In a landmark move that could reshape the landscape of the global music business, Warner Music Group (NASDAQ: WMG) and Bain Capital have announced the formation of a joint venture aimed at investing up to $1.2 billion in iconic music catalogs.

The collaboration brings together one of the world’s most influential music companies and one of the leading private investment firms to acquire high-value music assets, spanning both recorded music and publishing rights. The venture is underpinned by equal equity commitments from Warner Music Group and Bain Capital, reflecting a powerful alignment of strategic intent and financial muscle.

The primary objective of this partnership is to provide legendary artists and songwriters with new avenues to preserve, manage, and expand the reach of their creative legacies. With Warner Music Group overseeing all aspects of catalog marketing, distribution, and administration, and Bain Capital contributing its global financial expertise and investment acumen, the venture is poised to become the go-to partner for major music estates and catalogs.

Speaking about the announcement, Robert Kyncl, CEO of Warner Music Group, said: “Iconic artists and songwriters choose WMG to grow their legacies and introduce their art to new generations through impactful and innovative campaigns. Augmenting our deep expertise and global infrastructure with Bain Capital’s financial prowess and belief in music will make us the destination of choice for preeminent catalogs.” “Timeless music content continues to sit at the center of consumer entertainment. Stewardship of catalogs has never been more important, as artists and songwriters deserve support to enhance the value of their work while delivering fans new and exciting collaborations. Warner Music Group, with its deep creative resources and partnership culture, is the ideal partner for Bain Capital to work alongside as we grow and safeguard the world’s iconic music.”

The partnership comes at a pivotal time, as music consumption undergoes rapid transformation. The rise of streaming platforms, social media trends, and emerging technologies such as AI are breathing new life into classic tracks, exposing younger audiences to timeless hits and deep cuts from past decades.

Angelo Rufino, a Partner at Bain Capital, emphasized the growing importance of responsible catalog stewardship: The joint venture will be supported by Goldman Sachs and Fifth Third Bank, who will act as joint lead arrangers, further highlighting the financial sector’s confidence in music as a long-term asset class.

This move signals a new era of cross-industry collaboration where music, finance, and technology intersect to redefine how iconic music is owned, managed, and monetized for generations to come.