their creative work. The company has established clear guidelines for business conduct and ethical decision-making, emphasizing integrity and respect in all business relationships.
Community engagement and social responsibility are important aspects of 300 Entertainment's corporate culture. The company supports various initiatives that promote music education, artist development, and community outreach programs. These efforts include partnerships with music education organizations and support for programs that provide opportunities for emerging artists from underrepresented communities.
300 Entertainment has not achieved independent sustainability certifications such as B Corp status, but participates in Warner Music Group's broader ESG initiatives and sustainability reporting. The company's approach to sustainability focuses on practical improvements in its operations and industry practices rather than comprehensive independent certification.
Awards & Recognition
300 Entertainment has received significant recognition within the music industry for its success in artist development, breakthrough hits, and innovative approach to label operations. The company's achievements have been acknowledged through industry awards, chart success, and professional recognition.
- **Billboard Music Awards:** Multiple awards and nominations for artists on the 300 Entertainment roster, including breakthrough artist awards and chart-topping single recognition
- **Grammy Awards:** Numerous Grammy nominations and wins for 300 Entertainment artists across hip-hop, pop, and R&B categories
- **American Music Awards:** Recognition for commercial success and fan popularity across multiple artist categories
- **BET Awards:** Multiple awards and nominations recognizing excellence in hip-hop and R&B music
- **Music Business Association Awards:** Recognition for innovative business practices and artist development strategies
- **Industry Leadership Recognition:** Acknowledgment for the company's success in developing breakthrough artists and achieving commercial success while maintaining independent identity
The company's success has been noted by industry publications and analysts for its ability to compete effectively with major labels while maintaining the flexibility and artist-focused approach of independent labels.
Controversy, Regulation & Public Scrutiny
300 Entertainment has maintained a relatively clean public record with no major regulatory actions or significant public controversies that have impacted its operations or reputation. The company operates in the highly regulated music industry but has not faced notable enforcement actions or legal disputes that would significantly affect its business.
The company has faced the same challenges affecting the broader music industry, including issues related to artist compensation, streaming royalty rates, and the transition from physical to digital music consumption. However, these industry-wide challenges have not resulted in specific regulatory scrutiny or public controversy for 300 Entertainment specifically.
300 Entertainment has maintained compliance with all applicable regulations regarding business operations, copyright law, and industry practices. The company's public disclosures and business practices have not attracted criticism from regulators or consumer advocacy groups.
The company has not been involved in significant disputes with artists over contracts or royalties, which have been sources of controversy for other record labels. 300 Entertainment's reputation for fair artist treatment and transparent business practices has contributed to its ability to attract and retain talent.
In the broader context of music industry consolidation and competition, 300 Entertainment has successfully navigated the transition from independent label to major label subsidiary while maintaining its distinct identity and artist-focused approach. This transition has not generated significant controversy or regulatory attention.
300 Entertainment has maintained a clean record with no major product recalls or significant controversies since its founding in 2012. As a music entertainment company, 300 Entertainment does not manufacture physical products that would be subject to consumer product recalls, and the company has not experienced any notable incidents that would require public notification or regulatory intervention.
The company has not faced any major controversies regarding artist contracts, royalty payments, or business practices that have affected other record labels. 300 Entertainment's focus on fair artist treatment and transparent business practices has contributed to the absence of significant disputes or public criticism.
In the area of artist relations, 300 Entertainment has maintained positive relationships with its artists and has not been involved in high-profile disputes over creative control, compensation, or career management. The company's artist-focused approach and reputation for fair dealing have contributed to stable artist relationships and reduced the likelihood of public controversies.
300 Entertainment has not faced significant criticism regarding marketing practices, content decisions, or cultural sensitivity issues that have affected other entertainment companies. The company's content and marketing strategies have been well-received and have not generated controversy regarding cultural appropriation, insensitive content, or ethical marketing practices.
The company's acquisition by Warner Music Group in 2021 was completed without significant controversy or regulatory opposition, and the integration process has proceeded smoothly with maintained artist satisfaction and operational continuity.
Brands Owned by 300 Entertainment
300 Entertainment owns 0 brands in our database.
300 Entertainment Ownership: Pros & Cons
Advantages
- +Warner Music Group ownership provides access to global distribution, financial resources, and industry expertise
- +Maintains independent identity and entrepreneurial culture within major label structure
- +Proven track record of developing breakthrough artists across multiple genres
- +Strong leadership under Kevin Liles with extensive music industry experience
- +Flexible business model combining independent agility with major label resources
- +Access to WMG's global network and infrastructure while maintaining operational independence
- +Ability to offer artists competitive deals with major label support and resources
Considerations
- -Dependence on Warner Music Group for strategic decisions and resource allocation
- -Need to balance independent identity with parent company objectives and requirements
- -Competition from other WMG imprints for resources, attention, and priority within the organization
- -Potential limitations on strategic flexibility due to integration with larger corporate structure
- -Market concentration in music industry creating competitive pressures and consolidation risks
- -Need to maintain artist trust and independence while operating within major label ecosystem
- -Vulnerability to music industry disruptions including streaming economics and changing consumer behavior
Frequently Asked Questions About 300 Entertainment
What does 300 Entertainment own?
300 Entertainment owns and operates 300 Records and 300 Publishing, focusing on music recording, publishing, and artist development across hip-hop, pop, alternative, and crossover genres. The company maintains a roster of artists and manages their recording and publishing rights.
Is 300 Entertainment publicly traded?
No, 300 Entertainment is a privately held company and is not publicly traded on any stock exchange. The company is owned by Warner Music Group, which is publicly traded on NASDAQ under ticker WMG.
Who founded 300 Entertainment?
300 Entertainment was founded in 2012 by Lyor Cohen, Kevin Liles, Todd Moscowitz, and Roger Gold. The founders brought extensive experience from major label operations, including previous roles at Warner Music Group and Def Jam Records.
Where is 300 Entertainment headquartered?
300 Entertainment is headquartered in New York City, New York, USA. The company maintains separate facilities from Warner Music Group's main offices, preserving its distinct identity and operational independence.
How many brands does 300 Entertainment own?
300 Entertainment operates two primary brands: 300 Records for music recording and artist development, and 300 Publishing for music publishing and composition rights management. The company maintains a focused brand strategy rather than a diverse portfolio.
Who owns 300 Entertainment?
300 Entertainment is owned by Warner Music Group, which acquired the company in December 2021 for approximately $400 million. Despite the acquisition, 300 Entertainment maintains its independent identity and operational structure within WMG's Elektra Music Group.
What is 300 Entertainment's relationship with Warner Music Group?
300 Entertainment operates as a subsidiary of Warner Music Group while maintaining its independent identity and entrepreneurial culture. The company is part of WMG's Elektra Music Group, with Kevin Liles serving as Chairman & CEO across both organizations.
Sources & Further Reading
- 300 Entertainment Official Website
- Warner Music Group Corporate
- Billboard: 300 Entertainment Artist Roster
- Wikipedia: 300 Entertainment
- Music Business Worldwide: Label Analysis
- SEC EDGAR: Warner Music Group Filings
- Rolling Stone: Industry Reports
- Variety: Music Industry Coverage
- Nielsen Music Reports
- IFPI Global Music Report
- Dependence on WMG's strategic direction and resource allocation
- Challenges maintaining artist-friendly practices within larger corporate structure
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