As filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on February 9, 2005
Registration No. 333-121322
UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
AMENDMENT NO. 3
TO
FORM S-4
REGISTRATION STATEMENT
UNDER
THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933
WMG ACQUISITION CORP.
(Exact Name of Registrant as Specified in Its Charter)
(SEE TABLE OF ADDITIONAL REGISTRANTS)
Delaware (State or other jurisdiction of incorporation or organization) |
7929 (Primary Standard Industrial Classification Code Number) |
13-35665869 (I.R.S. Employer Identification Number) |
||
75 Rockefeller Plaza New York, NY 10019 (212) 275-2000 |
(Address, Including Zip Code, and Telephone Number, Including Area Code, of Registrant's Principal Executive Offices)
David H. Johnson, Esq.
Executive Vice President and
General Counsel
Warner Music Group
75 Rockefeller Plaza
New York, NY 10019
(212) 275-2030
(Name, Address, Including Zip Code, and Telephone Number, Including Area Code, of Agent For Service)
Copies to:
Edward P. Tolley III, Esq.
Simpson Thacher & Bartlett LLP
425 Lexington Avenue
New York, New York 10017-3954
(212) 455-2000
Approximate date of commencement of proposed sale to the public: As soon as practicable after the effective date of this Registration Statement.
If the securities being registered on this form are being offered in connection with the formation of a holding company and there is compliance with General Instruction G, check the following box. / /
If this Form is filed to register additional securities for an offering pursuant to Rule 462(b) under the Securities Act, check the following box and list the Securities Act registration statement number of the earlier effective registration statement for the same offering. / /
If this Form is a post-effective amendment filed pursuant to Rule 462(d) under the Securities Act, check the following box and list the Securities Act registration statement number of the earlier effective registration statement for the same offering. / /
The Registrants hereby amend this Registration Statement on such date or dates as may be necessary to delay its effective date until the Registrants shall file a further amendment which specifically states that this Registration Statement shall thereafter become effective in accordance with Section 8(a) of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, or until the Registration Statement shall become effective on such date as the Securities and Exchange Commission, acting pursuant to said Section 8(a), may determine.
TABLE OF ADDITIONAL REGISTRANT GUARANTORS
Exact Name of Registrant As Specified In Its Charter |
State or other Jurisdiction of Incorporation or Organization |
IRS Employer Identification Number |
Address, Including ZIP Code, And Telephone Number, Including Area Code, Of Registrant's Principal Executive Offices |
Phone Number |
||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
A.P. Schmidt Company | Delaware | 36-2669470 | 10585 Santa Monica Blvd., Los Angeles CA 90025 |
(310) 441-8600 | ||||
Atlantic Recording Corporation |
Delaware |
13-2597725 |
1290 Avenue of the Americas, New York NY 10104 |
(212) 707-2000 |
||||
Atlantic/143 L.L.C. |
Delaware |
13-3975703 |
1290 Avenue of the Americas, New York NY 10104 |
(212) 707-2000 |
||||
Atlantic/MR II INC. |
Delaware |
13-3845524 |
1290 Avenue of the Americas, New York NY 10104 |
(212) 707-2000 |
||||
Atlantic/MR Ventures Inc. |
Delaware |
13-3684268 |
1290 Avenue of the Americas, New York NY 10104 |
(212) 707-2000 |
||||
Berna Music, Inc. |
California |
95-2565721 |
10585 Santa Monica Blvd., Los Angeles CA 90025 |
(310) 441-8600 |
||||
Big Beat Records Inc. |
Delaware |
13-3626173 |
1290 Avenue of the Americas, New York NY 10104 |
(212) 707-2000 |
||||
Big Tree Recording Corporation |
Delaware |
13-2945275 |
1290 Avenue of the Americas, New York NY 10104 |
(212) 707-2000 |
||||
Bute Sound LLC |
Delaware |
13-4032642 |
10585 Santa Monica Blvd., Los Angeles CA 90025 |
(310) 441-8600 |
||||
Cafe Americana Inc. |
Delaware |
13-3246931 |
10585 Santa Monica Blvd., Los Angeles CA 90025 |
(310) 441-8600 |
||||
Chappell & Intersong Music Group (Australia) Limited |
Delaware |
13-3395886 |
1 Cassins Avenue, North Sydney, Australia |
(61) 2 9779 4099 |
||||
Chappell And Intersong Music Group (Germany) Inc. |
Delaware |
13-3246911 |
Alter Wandrahm 14, D-20457 Hamburg, Germany |
(49) 40-30339-101 |
||||
Chappell Music Company, Inc. |
Delaware |
13-3325475 |
10585 Santa Monica Blvd., Los Angeles CA 90025 |
(310) 441-8600 |
||||
Cota Music, Inc. |
New York |
13-3523591 |
10585 Santa Monica Blvd., Los Angeles CA 90025 |
(310) 441-8600 |
||||
Cotillion Music, Inc. |
Delaware |
13-2597937 |
10585 Santa Monica Blvd., Los Angeles CA 90025 |
(310) 441-8600 |
||||
CPP/Belwin, Inc. |
Delaware |
65-0051018 |
15800 N.W. 48th Avenue, P.O. Box 4340, Miami FL 33014 |
(305) 620-1500 |
||||
CRK Music Inc. |
Delaware |
13-3663052 |
10585 Santa Monica Blvd., Los Angeles CA 90025 |
(310) 441-8600 |
||||
E/A Music, Inc. |
Delaware |
13-3203221 |
10585 Santa Monica Blvd., Los Angeles CA 90025 |
(310) 441-8600 |
||||
Eleksylum Music, Inc. |
Delaware |
13-3174021 |
10585 Santa Monica Blvd., Los Angeles CA 90025 |
(310) 441-8600 |
||||
Elektra Entertainment Group Inc. |
Delaware |
13-4033729 |
75 Rockefeller Plaza, New York NY 10019 |
(212) 275-2000 |
||||
Elektra Group Ventures Inc. |
Delaware |
13-3808252 |
75 Rockefeller Plaza, New York NY 10019 |
(212) 275-2000 |
||||
Elektra/Chameleon Ventures Inc. |
Delaware |
13-3626113 |
75 Rockefeller Plaza, New York NY 10019 |
(212) 275-2000 |
||||
FHK, INC. |
Tennessee |
62-1548343 |
10585 Santa Monica Blvd., Los Angeles CA 90025 |
(310) 441-8600 |
||||
Fiddleback Music Publishing Company, Inc |
Delaware |
13-2705484 |
10585 Santa Monica Blvd., Los Angeles CA 90025 |
(310) 441-8600 |
||||
Foster Frees Music, Inc. |
California |
95-3297348 |
10585 Santa Monica Blvd., Los Angeles CA 90025 |
(310) 441-8600 |
||||
Foz Man Music LLC |
Delaware |
13-4028790 |
10585 Santa Monica Blvd., Los Angeles CA 90025 |
(310) 441-8600 |
||||
Inside Job, Inc. |
New York |
13-2699020 |
1290 Avenue of the Americas, New York NY 10104 |
(212) 707-2000 |
||||
Intersong U.S.A., INC. |
Delaware |
13-3246932 |
10585 Santa Monica Blvd., Los Angeles CA 90025 |
(310) 441-8600 |
||||
Jadar Music Corp. |
Delaware |
13-3246915 |
10585 Santa Monica Blvd., Los Angeles CA 90025 |
(310) 441-8600 |
||||
Lava Trademark Holding Company LLC |
Delaware |
13-4139472 |
1290 Avenue of the Americas, New York NY 10104 |
(212) 707-2000 |
||||
LEM America, INC. |
Delaware |
94-2741964 |
10585 Santa Monica Blvd., Los Angeles CA 90025 |
(310) 441-8600 |
||||
London-Sire Records Inc. |
Delaware |
13-3954692 |
75 Rockefeller Plaza, New York, NY 10019 |
(212) 275-2000 |
||||
McGuffin Music Inc. |
Delaware |
13-3663051 |
10585 Santa Monica Blvd., Los Angeles CA 90025 |
(310) 441-8600 |
||||
Mixed Bag Music, Inc. |
New York |
13-3111989 |
10585 Santa Monica Blvd., Los Angeles CA 90025 |
(310) 441-8600 |
||||
MM Investment Inc. (fka Warner Music Bluesky Holding Inc.) |
Delaware |
13-3829389 |
75 Rockefeller Plaza, New York NY 10019 |
(212) 275-2000 |
||||
NC Hungary Holdings Inc. |
Delaware |
05-0536079 |
10585 Santa Monica Blvd., Los Angeles CA 90025 |
(310) 441-8600 |
||||
New Chappell Inc. |
Delaware |
13-3246920 |
10585 Santa Monica Blvd., Los Angeles CA 90025 |
(310) 441-8600 |
||||
Nonesuch Records Inc. |
Delaware |
20-1926784 |
3300 Warner Boulevard, Burbank CA 91505, United States |
(818) 846-9090 |
||||
NVC International Inc. |
Delaware |
51-0267089 |
75 Rockefeller Plaza, New York NY 10019 |
(212) 275-2000 |
||||
Octa Music, Inc. |
New York |
13-3523592 |
10585 Santa Monica Blvd., Los Angeles CA 90025 |
(310) 441-8600 |
||||
Penalty Records L.L.C. |
New York |
13-3889367 |
75 Rockefeller Plaza, New York NY 10019 |
(212) 275-2000 |
||||
Pepamar Music Corp. |
New York |
13-2512410 |
10585 Santa Monica Blvd., Los Angeles CA 90025 |
(310) 441-8600 |
||||
Revelation Music Publishing Corporation |
New York |
13-2705483 |
10585 Santa Monica Blvd., Los Angeles CA 90025 |
(310) 441-8600 |
||||
Rhino Entertainment Company |
Delaware |
13-3647166 |
3400 West Olive Avenue, Burbank CA 91505 |
(818) 238-6100 |
||||
Rick's Music Inc. |
Delaware |
13-3246929 |
10585 Santa Monica Blvd., Los Angeles CA 90025 |
(310) 441-8600 |
||||
Rightsong Music Inc. |
Delaware |
13-3246926 |
10585 Santa Monica Blvd., Los Angeles CA 90025 |
(310) 441-8600 |
||||
Rodra Music, Inc. |
California |
95-2561531 |
10585 Santa Monica Blvd., Los Angeles CA 90025 |
(310) 441-8600 |
||||
Sea Chime Music, Inc. |
California |
95-3335535 |
10585 Santa Monica Blvd., Los Angeles CA 90025 |
(310) 441-8600 |
||||
SR/MDM Venture Inc. |
Delaware |
13-3647169 |
3300 Warner Boulevard, Burbank CA 91505 |
(818) 846-9090 |
||||
Summy-Birchard, Inc. |
Wyoming |
36-1026750 |
10585 Santa Monica Blvd., Los Angeles CA 90025 |
(310) 441-8600 |
||||
Super Hype Publishing, Inc. |
New York |
13-2664278 |
10585 Santa Monica Blvd., Los Angeles CA 90025 |
(310) 441-8600 |
||||
T-Boy Music L.L.C. |
New York |
13-3669372 |
10585 Santa Monica Blvd., Los Angeles CA 90025 |
(310) 441-8600 |
||||
T-Girl Music L.L.C. |
New York |
13-3669731 |
10585 Santa Monica Blvd., Los Angeles CA 90025 |
(310) 441-8600 |
||||
The Rhythm Method Inc. |
Delaware |
13-4141258 |
75 Rockefeller Plaza, New York NY 10019 |
(212) 275-2000 |
||||
Tommy Boy Music, Inc. |
New York |
13-3070723 |
75 Rockefeller Plaza, New York NY 10019 |
(212) 275-2000 |
||||
Tommy Valando Publishing Group, Inc. |
Delaware |
13-2705485 |
10585 Santa Monica Blvd., Los Angeles CA 90025 |
(310) 441-8600 |
||||
Tri-Chappell Music Inc. |
Delaware |
13-3246916 |
10585 Santa Monica Blvd., Los Angeles CA 90025 |
(310) 441-8600 |
||||
TW Music Holdings Inc. |
Delaware |
20-0769163 |
75 Rockefeller Plaza, New York NY 10019 |
(212) 275-2000 |
||||
Unichappell Music Inc. |
Delaware |
13-3246914 |
10585 Santa Monica Blvd., Los Angeles CA 90025 |
(310) 441-8600 |
||||
W.B.M. Music Corp. |
Delaware |
13-3166007 |
10585 Santa Monica Blvd., Los Angeles CA 90025 |
(310) 441-8600 |
||||
Walden Music, Inc. |
New York |
13-6125056 |
10585 Santa Monica Blvd., Los Angeles CA 90025 |
(310) 441-8600 |
||||
Warner Alliance Music Inc. |
Delaware |
95-4391760 |
10585 Santa Monica Blvd., Los Angeles CA 90025 |
(310) 441-8600 |
||||
Warner Brethren Inc. |
Delaware |
95-4391762 |
10585 Santa Monica Blvd., Los Angeles CA 90025 |
(310) 441-8600 |
||||
Warner Bros. Music International Inc. |
Delaware |
13-2839469 |
10585 Santa Monica Blvd., Los Angeles CA 90025 |
(310) 441-8600 |
||||
Warner Bros. Publications U.S. Inc. |
New York |
13-2670425 |
15800 N.W. 48th Avenue, P.O. Box 4340, Miami FL 33014 |
(305) 620-1500 |
||||
Warner Bros. Records Inc. |
Delaware |
95-1976532 |
3300 Warner Boulevard, Burbank CA 91505 |
(818) 846-9090 |
||||
Warner Custom Music Corp. |
California |
94-2990925 |
75 Rockefeller Plaza, New York, NY 10019 |
(212) 275-2000 |
||||
Warner Domain Music Inc. |
Delaware |
13-3845523 |
10585 Santa Monica Blvd., Los Angeles CA 90025 |
(310) 441-8600 |
||||
Warner Music Discovery Inc. |
Delaware |
13-3695120 |
3400 West Olive Ave., Burbank CA 91505 |
(818) 238-6200 |
||||
Warner Music Distribution Inc. |
Delaware |
13-3713729 |
75 Rockefeller Plaza, New York NY 10019 |
(212) 275-2000 |
||||
Warner Music Group Inc. |
Delaware |
13-3565869 |
75 Rockefeller Plaza, New York NY 10019 |
(212) 275-2000 |
||||
Warner Music Latina Inc. |
Delaware |
13-3586626 |
555 Washington Avenue, Fourth Floor, Miami Beach FL 33139 |
(305) 702-2200 |
||||
Warner Music SP Inc. |
Delaware |
13-3802269 |
75 Rockefeller Plaza, New York NY 10019 |
(212) 275-2000 |
||||
Warner Sojourner Music Inc. |
Delaware |
62-1530861 |
10585 Santa Monica Blvd., Los Angeles CA 90025 |
(310) 441-8600 |
||||
Warner Special Products Inc. |
Delaware |
13-2788802 |
3400 West Olive Ave., Burbank CA 91505 |
(818) 238-6200 |
||||
WarnerSongs Inc. |
Delaware |
13-2793164 |
10585 Santa Monica Blvd., Los Angeles CA 90025 |
(310) 441-8600 |
||||
Warner Strategic Marketing Inc. |
Delaware |
01-0569802 |
3400 West Olive Ave., Burbank CA 91505 |
(818) 238-6200 |
||||
Warner-Elektra-Atlantic Corporation |
New York |
13-6170726 |
75 Rockefeller Plaza, New York, NY 10019 |
(212) 275-2000 |
||||
Warner-Tamerlane Publishing Corp. |
California |
13-6132127 |
10585 Santa Monica Blvd., Los Angeles CA 90025 |
(310) 441-8600 |
||||
Warner/Chappell Music (Services), Inc. |
New Jersey |
95-2685983 |
10585 Santa Monica Blvd., Los Angeles CA 90025 |
(310) 441-8600 |
||||
Warner/Chappell Music, Inc. |
Delaware |
13-3246913 |
10585 Santa Monica Blvd., Los Angeles CA 90025 |
(310) 441-8600 |
||||
Warprise Music Inc. |
Delaware |
13-3845521 |
10585 Santa Monica Blvd., Los Angeles CA 90025 |
(310) 441-8600 |
||||
WB Gold Music Corp. |
Delaware |
13-3155100 |
10585 Santa Monica Blvd., Los Angeles CA 90025 |
(310) 441-8600 |
||||
WB Music Corp. |
California |
13-6132128 |
10585 Santa Monica Blvd., Los Angeles CA 90025 |
(310) 441-8600 |
||||
WBM/House of Gold Music, Inc. |
Delaware |
13-3146335 |
10585 Santa Monica Blvd., Los Angeles CA 90025 |
(310) 441-8600 |
||||
WBPI Holdings LLC |
Delaware |
34-2024699 |
15800 N.W. 48th Avenue, P.O. Box 4340, Miami FL 33014 |
(305) 620-1500 |
||||
WBR Management Services Inc. |
Delaware |
13-3032834 |
3300 Warner Boulevard, Burbank CA 91505 |
(818) 846-9090 |
||||
WBR/QRI Venture, Inc. |
Delaware |
13-3647168 |
3300 Warner Boulevard, Burbank CA 91505 |
(818) 846-9090 |
||||
WBR/Ruffnation Ventures, Inc. |
Delaware |
13-4079805 |
3300 Warner Boulevard, Burbank CA 91505 |
(818) 846-9090 |
||||
WBR/Sire Ventures Inc. |
Delaware |
13-2953720 |
3300 Warner Boulevard, Burbank CA 91505 |
(818) 846-9090 |
||||
We Are Musica Inc. |
Delaware |
13-3713725 |
10585 Santa Monica Blvd., Los Angeles CA 90025 |
(310) 441-8600 |
||||
WEA Europe Inc. |
Delaware |
13-2805638 |
75 Rockefeller Plaza, New York NY 10019 |
(212) 275-2000 |
||||
WEA Inc. |
Delaware |
13-3862485 |
75 Rockefeller Plaza, New York, NY 10019 |
(212) 275-2000 |
||||
WEA International Inc. |
Delaware |
13-2805420 |
75 Rockefeller Plaza, New York NY 10019 |
(212) 275-2000 |
||||
WEA Latina Musica Inc. |
Delaware |
13-3713731 |
10585 Santa Monica Blvd., Los Angeles CA 90025 |
(310) 441-8600 |
||||
WEA Management Services Inc. |
Delaware |
52-2280908 |
75 Rockefeller Plaza, New York NY 10019 |
(212) 275-2000 |
||||
Wide Music, Inc. |
California |
95-3500269 |
10585 Santa Monica Blvd., Los Angeles CA 90025 |
(310) 441-8600 |
||||
WEA Rock LLC |
Delaware |
86-1120258 |
75 Rockefeller Plaza, New York NY 10019 |
(212) 275-2000 |
||||
WEA Urban LLC |
Delaware |
86-1120251 |
75 Rockefeller Plaza, New York NY 10019 |
(212) 275-2000 |
||||
WMG Management Services Inc. |
Delaware |
52-2314190 |
75 Rockefeller Plaza, New York NY 10019 |
(212) 275-2000 |
||||
WMG Trademark Holding Company LLC |
Delaware |
20-0233769 |
75 Rockefeller Plaza, New York NY 10019 |
(212) 275-2000 |
PROSPECTUS
$465,000,000 aggregate principal amount of 73/8% Senior Subordinated Notes due 2014, which have been registered under the Securities Act of 1933 for any and all outstanding 73/8% Senior Subordinated Notes due 2014
£100,000,000 aggregate principal amount of 81/8% Senior Subordinated Notes due 2014, which have been registered under the Securities Act of 1933 for any and all outstanding 81/8% Senior Subordinated Notes due 2014
The exchange notes will be fully and unconditionally guaranteed on an unsecured basis by each of our domestic subsidiaries that guarantees the obligations under our senior secured credit facility.
We are conducting the exchange offers in order to provide you with an opportunity to exchange your unregistered outstanding notes for freely tradeable exchange notes that have been registered under the Securities Act.
The Exchange Offers
All untendered outstanding notes will continue to be subject to the restrictions on transfer set forth in the outstanding notes and in the indenture. In general, the outstanding notes may not be offered or sold, unless registered under the Securities Act, except pursuant to an exemption from, or in a transaction not subject to, the Securities Act and applicable state securities laws. Other than in connection with the exchange offers, we do not currently anticipate that we will register the outstanding notes under the Securities Act.
You should carefully consider the "Risk Factors" beginning on page 18 of this prospectus before participating in the exchange offers.
Neither the Securities and Exchange Commission nor any state securities commission has approved or disapproved of the exchange notes to be distributed in the exchange offers or passed upon the accuracy or adequacy of this prospectus. Any representation to the contrary is a criminal offense.
The date of this prospectus is February 10, 2005
|
Page |
|
---|---|---|
Prospectus Summary | 1 | |
Risk Factors | 18 | |
Special Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements | 34 | |
Use of Proceeds | 36 | |
Capitalization | 37 | |
The Transactions | 38 | |
Pro Forma Consolidated Condensed Financial Statements | 43 | |
Selected Historical Consolidated Financial and Other Data | 51 | |
Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations | 54 | |
Industry Overview | 88 | |
Business | 93 | |
Management | 108 | |
Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management | 118 | |
Certain Relationships and Related Party Transactions | 121 | |
Description of Other Indebtedness | 125 | |
The Exchange Offers | 128 | |
Description of Notes | 142 | |
Exchange Offers; Registration Rights | 198 | |
Book-Entry; Delivery and Form | 200 | |
Material U.S. Federal Income Tax Consequences | 205 | |
Certain ERISA Considerations | 206 | |
Plan of Distribution | 208 | |
Legal Matters | 209 | |
Experts | 209 | |
Available Information | 209 | |
Index to Combined Financial Statements | F-1 |
We have not authorized any dealer, salesperson or other person to give any information or represent anything to you other than the information contained in this prospectus. You must not rely on unauthorized information or representations.
This prospectus does not offer to sell or ask for offers to buy any of the securities in any jurisdiction where it is unlawful, where the person making the offer is not qualified to do so, or to any person who can not legally be offered the securities. The information in this prospectus is current only as of the date on its cover, and may change after that date.
MARKET AND INDUSTRY DATA AND FORECASTS
This prospectus includes industry data and forecasts that we have prepared based, in part, upon industry data and forecasts obtained from industry publications and surveys and internal company surveys. As noted in this prospectus, International Federation of the Phonographic Industry ("IFPI"), Recording Industry Association of America ("RIAA"), Nielsen SoundScan ("SoundScan"), Informa
i
Media Research, Music & Copyright Report ("Music & Copyright"), National Music Publishers' Association ("NMPA"), The NPD Group, Enders Analysis and the U.S. Department of Commerce, U.S. Census Bureau, Bureau of Labor Statistics were the primary sources for third-party industry data and forecasts. These third-party industry publications and surveys and forecasts generally state that the information contained therein has been obtained from sources believed to be reliable, but there can be no assurance as to the accuracy or completeness of included information. We have not independently verified any of the data from third-party sources nor have we ascertained the underlying economic assumptions relied upon therein. Similarly, industry forecasts and market research, while believed to be reliable, have not been independently verified.
ii
This summary highlights information contained elsewhere in this prospectus. This summary may not contain all of the information that is important to you. We urge you to read this entire prospectus, including the "Risk Factors" section and the combined financial statements and related notes, before participating in the exchange offers.
We acquired the business of WMG from Time Warner effective March 1, 2004. In this prospectus, the term "Warner Music Group" refers to WMG Acquisition Corp., which does business under that name, and not its subsidiaries. In this prospectus, the terms "we," "our," "ours," "us," "the Company" and "WMG" refer collectively to Warner Music Group and its consolidated or combined subsidiaries, except where otherwise indicated. For periods prior to March 1, 2004, those terms refer to Warner Music Group's consolidated or combined subsidiaries while they were owned and operated by Time Warner Inc., except where otherwise indicated. In 2004, we changed our fiscal year end from November 30 to September 30. Accordingly, the fiscal year ended September 30, 2004 is a ten-month period. In addition, as a result of our acquisition of Warner Music Group from Time Warner, and as described further in our financial statements and the notes thereto included elsewhere in this prospectus, results discussed for the ten months ended September 30, 2004 represent the mathematical addition of our pre-acquisition three-month period ended February 29, 2004 and our post-acquisition seven-month period ended September 30, 2004. Calculations of market share are based on revenues, except as otherwise noted.
Our Company
We are one of the world's major music companies. Our company is composed of two businesses: Recorded Music and Music Publishing. We are a global company, generating over half of our revenues in more than 50 countries outside of the U.S. Warner Music Group was Time Warner Inc.'s music division until substantially all of it was acquired by the issuer, WMG Acquisition Corp. (which was formed on November 20, 2003 and now does business under the name Warner Music Group), from Time Warner on March 1, 2004 for $2.595 billion in cash and non-cash consideration. See "The Transactions."
Our Recorded Music business produces revenue through the marketing, sale and licensing of recorded music in physical and digital formats. We believe we have one of the world's largest and most varied recorded music catalogs, including 27 of the top 100 U.S. best-selling albums of all timemore than any other recorded music company. Our roster of over 38,000 artists spans all musical genres and includes Led Zeppelin, The Eagles, Madonna, Metallica and Fleetwood Mac. Our more recent successes include Linkin Park, Simple Plan, Jet, Michelle Branch, Sean Paul and Josh Groban. Our Recorded Music business generated 83% of our consolidated revenues during the twelve months ended September 30, 2004.
Our Music Publishing business owns and acquires rights to musical compositions, exploits and markets these compositions and receives royalties or fees for their use. We hold rights in over one million copyrights across a broad range of musical styles from over 65,000 songwriters and composers. Our library includes titles such as "Happy Birthday to You" by Mildred and Patty Hill, "Night and Day" by Cole Porter, "When a Man Loves a Woman" by Calvin Lewis and Andrew Wright, and "Star Wars Theme" by John Williams, as well as more recent popular titles such as "Smooth" by Itaal Shur and Rob Thomas and "Thank You" by Dido Armstrong and Paul Herman. Our Music Publishing business generated 17% of our consolidated revenues during the twelve months ended September 30, 2004.
1
Industry Overview
Recorded music and music publishing focus on different products and benefit from different sources of revenues. The following table summarizes the product, the "artist" that is responsible for creating the product and the means by which the product generates revenue:
|
Recorded Music |
Music Publishing |
||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
The Product |
|
The recording |
|
The song |
||||
The "Artist" | | Recording artist | | Songwriter or composer | ||||
How revenues are generated | | When a recording (in physical or digital format) is sold or licensed | | When a recording (in physical or digital format) of the song is sold or licensed | ||||
| When a song is performed publicly (e.g., radio, television, concert or nightclub) | |||||||
| When a song is synchronized with visual images (e.g., movies and advertisements) | |||||||
| When a song's printed sheet music is sold |
The recorded music business is the business of discovering and developing recording artists and promoting, selling and licensing their works. In 2003, the recorded music industry generated $32.0 billion in retail sales worldwide. The industry experienced robust growth in the 1990s but in recent years has seen a decline due primarily to the increase in digital piracy. In an effort to curb this decline, the industry launched an intensive campaign in 2003 to limit digital piracy. We believe these anti-piracy efforts are beginning to produce results as evidenced by increased consumer awareness, reduced illegal downloading activity and growth for the one-year ended January 2, 2005 in U.S. music physical unit sales of approximately 1% relative to the comparable one-year ended December 28, 2003, as reported by SoundScan. Moreover, the industry has been encouraged by the recent proliferation and early success of legitimate digital music distribution channels, as evidenced by the 141 million digital tracks sold in the U.S. through the one-year ended January 2, 2005. See "Industry OverviewRecorded Music."
According to the most recent published estimates by Enders Analysis, the worldwide music publishing industry accounted for $3.7 billion in revenues in 2003. See "Industry OverviewMusic Publishing."
Competitive Strengths
We believe we benefit from the following competitive strengths:
Industry Leading Recording Artists and Songwriters. We have been able to consistently attract, develop and retain successful recording artists and songwriters. This has enabled us to accumulate over decades a large and varied portfolio of recorded music and music publishing assets that generate stable and recurring cash flows.
Stable, Highly Diversified Revenue Base. Our revenue base is derived primarily from relatively stable and recurring sources such as our music publishing library, our catalog of recorded music and new releases from our existing base of established artists. In any given year, we believe that less than 10% of our total revenues depend on artists without established track records, with each of these artists typically representing less than 1% of our revenues. We have built a large and diverse catalog of
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recordings and compositions that covers a wide breadth of musical styles and are a significant player in each of our major geographic regions.
High Cash Flow Business Model. We generate relatively high levels of cash flow from operations as a result of our highly variable cost structure, our minimal capital requirements and our ability to adjust the timing and amount of much of our spending. Through our recent restructuring effort, we have substantially streamlined our cost structure. In addition, outsourcing arrangements entered into in October 2003 with Cinram International Inc. ("Cinram") have significantly reduced our exposure to fixed costs and are expected to continue to reduce our future capital expenditure requirements.
Well Positioned For Growth in Digital Distribution and Emerging Technologies. For the one-year ended January 2, 2005, our market share of digital recorded music track sales in the U.S. as measured by SoundScan was higher than our overall recorded music album market share in the U.S., which we believe reflects the relative strength of our content and in particular our catalog content. In addition, we are highly focused on several new media initiatives: supporting existing and new online services in the U.S. and abroad, working with legitimate P2P providers, influencing the evolution of new mobile phone services and formats and simplifying the clearance of all of our content for digital distribution.
Proven and Committed Management Team. We are led by an experienced senior management team with an average of approximately 20 years of entertainment industry expertise. Edgar Bronfman, Jr. is our Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer. Mr. Bronfman, while President and CEO of The Seagram Company Ltd. ("Seagram"), oversaw the merger of Universal Music Group ("Universal") and PolyGram N.V. ("PolyGram"), and successfully managed the combined business, the world's then largest recorded music company.
Strong Equity Sponsorship. Thomas H. Lee Partners, L.P. and its affiliates ("THL"), Bain Capital and its affiliates ("Bain Capital"), Music Capital and Providence Equity Partners Inc. and its affiliates ("Providence Equity") (collectively, the "Investors") are each leading private equity firms with established track records of successful investments and extensive experience in managing investments in entertainment and media assets.
Business Strategy
We intend to increase revenues, operating income and cash flow through the following business strategies:
Attract, Develop and Retain Established and Emerging Recording Artists and Songwriters. A critical element of our strategy is to continue to find, develop and retain recording artists and songwriters who achieve long-term profitable success. We believe our relative size, the strength of our management team, our ability to respond to industry and consumer trends and challenges, our diverse array of genres, our large catalog of hit releases and our valuable music publishing library will help us continue to successfully build our roster of artists and songwriters.
Maximize the Value of Our Music Assets. Our Recorded Music business focuses on marketing our artists and catalog in new ways to retain existing fans of established artists and to generate new demand for our proven hits. Our Music Publishing business seeks to capitalize on the growing demand for the use of musical compositions in media products such as videogames, commercials, other musical works (such as authorized sampling), films, DVDs, mobile phone ring tones and Internet and wireless streaming and downloads by marketing and promoting our libraries to producers of these media in new and innovative ways.
Focus on Continued Management of Our Cost Structure. Immediately following our sale on March 1, 2004, we commenced a broad-based restructuring plan (the "Restructuring Plan.") We intend to continue to maintain a disciplined approach to cost management in our business, and to pursue
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additional cost savings. We expect to complete substantially all of the Restructuring Plan by May 2005 with annualized cost savings of more than $250 million. We project the one-time costs associated with the Restructuring Plan to be between $225 million to $250 million, of which approximately $105 million has been paid through September 30, 2004. This projection is substantially less than the $310 million original estimate. There are still significant risks associated with the Restructuring Plan. See "Risk Factors" and "Business."
Invest in Accordance with an Improved Asset Allocation Strategy. Our new management has undertaken a rigorous company-wide initiative in conjunction with outside consultants in order to enhance our financial performance through developing a more targeted approach to investments. Implementing the results of this study, we will primarily seek to invest in lines of business, geographic locations and individual projects where we believe we can optimize our return on capital.
Develop and Optimize Our Physical Distribution Channel Strategies. We will continue to develop innovative programs with our physical distribution channel partners in order to implement forward-looking strategies for our mutual benefit. We will invest to meet the needs of our partners to create more efficient collaboration, such as direct-to-retail distribution strategies and vendor managed inventory.
Capitalize on Digital Distribution and Emerging Technologies. We believe new technology formats should represent a fast-growing and high-margin channel for the distribution and exploitation of our music. In particular, new and emerging third-party digital distribution outlets are not only reasonably priced, but also offer a superior customer experience to illegal alternatives, as they are easy to use, offer uncorrupted song files and integrate seamlessly with increasingly popular portable music players such as the Apple iPod, the Dell Digital Jukebox and the iRiver iHP. In addition, as networks and phone handsets become more sophisticated, our music is increasingly becoming available through mobile and other wireless service providers as ring tones, ringback tones and audio and music video downloads.
Contain Digital Piracy. We, along with the rest of the music industry, are actively combating piracy through technological innovation, litigation, education and the promotion of legislation both in the U.S. and internationally.
Recent Developments
Return of Capital. We recently returned an additional $350 million of capital (the "Return of Capital") to the Investors. The Return of Capital was funded out of our cash balance and not from the incurrence of additional debt. We obtained an amendment to our credit agreement to provide for the Return of Capital.
Payment to Investors. On December 23, 2004, our parent company, WMG Holdings Corp. ("Holdings"), incurred approximately $700 million of new debt, consisting of $250 million of Floating Rate Senior Notes due 2011, $250 million in gross proceeds of 9.5% Senior Discount Notes due 2014 (with aggregate principal amount at maturity of $396.8 million) and $200 million of Floating Rate Senior PIK Notes due 2014 (collectively, the "Holdings Notes"). The proceeds from the issuance of the Holdings Notes were used to fund a return of approximately $680 million from Holdings to its shareholders and the shareholders of our ultimate parent company, WMG Parent Corp. ("Parent") (the "Holdings' Payment to Investors") through a combination of dividends on Holdings' common and preferred stock and repurchases of its common and preferred stock. Of the total of $680 million, approximately $631 million was distributed to the Investors with the remainder being held by Parent.
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New Chief Financial Officer. We recently announced that Michael D. Fleisher has been named as our permanent Chief Financial Officer. He replaces Michael Ward who was our acting Chief Financial Officer while we conducted a search to fill the position on a permanent basis. See "Management."
Warner Music Group was incorporated under Delaware law on November 20, 2003. Our principal executive offices are located at 75 Rockefeller Plaza, New York, NY 10019. Our telephone number is (212) 275-2000.
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Summary of the Terms of Exchange Offers
On April 8, 2004, Warner Music Group completed a private offering of the outstanding notes. References to the "notes" in this prospectus are references to both the outstanding notes and the exchange notes offered hereby. In addition, we sometimes refer in this prospectus to the notes denominated in U.S. dollars as the "dollar notes" and the notes denominated in pounds sterling as the "sterling notes."
General | In connection with the private offering, we entered into a registration rights agreement with Deutsche Bank Securities Inc., Bank of America Securities LLC, Lehman Brothers Inc. and Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith Incorporated (collectively, the "initial purchasers") the initial purchasers of the outstanding notes in which we and the guarantors agreed, among other things, to deliver this prospectus to you and to use our reasonable best efforts complete the exchange offers for the outstanding notes within 360 days after the date of issuance of the outstanding notes. | |||
You are entitled to exchange in the exchange offers your outstanding notes for exchange notes, which are identical in all material respects to the outstanding notes except: | ||||
| the exchange notes have been registered under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, which we refer to as the "Securities Act"; | |||
| the exchange notes are not entitled to certain registration rights which are applicable to the outstanding notes under the registration rights agreement; and | |||
| certain additional interest rate provisions are no longer applicable. | |||
The Exchange Offers | We are offering to exchange up to: | |||
| $465,000,000 aggregate principal amount of our 73/8% Senior Subordinated Notes due 2014, which have been registered under the Securities Act, for a like aggregate principal amount of the outstanding 73/8% Senior Subordinated Notes due 2014; and | |||
| £100,000,000 aggregate principal amount of 81/8% Senior Subordinated Notes due 2014, which have been registered under the Securities Act, for a like aggregate principal amount of the outstanding 81/8% Senior Subordinated Notes due 2014. | |||
You may only exchange outstanding notes in denominations of $5,000 and integral multiples of $1,000 in the case of the outstanding dollar notes and denominations of £5,000 and integral multiples of £1,000 in the case of the outstanding sterling notes. | ||||
Subject to the satisfaction or waiver of specified conditions, we will exchange the exchange notes for all outstanding notes that are validly tendered and not validly withdrawn prior to the expiration of the applicable exchange offer. We will cause the applicable exchange to be effected promptly after the expiration of the applicable exchange offer. | ||||
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Upon completion of the applicable exchange offer, there may be no market for the applicable outstanding notes and you may have difficulty selling them. | ||||
Resales | Based on interpretations by the staff of the Securities and Exchange Commission, or the "SEC", set forth in no-action letters issued to third parties referred to below, we believe that you may resell or otherwise transfer exchange notes issued in the exchange offers without complying with the registration and prospectus delivery requirements of the Securities Act, if: | |||
(1) | you are acquiring the exchange notes in the ordinary course of your business. | |||
(2) | you do not have an arrangement or understanding with any person to participate in a distribution of the exchange notes; | |||
(3) | you are not an "affiliate" of Warner Music Group within the meaning of Rule 405 under the Securities Act; and | |||
(4) | you are not engaged in, and do not intend to engage in, a distribution of the exchange notes. | |||
If you are not acquiring the exchange notes in the ordinary course of your business, or if you are engaging in, intend to engage in, or have any arrangement or understanding with any person to participate in, a distribution of the exchange notes, or if you are an affiliate of Warner Music Group, then: | ||||
(1) | you cannot rely on the position of the staff of the SEC enunciated in Morgan Stanley & Co., Inc. (available June 5, 1991), Exxon Capital Holdings Corporation (available May 13, 1988), as interpreted in the SEC's letter to Shearman & Sterling dated July 2, 1993, or similar no-action letters; and | |||
(2) | in the absence of an exception from the position of the SEC stated in (1) above, you must comply with the registration and prospectus delivery requirements of the Securities Act in connection with any resale or other transfer of the exchange notes. | |||
If you are a broker-dealer and receive exchange notes for your own account in exchange for outstanding notes that you acquired as a result of market-making or other trading activities, you must acknowledge that you will deliver a prospectus, as required by law, in connection with any resale or other transfer of the exchange notes that you receive in either exchange offer. See "Plan of Distribution." | ||||
Expiration Dates | Each exchange offer will expire at 12:00 a.m. midnight, New York City time, on March 15, 2005, unless extended by us. We do not currently intend to extend the expiration date of either exchange offer. | |||
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Withdrawal | You may withdraw the tender of your outstanding notes at any time prior to the expiration date of the applicable exchange offer. We will return to you any of your outstanding notes that are not accepted for any reason for exchange, without expense to you, promptly after the expiration or termination of the applicable exchange offer. | |||
Interest on the Exchange Notes and the Outstanding Notes | Each exchange dollar note and each exchange sterling note will bear interest at the applicable rate per annum set forth on the cover page of this prospectus from the most recent date to which interest has been paid on the outstanding dollar notes or outstanding dollar or outstanding sterling notes, as the case may be or, if no interest has been paid on the outstanding dollar notes or outstanding sterling notes, as the case may be, from April 8, 2004. The interest will be payable semi-annually on each April 15 and October 15, beginning October 15, 2004. No interest will be paid on outstanding notes following their acceptance for exchange. | |||
Conditions to the Exchange Offers | Each exchange offer is subject to customary conditions, which we may assert or waive. See "The Exchange OffersConditions to the Exchange Offers." | |||
Procedures for Tendering Outstanding Notes | If you wish to participate in any of the exchange offers, you must complete, sign and date the applicable accompanying letter of transmittal, or a facsimile of the letter of transmittal, according to the instructions contained in this prospectus and the letter of transmittal. You must then mail or otherwise deliver the letter of transmittal, or a facsimile of the letter of transmittal, together with the outstanding notes and any other required documents, to the exchange agent at the address set forth on the cover page of the letter of transmittal. If you hold outstanding dollar notes through The Depository Trust Company, or "DTC", and wish to participate in the exchange offer for the outstanding dollar notes, you must comply with the Automated Tender Offer Program procedures of DTC, and, if you hold outstanding sterling notes through Euroclear Bank S.A./N.V. ("Euroclear") or Clearstream Banking, société anonyme ("Clearstream, Luxembourg") and wish to participate in the exchange offer for the outstanding sterling notes, you must comply with the procedures of Euroclear or Clearstream, Luxembourg, as applicable, in each case, by which you will agree to be bound by the letter of transmittal. By signing, or agreeing to be bound by, the letter of transmittal, you will represent to us that, among other things: | |||
(1) | you are acquiring the exchange notes in the ordinary course of your business; | |||
(2) | you do not have an arrangement or understanding with any person to participate in a distribution of the exchange notes; | |||
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(3) | you are not an "affiliate" of Warner Music Group within the meaning of Rule 405 under the Securities Act; and | |||
(4) | you are not engaged in, and do not intend to engage in, a distribution of the exchange notes. | |||
If you are a broker-dealer and receive exchange notes for your own account in exchange for outstanding notes that you acquired as a result of market-making or other trading activities, you must represent to us that you will deliver a prospectus, as required by law, in connection with any resale or other transfer of such exchange notes. | ||||
If you are not acquiring the exchange notes in the ordinary course of your business, or if you are engaged in, or intend to engage in, or have an arrangement or understanding with any person to participate in, a distribution of the exchange notes, or if you are an affiliate of Warner Music Group, then you cannot rely on the applicable positions and interpretations of the staff of the SEC and you must comply with the registration and prospectus delivery requirements of the Securities Act in connection with any resale or other transfer of the exchange notes. | ||||
Special Procedures for Beneficial Owners | If you are a beneficial owner of outstanding notes that are held in the name of a broker, dealer, commercial bank, trust company or other nominee, and you wish to tender those outstanding notes in the exchange offers, you should contact such person promptly and instruct such person to tender those outstanding notes on your behalf. | |||
Guaranteed Delivery Procedures | If you wish to tender your outstanding notes and your outstanding notes are not immediately available or you cannot deliver your outstanding notes, the letter of transmittal and any other documents required by the letter of transmittal or you cannot comply with the DTC procedures for book-entry transfer or the procedures of Euroclear or Clearstream, Luxembourg, as applicable, prior to the expiration date, then you must tender your outstanding notes according to the guaranteed delivery procedures set forth in this prospectus under "The Exchange OffersGuaranteed Delivery Procedures." | |||
Effect on Holders of Outstanding Notes | In connection with the sale of the outstanding notes, we entered into a registration rights agreement with the initial purchasers of the outstanding notes that grants the holders of outstanding notes registration rights. By making the exchange offers, we will have fulfilled most of our obligations under the registration rights agreement. Accordingly, we will not be obligated to pay additional interest as described in the registration rights agreement. If you do not tender your outstanding notes in the exchange offers, you will continue to be entitled to all the rights and limitations applicable to the outstanding notes as set forth in the indenture, except we will not have any further obligation to you to provide for the registration of the outstanding notes under the registration rights agreement and we will not be obligated to pay additional interest as described in the registration rights agreement, except in certain limited circumstances. See "Exchange Offers; Registration Rights." | |||
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To the extent that outstanding dollar notes or outstanding sterling notes are tendered and accepted in the exchange offers, the trading market for outstanding dollar notes or outstanding sterling notes, as the case may be, could be adversely affected. | ||||
Consequences of Failure to Exchange | All untendered outstanding notes will continue to be subject to the restrictions on transfer set forth in the applicable outstanding notes and in the indenture. In general, the outstanding notes may not be offered or sold, unless registered under the Securities Act, except pursuant to an exemption from, or in a transaction not subject to, the Securities Act and applicable state securities laws. We do not currently anticipate that we will register the outstanding notes under the Securities Act. | |||
Material Income Tax Considerations | The exchange of outstanding notes for exchange notes in the exchange offers will not be a taxable event for United Stated federal income tax purposes. See "Material U.S. Federal Income Tax Consequences." | |||
Use of Proceeds | We will not receive any cash proceeds from the issuance of exchange notes in either exchange offer. | |||
Exchange Agents | Wells Fargo Bank, National Association and HSBC Bank plc, each of whose addresses and telephone numbers are set forth in the section captioned "The Exchange OffersExchange Agent" of this prospectus, are the exchange agents for the exchange offers for the dollar notes and sterling notes, respectively. |
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Summary of the Terms of the Exchange Notes
In this prospectus, the terms "outstanding dollar notes" and "outstanding sterling notes" refer to the 73/8% senior subordinated notes due 2014 denominated in U.S. dollars and the 81/8% senior subordinated notes due 2014 denominated in pounds sterling, respectively, each issued in the private offering; the terms "exchange dollar notes" and "exchange sterling notes" refer to the 73/8% senior subordinated notes due 2014 denominated in U.S. dollars and the 81/8% senior subordinated notes due 2014 denominated in pounds sterling, each as registered under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "Securities Act"), respectively; the term "outstanding notes" refers to the outstanding dollar notes and outstanding sterling notes, and the term "exchange notes" refers to the exchange dollar notes and exchange sterling notes; and the term "notes" refers to both the outstanding notes and the exchange notes. The terms of the exchange notes are identical in all material respects to the terms of the outstanding notes, except that the exchange notes will not contain terms with respect to transfer restrictions or additional interest upon a failure to fulfill certain of our obligations under the registration rights agreement. The exchange notes will evidence the same debt as the outstanding notes. The exchange notes will be governed by the same indenture under which the outstanding notes were issued, and the exchange notes and the outstanding notes will constitute a single class and series of notes for all purposes under the indenture. The following summary is not intended to be a complete description of the terms of the notes. For a more detailed description of the notes, see "Description of Notes."
Issuer | Warner Music Group | |||
Notes Offered | $465,000,000 aggregate principal amount of 73/8% Senior Subordinated Notes due 2014; and £100,000,000 aggregate principal amount of 81/8% Senior Subordinated Notes due 2014. | |||
Maturity | April 15, 2014. | |||
Interest Rate | Dollar notes: 73/8% per annum (calculated using a 360-day year). Sterling notes: 81/8% per annum (calculated using a 360-day year). | |||
Interest Payment Dates | April 15 and October 15, beginning on October 15, 2004. | |||
Ranking | The outstanding notes are, and the exchange notes will be, our unsecured senior subordinated obligations and: | |||
| rank junior to our existing and future senior debt, including obligations under our senior secured credit facility; | |||
| rank equally in right of payment with all of our future senior subordinated debt; | |||
| be effectively subordinated in right of payment to all of our existing and future secured debt (including obligations under our senior secured credit facility), to the extent of the value of the assets securing such debt, and be structurally subordinated to all obligations of each of our subsidiaries that are not guarantors; and | |||
| rank senior in right of payment to all of our future subordinated debt. | |||
Similarly, the subsidiary guarantees with respect to the outstanding notes are, and the subsidiary guarantees with respect to the exchange notes will be, senior subordinated unsecured obligations of the guarantors and: | ||||
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| rank junior in right of payment to all of the applicable guarantors' existing and future senior debt, including the applicable guarantor's guarantee under our senior secured credit facility; | |||
| rank equally in right of payment with all of the applicable guarantors' future senior subordinated debt; | |||
| be effectively subordinated in right of payment to all of the applicable guarantors' existing and future secured debt (including the applicable guarantor's guarantee under our senior secured credit facility), to the extent of the value of the assets securing such debt, and be structurally subordinated to all obligations of any subsidiary of a guarantor if that subsidiary is not a guarantor; and | |||
| rank senior in right of payment to all of the applicable guarantors' future subordinated debt. | |||
As of September 30, 2004, we had $1.194 billion of senior debt outstanding and an additional $250 million available under our revolving credit facility. | ||||
Guarantees | Each of our domestic, wholly owned subsidiaries that guarantees the obligations under our senior secured credit facility jointly and severally and unconditionally guarantees the outstanding notes, and will jointly and severally and unconditionally guarantee the exchange notes, on an unsecured, senior subordinated basis. | |||
Optional Redemption | Prior to April 15, 2009, Warner Music Group may redeem some or all of the notes at a price equal to 100% of the principal amount of the notes plus a "make-whole" premium as set forth under "Description of NotesOptional Redemption." Additionally, Warner Music Group may redeem the notes, in whole or in part, at any time on or after April 15, 2009 at the redemption prices set forth under "Description of NotesOptional Redemption." | |||
Optional Redemption After Certain Equity Offerings | At any time (which may be more than once) before April 15, 2007, we may choose to redeem up to 35% of each of the dollar notes and the sterling notes with proceeds that we or one of our parent companies raises in one or more equity offerings, so long as: | |||
| Warner Music Group pays 107.375% of the face amount of the dollar notes and 108.125% of the face amount of the sterling notes, in each case, plus accrued and unpaid interest; | |||
| Warner Music Group redeems the notes within 90 days of completing the equity offering; and | |||
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| at least 65% of the aggregate principal amount of the applicable series of notes issued remains outstanding afterwards. | |||
See "Description of NotesOptional Redemption." | ||||
Change of Control Offer | Upon the occurrence of a change in control, you will have the right, as holders of the notes, to require Warner Music Group to repurchase some or all of your notes at 101% of their face amount, plus accrued interest. See "Description of NotesChange of Control." | |||
Warner Music Group may not be able to pay you the required price for notes you present to it at the time of a change of control, because: | ||||
| Warner Music Group may not have enough funds at that time; or | |||
| terms of our senior debt may prevent us from paying. | |||
Asset Sale Proceeds | If we or our restricted subsidiaries engage in asset sales, we generally must either invest the net cash proceeds from such sales in our business within a period of time, prepay senior debt or make an offer to purchase a principal amount of the notes equal to the excess net cash proceeds. The purchase price of the notes will be 100% of their principal amount, plus accrued and unpaid interest. | |||
Certain Indenture Provisions | The indenture governing the notes contains covenants limiting our ability and the ability of most or all of our subsidiaries to: | |||
| incur additional debt or issue certain preferred shares; | |||
| pay dividends on or make distributions in respect of our capital stock or make other restricted payments; | |||
| make certain investments; | |||
| sell certain assets; | |||
| create liens on certain debt without securing the notes; | |||
| consolidate, merge, sell or otherwise dispose of all or substantially all of our assets; | |||
| enter into certain transactions with our affiliates; and | |||
| designate our subsidiaries as unrestricted subsidiaries. | |||
These covenants are subject to a number of important limitations and exceptions. See "Description of Notes." | ||||
Absence of Public Market | The exchange notes will generally be freely transferable (subject to certain restrictions discussed in "Exchange Offers; Registration Rights") but will be a new issue of securities for which there will not initially be a market. Accordingly, there can be no assurance as to the development or liquidity of any market for the exchange notes. The initial purchasers in the private offering of the outstanding notes have advised us that they currently intend to make a market for the exchange notes, as permitted by applicable laws and regulations. However, they are not obligated to do so and may discontinue any such market making activities at any time without notice. We do not intend to apply for a listing of the exchange dollar notes on any securities exchange or automated dealer quotation system. Application has been made to list the sterling notes on the Luxembourg Stock Exchange, as noted below. | |||
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Listing | Application has been made to list the sterling exchange notes on the Luxembourg Stock Exchange. As noted above, we do not intend to apply for a listing of the exchange dollar notes on any securities exchange or automated dealer quotation system. The exchange dollar notes are expected to trade in the over-the-counter market. | |||
Use of Proceeds | We will not receive any cash proceeds from the exchange offers. For a description of the use of proceeds from the private offering of the outstanding notes, see "Use of Proceeds". | |||
Risk Factors | See "Risk Factors" for a description of some of the risks you should consider before deciding to participate in either exchange offer. |
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SUMMARY HISTORICAL AND PRO FORMA FINANCIAL AND OTHER DATA
The following table sets forth our summary historical and pro forma financial and other data as of the dates and for the periods indicated. Our summary balance sheet data as of September 30, 2004 and November 30, 2003 and the statement of operations and other data for each of (i) the seven months ended September 30, 2004, (ii) the three months ended February 29, 2004, (iii) the ten months ended September 30, 2003 and (iv) the years ended November 30, 2003 and 2002 have been derived from our audited financial statements included elsewhere in this prospectus. The balance sheet data as of November 30, 2002 are derived from our audited financial statements that are not included in this prospectus. Our summary historical balance sheet data as of the ten months ended September 30, 2003 and our summary historical financial data as of and for each of the two years ended November 30, 2001 and 2000 have been derived from our unaudited financial statements that are not included in this prospectus.
The comparability of our summary historical financial data has been affected by a number of significant events and transactions. These include the Acquisition (as defined below) in 2004, a related change in our fiscal year to September 30 from November 30, which was enacted in 2004, and the acquisition of Time Warner by AOL in 2001 (the "AOL Time Warner Merger"). Due to the change in our year end, financial information for 2004 is a transition period and reflects a shortened ten-month period ended September 30, 2004. This period is also separated into two pre-acquisition and post-acquisition periods as a result of the change in accounting basis that occurred relating to the Acquisition. For all periods prior to the Acquisition, the music and publishing businesses formerly owned by Time Warner are referred to as "Old WMG" or the "Predecessor." For all periods subsequent to the Acquisition, the business is referred to as the "Company" or the "Successor." In addition, summary historical financial data for 2000 does not reflect the pushdown of a portion of the purchase price relating to the AOL Time Warner Merger that occurred in 2001 to our financial statements.
Our summary unaudited pro forma financial data for the twelve months ended September 30, 2004 give effect, in the manner described under "Pro Forma Consolidated Condensed Financial Statements" and the notes thereto, to (i) the acquisition of the business by Warner Music Group effective as of March 1, 2004 (the "Acquisition") and the borrowings under our senior secured credit facility and bridge loan and an initial capital investment by the Investors (the "Original Financing"), (ii) the use of the proceeds from the issuance of the notes, additional borrowings under the senior secured credit facility and cash on hand to repay or return certain amounts incurred in connection with the Original Financing (the "Refinancing"), and (iii) our CD and DVD manufacturing, packaging and physical distribution agreements (the "Cinram Agreements") with Cinram, as if they all occurred as of October 1, 2003 and (iv) the Return of Capital as if it occurred as of September 30, 2004. The summary pro forma financial data are presented for informational purposes only and are not necessarily indicative of our financial position or results of operations that would have occurred had the transactions been consummated as of the dates indicated. In addition, the summary pro forma combined financial data are not necessarily indicative of our future financial condition or operating results.
You should read the information contained in this table in conjunction with "Pro Forma Consolidated Condensed Financial Statements," "Selected Historical Consolidated Financial and Other Data," "Capitalization," "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations," "The Transactions" and our historical financial statements and the accompanying notes thereto included elsewhere in this prospectus.
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Historical |
Pro Forma |
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Predecessor |
Successor |
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Three Months Ended February 29, 2004 |
Seven Months Ended September 30, 2004 |
Twelve Months Ended September 30, 2004(2) |
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Fiscal Years Ended November 30, |
Ten Months Ended September 30, 2003 |
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2000 |
2001 |
2002 |
2003 |
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(unaudited) |
(unaudited) |
(audited)(1) |
(audited)(1) |
(unaudited) |
(audited)(1) |
(audited)(1) |
(unaudited) |
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(in millions) |
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Statement of Operations Data: | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Revenues | $ | 3,461 | $ | 3,226 | $ | 3,290 | $ | 3,376 | $ | 2,487 | $ | 779 | $ | 1,769 | $ | 3,436 | |||||||||||
Cost of revenues | (1,960 | ) | (1,731 | ) | (1,873 | ) | (1,940 | ) | (1,449 | ) | (415 | ) | (944 | ) | (1,843 | ) | |||||||||||
Selling, general and administrative expenses | (1,297 | ) | (1,402 | ) | (1,282 | ) | (1,286 | ) | (995 | ) | (319 | ) | (677 | ) | (1,291 | ) | |||||||||||
Impairment of goodwill and other intangible assets | | | (1,500 | ) | (1,019 | ) | | | | (1,019 | ) | ||||||||||||||||
Depreciation and amortization | (282 | ) | (868 | ) | (249 | ) | (328 | ) | (272 | ) | (72 | ) | (140 | ) | (245 | ) | |||||||||||
Operating income (loss) | (36 | ) | (766 | ) | (1,542 | ) | (1,158 | ) | (197 | ) | (11 | ) | 18 | (929 | ) | ||||||||||||
Interest expense, net | (13 | ) | (34 | ) | (23 | ) | (5 | ) | (5 | ) | (2 | ) | (80 | ) | (135 | ) | |||||||||||
Income (loss) before cumulative effect of accounting change | (408 | ) | (910 | ) | (1,230 | ) | (1,353 | ) | (239 | ) | (32 | ) | (104 | ) | (848 | ) | |||||||||||
Net income (loss) | $ | (408 | ) | $ | (910 | ) | $ | (6,026 | ) | $ | (1,353 | ) | $ | (239 | ) | $ | (32 | ) | $ | (104 | ) | $ | (848 | ) | |||
Segment Data: |
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Revenues: | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Recorded Music | $ | 2,929 | $ | 2,701 | $ | 2,752 | $ | 2,839 | $ | 2,039 | $ | 630 | $ | 1,429 | N/A | ||||||||||||
Music Publishing | 554 | 547 | 563 | 563 | 467 | 157 | 348 | N/A | |||||||||||||||||||
Intersegment eliminations | (22 | ) | (22 | ) | (25 | ) | (26 | ) | (19 | ) | (8 | ) | (8 | ) | N/A | ||||||||||||
Total revenues | $ | 3,461 | $ | 3,226 | $ | 3,290 | $ | 3,376 | $ | 2,487 | $ | 779 | $ | 1,769 | $ | 3,436 | |||||||||||
Operating income (loss): | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Recorded Music | $ | (22 | ) | $ | (733 | ) | $ | (1,206 | ) | $ | (1,130 | ) | $ | (181 | ) | $ | (9 | ) | $ | 24 | N/A | ||||||
Music Publishing | 47 | 23 | (273 | ) | 23 | 19 | 17 | 53 | N/A | ||||||||||||||||||
Corporate expenses | (61 | ) | (56 | ) | (63 | ) | (51 | ) | (35 | ) | (19 | ) | (59 | ) | N/A | ||||||||||||
Total operating income (loss) | $ | (36 | ) | $ | (766 | ) | $ | (1,542 | ) | $ | (1,158 | ) | $ | (197 | ) | $ | (11 | ) | $ | 18 | $ | (929 | ) | ||||
OIBDA(3): |
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Recorded Music | $ | 214 | $ | 73 | $ | 173 | $ | 116 | $ | 8 | $ | 38 | $ | 120 | N/A | ||||||||||||
Music Publishing | 91 | 81 | 88 | 107 | 88 | 38 | 87 | N/A | |||||||||||||||||||
Corporate expenses | (59 | ) | (52 | ) | (54 | ) | (34 | ) | (21 | ) | (15 | ) | (49 | ) | N/A | ||||||||||||
Total OIBDA(3) | $ | 246 | $ | 102 | $ | 207 | $ | 189 | $ | 75 | $ | 61 | $ | 158 | $ | 335 | |||||||||||
Cash Flow Data: |
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Cash flows provided by (used in): |
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Operating activities | $ | 75 | $ | (122 | ) | $ | (13 | ) | $ | 278 | $ | 257 | $ | 321 | $ | 86 | N/A | ||||||||||
Investing activities | (153 | ) | (175 | ) | (365 | ) | (65 | ) | (73 | ) | 14 | (2,663 | ) | N/A | |||||||||||||
Financing activities | 61 | 227 | 385 | (121 | ) | (151 | ) | (10 | ) | 2,661 | N/A | ||||||||||||||||
Capital expenditures | (64 | ) | (91 | ) | (88 | ) | (51 | ) | (30 | ) | (3 | ) | (15 | ) | N/A | ||||||||||||
Other Financial Data: |
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Deficiency in earnings over fixed charges(4) | $ | (365 | ) | $ | (1,066 | ) | $ | (1,570 | ) | $ | (1,317 | ) | $ | (268 | ) | $ | (15 | ) | $ | (74 | ) | (1,161 | ) | ||||
Balance Sheet Data (at period end): |
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Cash and equivalents | $ | 106 | $ | 34 | $ | 41 | $ | 144 | $ | 80 | $ | 471 | $ | 555 | $ | 213 | |||||||||||
Total assets | 6,791 | 17,642 | 5,679 | 4,484 | 5,255 | 4,560 | 5,090 | 4,748 | |||||||||||||||||||
Total debt (including current portion of long-term debt) | 102 | 115 | 101 | 120 | 115 | 132 | 1,840 | 1,840 | |||||||||||||||||||
Shareholder's equity | 5,228 | 14,588 | 3,001 | 1,587 | 2,635 | 1,691 | 978 | 636 |
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reduce the carrying value of goodwill and intangible assets (which we refer to as "OIBDA"). See "Use of OIBDA" under "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations" elsewhere herein. Note that OIBDA is different from Adjusted EBITDA as defined in "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of OperationsFinancial Condition and LiquidityCovenant Compliance", which is presented on a consolidated and combined basis therein as a covenant compliance measure. The following is a reconciliation of operating income, which is a GAAP measure of our operating results, to OIBDA.
|
Historical |
Pro Forma |
|||||||||||||||||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Predecessor |
Successor |
|
||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
Three Months Ended February 29, 2004 |
Seven Months Ended September 30, 2004 |
Twelve Months Ended September 30, 2004(2) |
|||||||||||||||||
|
Fiscal Years Ended November 30, |
Ten Months Ended September 30, 2003 |
|||||||||||||||||||||||
|
2000 |
2001 |
2002 |
2003 |
|||||||||||||||||||||
|
(unaudited) |
(unaudited) |
(audited)(1) |
(audited)(1) |
(unaudited) |
(audited)(1) |
(audited)(1) |
(unaudited) |
|||||||||||||||||
|
(in millions) |
||||||||||||||||||||||||
Operating income (loss) | $ | (36 | ) | $ | (766 | ) | $ | (1,542 | ) | $ | (1,158 | ) | $ | (197 | ) | $ | (11 | ) | $ | 18 | $ | (929 | ) | ||
Depreciation and amortization expense | 282 | 868 | 249 | 328 | 272 | 72 | 140 | 245 | |||||||||||||||||
Impairment of goodwill and other intangible assets | | | 1,500 | 1,019 | | | | 1,019 | |||||||||||||||||
OIBDA |
$ |
246 |
$ |
102 |
$ |
207 |
$ |
189 |
$ |
75 |
$ |
61 |
$ |
158 |
$ |
335 |
|||||||||
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You should carefully consider the risk factors set forth below as well as the other information contained in this prospectus before participating in the exchange offers. Any of the following risks could materially and adversely affect our business, financial condition or results of operations. In such a case, you may lose all or part of your original investment.
Risks Related to the Exchange Offers
If you choose not to exchange your outstanding notes in the exchange offers, the transfer restrictions currently applicable to your outstanding notes will remain in force and the market price of your outstanding notes could decline.
If you do not exchange your outstanding notes for exchange notes in the applicable exchange offer, then you will continue to be subject to the transfer restrictions on the applicable outstanding notes as set forth in the offering memorandum distributed in connection with the private offering of the outstanding notes. In general, the outstanding notes may not be offered or sold unless they are registered or exempt from registration under the Securities Act and applicable state securities laws. Except as required by the registration rights agreement, we do not intend to register resales of the outstanding notes under the Securities Act. You should refer to "Prospectus SummarySummary of the Terms of the Exchange Offers" and "The Exchange Offers" for information about how to tender your outstanding notes.
The tender of outstanding notes under the exchange offers will reduce the principal amount of the outstanding notes outstanding, which may have an adverse effect upon and increase the volatility of, the market price of the outstanding notes due to reduction in liquidity.
As a result of the exchange offers, increased costs associated with corporate governance compliance may significantly affect our results of operations.
The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 will require changes in some of our corporate governance and securities disclosure and compliance practices, and will require a review of our internal control procedures. We expect these developments to increase our legal compliance and financial reporting costs. These developments could also make it more difficult and more expensive for us to obtain director and officer liability insurance, and we may be required to accept reduced coverage or incur higher costs to obtain coverage. In addition, they could make it more difficult for us to attract and retain qualified members of our board of directors, or qualified executive officers. We are presently evaluating and monitoring regulatory developments and cannot estimate the timing or magnitude or additional costs we may incur as a result.
Our internal controls over financial reporting may not be adequate and our independent auditors may not be able to certify as to their adequacy, which could have a significant and adverse effect on our business and reputation.
We are evaluating our internal controls over financial reporting in order to allow management to report on, and our independent auditors to attest to, our internal controls over financial reporting, as required by Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 and rules and regulations of the SEC thereunder, which we refer to as Section 404. Section 404 requires a reporting company such as ours to, among other things, annually review and disclose its internal controls over financial reporting, and evaluate and disclose changes in its internal controls over financial reporting quarterly. We will be required to comply with Section 404 as of September 30, 2005. We are currently performing the system and process evaluation and testing required (and any necessary remediation) in an effort to comply with management certification and auditor attestation requirements of Section 404. In the course of our ongoing evaluation, we have identified areas of our internal controls requiring improvement, and plan
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to design enhanced processes and controls to address these and any other issues that might be identified through this review. As a result, we expect to incur additional expenses and diversion of management's time. We cannot be certain as to the timing of completion of our evaluation, testing and remediation actions or the impact of the same on our operations and may not be able to ensure that the process is effective or that the internal controls are or will be effective in a timely manner. If we are not able to implement the requirements of Section 404 in a timely manner or with adequate compliance, our independent auditors may not be able to certify as to the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting and we may be subject to sanctions or investigation by regulatory authorities, such as the Securities and Exchange Commission. As a result, there could be an adverse reaction in the financial markets due to a loss of confidence in the reliability of our financial statements. In addition, we may be required to incur costs in improving our internal control system and the hiring of additional personnel. Any such action could adversely affect our results.
Our outside auditors have identified weaknesses in our internal controls that could affect our ability to ensure timely and reliable financial reports.
In addition to our evaluation of internal controls under Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act and any areas requiring improvement that we identify as part of that process, in connection with our most recent audit, our outside auditors identified a number of significant deficiencies that together constitute material weaknesses in our internal controls. A material weakness, as defined by the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board ("PCAOB"), is a significant deficiency that by itself, or in combination with other significant deficiencies, results in more than a remote likelihood that a material misstatement of the annual or interim financial statements will not be prevented or detected.
During the transition from a subsidiary of a multinational company to a stand alone entity, our outside auditors advised the audit committee of our board of directors and our management that numerous entity level controls were limited or not in place, including the need for a permanent chief financial officer (who we have since hired) and additional skilled accounting and SEC experienced personnel to enhance the accounting department both domestically and internationally, the need to develop a tax group, the need to establish our own internal audit department, the need to considerably enhance our documentation of our systems and controls, and the need to develop and implement a formal code of conduct. In addition, our outside auditors noted that our domestic operations currently use different royalty systems, which has created certain complexities in reconciling royalty expense and payables. While we recognize that additional staff is needed to cope with current requirements in royalty processing until a new system can be developed, we may not be able to hire and train additional staff. Finally, our auditors noted that our overall controls at our print business are significantly deficient.
We have already taken a number of actions to begin to address the items identified including:
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While we have begun to take actions to address the items identified, additional measures will be necessary and these measures along with other measures we expect to take to improve our internal controls may not be sufficient to address the issues identified by our outside auditors or ensure that our internal controls are effective. As a result of the presence of these material weaknesses, we believe there is risk that we may not be in compliance with Section 404 in a timely manner and that we might be unable to provide reliable and timely financial reports. An inability to provide reliable and timely financial reports could have a material adverse effect on our business and prospects.
The recorded music industry has been declining and may continue to decline, which may adversely affect our prospects and our results of operations.
Illegal downloading of music from the Internet, CD-R piracy, industrial piracy, economic recession, bankruptcies of record wholesalers and retailers and growing competition for consumer discretionary spending and retail shelf space may all be contributing to a declining recorded music industry. Additionally, the period of growth in recorded music sales driven by the introduction and penetration of the CD format has ended. While DVD-Audio, DualDisc and downloadable digital files are thought to represent potential new avenues for growth, no significant new legitimate audio format has yet emerged to take the place of the CD. The value of worldwide sales fell as the music industry witnessed a decline of 4.9% from 1999 to 2000, 5.7% from 2000 to 2001, 6.7% from 2001 to 2002 and 7.6% from 2002 to 2003. Although we believe that the recorded music industry should continue to improve as evidenced by the year-over-year growth in U.S. music physical unit sales year-to-date through year-end 2004 and the improved first-half performance in physical music unit sales globally in 2004, the industry may relapse into a period of decline as witnessed from 1999 to 2003 and we cannot assure you as to the timing or the extent of any improvement in the industry or that the evidence of improvement in 2004 based upon U.S. sales through the one-year period ending January 2, 2005 and global sales in the first half of 2004 will continue. A declining recorded music industry is likely to lead to reduced levels of revenue and operating income generated by our Recorded Music business. Additionally, a declining recorded music industry is also likely to have a negative impact on our Music Publishing business, which generates a significant portion of its revenues from mechanical royalties, primarily from the sale of music in CD and other recorded music formats.
There may be downward pressure on our pricing and our profit margins.
There are a variety of factors which could cause us to reduce our prices and erode our profit margins. They are, among others, increased price competition among record companies resulting from the Universal and Sony BMG recorded music duopoly, price competition from the sale of motion pictures in DVD-Video format and videogames, the ever greater price negotiating leverage of mass merchandisers and big box retailers, the increased costs of doing business with mass merchandisers and big box retailers as a result of complying with operating procedures that are unique to their needs and the adoption by record companies of initially lower-margin formats such as DualDisc and DVD-Audio. See "Risk FactorsWe may be materially and adversely affected by the formation of Sony BMG Music Entertainment."
Our prospects and financial results may be adversely affected if we fail to identify, sign and retain artists and songwriters and by the existence or absence of superstar releases and by local economic conditions in the countries in which we operate.
We are dependent on identifying, signing and retaining artists with long-term potential, whose debut albums are well received on release, whose subsequent albums are anticipated by consumers and whose music will continue to generate sales as part of our catalog for years to come. The competition among record companies for such talent is intense. Competition among record companies to sell records is also intense and the marketing expenditures necessary to compete have increased as well. We are also dependent on signing and retaining songwriters who will write the hit songs of today and the
20
classics of tomorrow under terms that are economically attractive to us. Our competitive position is dependent on our continuing ability to attract and develop talent whose work can achieve a high degree of public acceptance. Our financial results may be adversely affected if we are unable to identify, sign and retain such artists and songwriters under terms that are economically attractive to us. Our financial results may also be affected by the existence or absence of superstar artist releases during a particular period. Some music industry observers believe that the number of superstar acts with long-term appeal, both in terms of catalog sales and future releases, has declined in recent years. Additionally, our financial results are generally affected by the general economic and retail environment of the countries in which we operate, as well as the appeal of our recorded music catalog and our music publishing library.
We may have difficulty addressing the threats to our business associated with home copying and Internet downloading.
The combined effect of the decreasing cost of electronic and computer equipment and related technology such as CD burners and the conversion of music into digital formats have made it easier for consumers to create unauthorized copies of our recordings in the form of, for example, CDs and MP3 files. A substantial portion of our revenue comes from the sale of audio products that are potentially subject to unauthorized consumer copying and widespread dissemination on the Internet without an economic return to us. We are working to control this problem through litigation, by lobbying governments for new, stronger copyright protection laws and more stringent enforcement of current laws and by establishing legitimate new media business models. We cannot give any assurances that such measures will be effective. For instance, the Inducing Infringement of Copyrights Act of 2004 introduced in the Senate on June 22, 2004 was not enacted in 2004. If we fail to obtain appropriate relief through the judicial process or the complete enforcement of judicial decisions issued in our favor (or if judicial decisions are not in our favor, such as in the recent file-sharing cases in the U.S. and Canada, Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Studios, Inc. et al vs. Grokster Ltd. et al, and BMG Canada Inc. et al vs. John Doe et al, respectively), if we are unsuccessful in our efforts to lobby governments to enact and enforce stronger legal penalties for copyright infringement or if we fail to develop effective means of protecting our intellectual property (whether copyrights or other rights such as patents, trademarks and trade secrets) or entertainment-related products or services, our results of operations, financial position and prospects may suffer. However, in December 2004 the U.S. Supreme Court agreed to review the decision of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 9th Circuit Circuit in the Grokster case. The issue to be decided by the Supreme Court is the liability of file sharing software developers and vendors for the copyright infringement that takes place on their services. Both the district court and the Ninth Circuit had found that Grokster and Streamcast could not be found contributorily and vicariously liable for the copyright infringement committed by the users of their services.
Organized industrial piracy may lead to decreased sales.
The global organized commercial pirate trade is a significant threat to the music industry. Worldwide, industrial pirated music (which encompasses unauthorized physical copies manufactured for sale but does not include Internet downloads or home CD burning) is estimated to have generated over $4.5 billion in revenues in 2003, according to IFPI. IFPI estimates that 1.7 billion pirated units were manufactured in 2003. According to IFPI estimates, approximately 35% of all music CDs sold worldwide in 2003 were pirated. Unauthorized copies and piracy contributed to the decrease in the volume of legitimate sales and put pressure on the price of legitimate sales. They have had, and may continue to have, an adverse effect on our business.
Our Restructuring Plan may not be successful and may adversely affect our business.
The scope of our Restructuring Plan is broad and significant and may cause losses to our business that we cannot predict. At the time of the consummation of the offering of our outstanding notes, we
21
had identified up to $277 million of annualized cost savings to be achieved within 18 months and had identified approximately $310 million of associated restructuring charges. Although we now expect to achieve annualized cost savings of more than $250 million by May, 2005 and expect the actual charges to be between $225 million and $250 million, we cannot assure you that:
Following our restructuring, we believe we can generate more profitable revenue, but there can be no guarantees that this will occur. The primary challenge we face in realizing the cost savings in our Restructuring Plan is avoiding increased costs required to support our ongoing operations. Specifically, a variety of factors could cause us not to achieve the benefits of the restructuring, or could result in harm to our business, including, among others, the following:
If we fail to successfully implement the remainder of the Restructuring Plan, including our cost-saving measures, our results of operations and financial position may suffer. In addition, we cannot predict the extent to which our Restructuring Plan may adversely affect our business.
Our involvement in intellectual property litigation could adversely affect our business.
Our business is highly dependent upon intellectual property, a field that has encountered increasing litigation in recent years. If we are alleged to infringe the intellectual property rights of a third party, any litigation to defend the claim could be costly and would divert the time and resources of management, regardless of the merits of the claim. There can be no assurance that we would prevail in any such litigation. If we were to lose a litigation relating to intellectual property, we could be forced to pay monetary damages and to cease the sale of certain products or the use of certain technology. Any of the foregoing may adversely affect our business.
The recorded music industry is under investigation by Eliot Spitzer, the Attorney General for the State of New York, regarding its practices in promoting its records to radio stations.
On September 7, 2004 and November 22, 2004, Eliot Spitzer, the Attorney General of the State of New York, served Warner Music Group with requests for information in the form of subpoenas duces tecum in connection with an industry-wide investigation of the relationship between music companies and radio stations, including the use of independent promoters. In response to the Attorney General's subpoenas, we have commenced the production of documents. The investigation is pursuant to New York Executive Law §63(12) and New York General Business Law §349, both of which are consumer fraud statutes. It is too soon to predict the outcome of this investigation but it has the potential to
22
result in changes in the manner in which the recorded music industry promotes its records or financial penalties, which could adversely affect our business.
Due to the nature of our business, our results of operations and cash flows may fluctuate significantly from period to period.
Our net sales, operating income and profitability, like those of other companies in the music business, are largely affected by the number and quality of albums that we release, our release schedule, and, more importantly, the consumer demand for these releases. We also make advance payments to recording artists and songwriters, which impact our operating cash flows. The timing of album releases and advance payments is largely based on business and other considerations and is made without regard to the timing of the release of our financial results. We report results of operations quarterly and our results of operations and cash flows in any reporting period may be materially affected by the timing of releases and advance payments, which may result in significant fluctuations from period to period.
Our operating results fluctuate on a seasonal and quarterly basis, and, in the event we do not generate sufficient net sales in our first fiscal quarter, we may not be able to meet our debt service and other obligations, including those under the notes.
Our business is seasonal. For the twelve months ended September 30, 2004, we derived approximately 83% of our revenues from our Recorded Music business. In the recorded music business, purchases are heavily weighted towards the last three months of the calendar year which represents our first quarter under our new September 30 fiscal year. Historically, we have realized greater than 35% of recorded music net sales worldwide during the last three months of the calendar year, making those three months (i.e., our new first fiscal quarter) material to our full-year performance. We realized 35% of recorded music calendar year net sales during the last three months of 2003. This sales seasonality affects our operating cash flow from quarter to quarter. We cannot assure you that our recorded music net sales for the last three months of any calendar year will continue to be sufficient to meet our obligations or that they will be higher than such net sales for our other quarters. In the event we do not derive sufficient recorded music net sales in such last three months, we may not be able to meet our debt service under the notes and our other obligations.
We may be unable to compete successfully in the highly competitive markets in which we operate and we may suffer reduced profits as a result.
The industry in which we operate is highly competitive, is based on consumer preferences and is rapidly changing. Additionally, the music industry requires substantial human and capital resources. We compete with other recorded music companies and music publishers to identify and sign new recording artists and songwriters who subsequently achieve long-term success and to renew agreements with established artists and songwriters. In addition, our competitors may from time to time reduce their prices in an effort to expand market share and introduce new services, or improve the quality of their products or services. We may lose business if we are unable to sign successful artists or songwriters or to match the prices or the quality of products and services, offered by our competitors. Our Music Publishing business competes not only with other music publishing companies, but also with songwriters who publish their own works. Our Recorded Music business is to a large extent dependent on technological developments, including access to and selection and viability of new technologies, and is subject to potential pressure from competitors as a result of their technological developments. For example, our Recorded Music business may be adversely affected by technological developments that facilitate the piracy of music, such as Internet peer-to-peer file-sharing and CD-R activity; by its inability to enforce our intellectual property rights in digital environments; and by its failure to develop a successful business model applicable to a digital online environment. It also faces competition from
23
other forms of entertainment and leisure activities, such as cable and satellite television, pre-recorded films on videocassettes and DVD, the Internet and computer and videogames.
Our business operations in some countries subject us to trends, developments or other events in foreign countries which may affect us adversely.
We are a global company with strong local presences, which have become increasingly important as the popularity of music originating from a country's own language and culture has increased in recent years. Our mix of national and international recording artists and songwriters provides a significant degree of diversification for our music portfolio. However, our creative content does not necessarily enjoy universal appeal. As a result, our results can be affected not only by general industry trends, but also by trends, developments or other events in individual countries, including:
We may not be able to insure or hedge against these risks, and we may not be able to ensure compliance with all of the applicable regulations without incurring additional costs. Furthermore, financing may not be available in countries with less than investment-grade sovereign credit ratings. As a result, it may be difficult to create or maintain profit-making operations in developing countries.
In addition, our results can be affected by trends, developments and other events in individual countries. There can be no assurance that in the future other country-specific trends, developments or other events will not have such a significant adverse effect on our business, results of operations or financial condition.
Our business may be adversely affected by competitive market conditions and we may not be able to execute our business strategy.
We intend to increase revenues and cash flow through a business strategy which requires us to, among other things, continue to maximize the value of our music assets, significantly reduce costs to maximize flexibility and adjust to new realities of the market, continue to act to contain digital piracy and capitalize on digital distribution and emerging technologies.
Each of these initiatives requires sustained management focus, organization and coordination over significant periods of time. Each of these initiatives also requires success in building relationships with third parties and in anticipating and keeping up with technological developments and consumer preferences. The results of the strategy and the success of our implementation of this strategy will not
24
be known for some time in the future. If we are unable to implement the strategy successfully or properly react to changes in market conditions, our financial condition, results of operations and cash flows could be adversely affected.
Our ability to operate effectively could be impaired if we fail to attract and retain our executive officers.
Our success depends, in part, upon the continuing contributions of our executive officers. Although we have employment agreements with our executive officers, there is no guarantee that they will not leave. The loss of the services of any of our executive officers or the failure to attract other executive officers could have a material adverse effect on our business or our business prospects. See "Management."
Legitimate channels for digital distribution of our creative content are a recent development, and their impact on our business is unclear and may be adverse.
We have positioned ourselves to take advantage of the Internet and wireless as a sales distribution channel and believe that the development of legitimate channels for digital music distribution holds promise for us in the future. However, legitimate channels for digital distribution are a recent development and we cannot predict their impact on our business. Any legitimate digital distribution channel that does develop may result in lower or less profitable sales for us than comparable physical sales. In addition, if piracy continues unabated and legitimate digital distribution channels fail to gain consumer acceptance, our results of operations could be harmed.
A significant portion of our music publishing revenues is subject to rate regulation either by government entities or by local third-party collection societies throughout the world, which may limit our profitability.
Mechanical royalties and performance royalties are the two largest sources of income to our Music Publishing business and mechanical royalties are a significant expense to our Recorded Music business. In the U.S., mechanical rates are set pursuant to industry negotiations contemplated by the U.S. Copyright Act and performance rates are set by performing rights societies and subject to challenge by performing rights licensees. Outside the U.S., mechanical and performance rates are typically negotiated on an industry-wide basis. The mechanical and performance rates set pursuant to such processes may adversely affect us by limiting our ability to increase the profitability of our Music Publishing business. If the mechanical rates are set too high it may also adversely affect us by limiting our ability to increase the profitability of our Recorded Music business. The German IFPI group has filed a petition with the Arbitration Board of the German Patent and Trademark Office for the reduction of the current royalty rate for licensing compact discs from 9.01% of the Published Price for Dealers (PPD) to 5.57%. If the German IFPI group succeeds or other record companies or recorded music industry groups take similar positions in other countries and succeed, this could result in a significant loss of revenues for our Music Publishing business.
Unfavorable currency exchange rate fluctuations could adversely affect our results of operations.
The reporting currency for our financial statements is the U.S. dollar. We have substantial assets, liabilities, revenues and costs denominated in currencies other than U.S. dollars. To prepare our consolidated financial statements, we must translate those assets, liabilities, revenues and expenses into U.S. dollars at then-applicable exchange rates. Consequently, increases and decreases in the value of the U.S. dollar versus other currencies will affect the amount of these items in our consolidated financial statements, even if their value has not changed in their original currency. These translations could result in significant changes to our results of operations from period to period. For the ten months ended September 30, 2004, approximately 54% of our revenues and 38% of our assets related to operations in foreign territories. See footnote 22 to our historical financial statements and the
25
accompanying notes included elsewhere in this prospectus. From time to time, we enter into foreign exchange contracts to hedge the risk of unfavorable foreign currency exchange rate movements. However, we are in the process of evaluating our hedging practices and no significant foreign exchange contracts have been entered into as of September 30, 2004. See also "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of OperationsMarket Risk Management."
We may not have full control and ability to direct the operations we conduct through joint ventures.
We currently have interests in a number of joint ventures and may in the future enter into further joint ventures as a means of conducting our business. In addition, we structure certain of our relationships with recording artists and songwriters as joint ventures. We may not be able to fully control the operations and the assets of our joint ventures, and we may not be able to make major decisions or may not be able to take timely actions with respect to our joint ventures unless our joint venture partners agree.
The enactment of legislation limiting the terms by which an individual can be bound under a "personal services" contract could impair our ability to retain the services of key artists.
California Labor Code Section 2855 ("Section 2855") limits the duration of time any individual can be bound under a contract for "personal services" to a maximum of seven years. In 1987, Subsection (b) was added, which provides a limited exception to Section 2855 for recording contracts, creating a damages remedy for record companies. Legislation was introduced in California to repeal Subsection (b) and then withdrawn. Legislation was introduced in New York to create a statute similar to Section 2855, which did not advance. There is no assurance that New York, California or any other state will not reintroduce or introduce similar legislation in the future. The repeal of Subsection (b) of Section 2855 and/or the passage of legislation similar to Section 2855 by other states could materially affect our results of operations and financial position.
We face a potential loss of catalog if it is determined that recording artists have a right to recapture rights in their recordings under the U.S. Copyright Act.
The U.S. Copyright Act provides authors (or their heirs) a right to terminate licenses or assignments of rights in their copyrighted works. This right does not apply to works that are "works made for hire". Since the effective date of U.S. copyrightability for sound recordings (February 15, 1972), virtually all of our agreements with recording artists provide that such recording artists render services under an employment-for-hire relationship. A termination right exists under the U.S. Copyright Act for musical compositions that are not "works made for hire". If any of our commercially available recordings were determined not to be "works made for hire", then the recording artists (or their heirs) could have the right to terminate the rights they granted to us, generally during a five-year period starting at the end of 35 years from the date of a post-1977 license or assignment (or, in the case of a pre-1978 grant in a pre-1978 recording, generally during a five-year period starting either at the end of 56 years from the date of copyright or on January 1, 1978, whichever is later). A termination of rights could have an adverse effect on our Recorded Music business. From time to time, authors (or their heirs) can terminate our rights in such musical compositions. However, we believe the effect of those terminations is already reflected in the financial results of our Music Publishing business.
If we acquire or invest in other businesses, we will face certain risks inherent in such transactions.
We may acquire, make investments in, or enter into strategic alliances or joint ventures with, companies engaged in businesses that are similar or complementary to ours. If we make such acquisitions or investments or enter into strategic alliances, we will face certain risks inherent in such transactions. For example, gaining regulatory approval for significant acquisitions or investments could be a lengthy process and there can be no assurance of a successful outcome. We could face difficulties in managing and integrating newly acquired operations. Additionally, such transactions would divert
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management resources and may result in the loss of artists or songwriters from our rosters. We cannot assure you that if we make any future acquisitions, investments, strategic alliances or joint ventures that they will be completed in a timely manner, that they will be structured or financed in a way that will enhance our creditworthiness or that they will meet our strategic objectives or otherwise be successful. Failure to effectively manage any of these transactions could result in material increases in costs or reductions in expected revenues, or both.
We are controlled by entities that may have conflicts of interest with us or you in the future.
The Investors control virtually all of our capital stock on a fully diluted basis. As a result, the Investors have the ability to control our policies and operations including the appointment of management and the entering into of mergers, acquisitions, sales of assets, divestitures and other extraordinary transactions. For example, the Investors could cause us to make acquisitions that increase the amount of indebtedness that is secured or senior to the notes or sell revenue-generating assets, impairing our ability to make payments under the notes. Additionally, the Investors are in the business of making investments in companies and may from time to time acquire and hold interests in businesses that compete directly or indirectly with us. The Investors may also pursue acquisition opportunities that may be complementary to our business, and, as a result, those acquisition opportunities may not be available to us. So long as the Investors continue to own a significant amount of the equity of our parent, WMG Holdings Corp., referred to in this prospectus as Holdings, even if such amount is less than 50%, they will continue to be able to strongly influence or effectively control our decisions. In addition, under certain circumstances, Time Warner, through its ownership of the warrants (as described below in "The TransactionsWarrants"), may also become a significant shareholder, which could impede our ability to pursue mergers and acquisitions, joint ventures and other arrangements.
Our reliance on one company for the manufacturing, packaging and physical distribution of our products in North America and Europe could have an adverse impact on our ability to meet our manufacturing, packaging and physical distribution requirements.
Cinram is currently our exclusive supplier of manufacturing, packaging and physical distribution services in North America and most of Europe. Accordingly, our continued ability to meet our manufacturing, packaging and physical distribution requirements in those territories depends largely on Cinram's continued successful operation in accordance with the service level requirements mandated by us in our service agreements. If, for any reason, Cinram were to fail to meet contractually required service levels, we would have difficulty satisfying our commitments to our wholesale and retail customers, which could have an adverse impact on our revenues. Even though our agreements with Cinram give us a right to terminate based upon failure to meet mandated service levels, and there are several capable substitute suppliers, it might be difficult for us to switch to substitute suppliers for any such services, particularly in the short-term, and the delay and transition time associated with finding substitute suppliers could itself have an adverse impact on our revenues. In addition, our agreements with Cinram begin to expire in the next two years, beginning in 2006. If we are unable to negotiate renewals of these agreements we would have to switch to substitute suppliers. Further, pricing negotiated with Cinram in future agreements may be more or less favorable than the existing agreements.
We may be materially and adversely affected by the separation of our business from Time Warner.
As a result of the Acquisition, we are an independent entity. We cannot assure you that our separation from Time Warner will progress smoothly, which could materially and adversely impact our results. In the past, we have relied on contractual arrangements which required Time Warner and its affiliates to provide some services such as critical transitional services and shared arrangements to us such as tax, treasury, benefits and information technology, most of which expired as of December 31,
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2004. Time Warner still provides some DX Online Services, a web-based solution designed to manage small package shipping. See "Certain Relationships and Related Party TransactionsSeller Administrative Services Agreement." However, we have replaced the majority of these services and arrangements and are in the process of replacing any remaining services and arrangements that we will still need as an independent entity. The new services and arrangements we have put in place may not operate as effectively or cost effectively as those we previously received from Time Warner and we may not be able to replace any remaining services and arrangements on terms and conditions, including service levels and cost, as favorable as those we have received from Time Warner.
We may be materially and adversely affected by the formation of Sony BMG Music Entertainment.
In August 2004 Sony Music Entertainment ("Sony") and Bertelsmann Music Group ("BMG") merged their recorded music businesses to form Sony BMG Music Entertainment ("Sony BMG"). As a result, the recorded music market now consists of four major players (Universal, Sony BMG, EMI Recorded Music ("EMI") and us) rather than five (Universal, Sony, BMG, EMI and us). Prior to the formation of Sony BMG there was one disproportionately large major, Universal, with approximately 25% market share, and four other majors relatively equal in size with market shares ranging between 11% and 14%. Now there are two majors with 25% to 30% market shares, Universal and Sony BMG, and two significantly smaller majors, EMI and us. There is a threat that the change in the competitive landscape caused by the new Universal and Sony BMG duopoly could drive up the costs of artist signings and the costs of marketing and promoting records to our detriment.
Our substantial leverage could adversely affect our ability to raise additional capital to fund our operations, limit our ability to react to changes in the economy or our industry and prevent us from meeting our obligations under the notes.
We are highly leveraged. As of September 30, 2004, our total indebtedness was $1.84 billion, including the notes. We have an additional $250 million available for borrowing under the revolving portion of our senior secured credit facilities. See "Capitalization" for additional information.
Our high degree of leverage could have important consequences for you, including:
We and our subsidiaries may be able to incur substantial additional indebtedness in the future, subject to the restrictions contained in our senior secured credit facility and the indenture relating to the notes. If new indebtedness is added to our current debt levels, the related risks that we now face could intensify.
In addition, Holdings has issued its own indebtedness, to which we are not a party. As of September 30, 2004, on a pro forma basis after giving effect to the Holdings Notes, Holdings, on a
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consolidated basis, would have had indebtedness of $2.54 billion. This has intensified the risks described above.
We may not be able to generate sufficient cash to service all of our indebtedness, including the notes, and may be forced to take other actions to satisfy our obligations under our indebtedness, which may not be successful.
Our ability to make scheduled payments on or to refinance our debt obligations depends on our financial condition and operating performance, which is subject to prevailing economic and competitive conditions and to certain financial, business and other factors beyond our control. We cannot assure you that we will maintain a level of cash flows from operating activities sufficient to permit us to pay the principal, premium, if any, and interest on our indebtedness, including the notes.
If our cash flows and capital resources are insufficient to fund our debt service obligations, we may be forced to reduce or delay investments in recording artists, and songwriters capital expenditures, or to sell assets, seek additional capital or restructure or refinance our indebtedness, including the notes. These alternative measures may not be successful and may not permit us to meet our scheduled debt service obligations. In the absence of such operating results and resources, we could face substantial liquidity problems and might be required to dispose of material assets or operations to meet our debt service and other obligations. Our senior secured credit facility and the indenture governing the notes restrict our ability to dispose of assets and use the proceeds from the disposition. We may not be able to consummate those dispositions or to obtain the proceeds which we could realize from them and these proceeds may not be adequate to meet any debt service obligations then due.
Holdings also will be relying on us and our subsidiaries to make payments on the Holdings Notes. For example, interest on Holdings' Floating Rate Senior Notes is payable quarterly, in cash, commencing in March 2005. If we do not dividend funds to Holdings in an amount sufficient to make such payments, Holdings may default under the indenture governing the Holdings Notes, which would result in all such notes becoming due and payable. Because our debt agreements have covenants that limit our ability to make payments to Holdings, Holdings may not have access to funds in an amount sufficient to service its indebtedness.
Our debt agreements contain restrictions that limit our flexibility in operating our business.
Our senior secured credit agreement and the indenture governing the notes contain various covenants that limit our ability to engage in specified types of transactions. These covenants limit our and our restricted subsidiaries' ability to, among other things:
In addition, under the senior secured credit agreement, we are required to satisfy and maintain specified financial ratios and other financial condition tests. Our ability to meet those financial ratios and tests can be affected by events beyond our control, and we cannot assure you that we will meet those ratios and tests. A breach of any of these covenants could result in a default under the senior secured credit agreement. Upon the occurrence of an event of default under the senior secured credit agreement, the
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lenders could elect to declare all amounts outstanding under the senior secured credit agreement to be immediately due and payable and terminate all commitments to extend further credit. If we were unable to repay those amounts, the lenders under the senior secured credit agreement could proceed against the collateral granted to them to secure that indebtedness. We have pledged a significant portion of our assets as collateral under the senior secured credit agreement. If the lenders under the senior secured credit agreement accelerate the repayment of borrowings, we cannot assure you that we will have sufficient assets to repay the senior secured credit agreement, as well as our unsecured indebtedness, including the notes. On December 6, 2004, we amended our senior credit facility to make certain changes. See "Description of Other Indebtedness" for a description of these changes.
Your right to receive payments on each issue of notes is effectively junior to those lenders who have a security interest in our assets.
Our obligations under the notes and our guarantors' obligations under their guarantees of the notes are unsecured, but our obligations under our senior secured credit facility and each guarantor's obligations under their respective guarantees of the senior secured credit facility are secured by a security interest in substantially all of our domestic tangible and intangible assets, including the stock of all of our wholly owned U.S. subsidiaries, and the assets and a portion of the stock of certain of our non-U.S. subsidiaries. If we are declared bankrupt or insolvent, or if we default under our senior secured credit facility, the lenders could declare all of the funds borrowed thereunder, together with accrued interest, immediately due and payable. If we were unable to repay such indebtedness, the lenders could foreclose on the pledged assets to the exclusion of holders of the notes, even if an event of default exists under the indentures under which the notes are issued at such time. Furthermore, if the lenders foreclose and sell the pledged equity interests in any subsidiary guarantor under the notes, then that guarantor will be released from its guarantee of the notes automatically and immediately upon such sale. In any such event, because the notes are not be secured by any of our assets or the equity interests in subsidiary guarantors, it is possible that there would be no assets remaining from which your claims could be satisfied or, if any assets remained, that they might be insufficient to satisfy your claims fully. See "Description of Other Indebtedness."
As of September 30, 2004, we had $1.194 billion of senior secured indebtedness (all of which would have been indebtedness under our senior secured credit facility and which would not have included availability of $250 million under the revolving portion of senior secured credit facility). The indenture governing the notes permits the incurrence of substantial additional indebtedness by us and our restricted subsidiaries in the future, including senior secured indebtedness.
Claims of noteholders will be structurally subordinate to claims of creditors of all of our non-U.S. subsidiaries and some of our U.S. subsidiaries because they do not guarantee the notes.
The notes are not guaranteed by any of our non-U.S. subsidiaries, our less-than-wholly-owned U.S. subsidiaries or certain other U.S. subsidiaries. Accordingly, claims of holders of the notes are structurally subordinate to the claims of creditors of these non-guarantor subsidiaries, including trade creditors. Without limiting the generality of the foregoing, claims of holders of the notes are also structurally subordinate to claims of the lenders under our senior secured credit facility to the extent of the guarantees by non-U.S. subsidiaries of the senior secured credit facility. All obligations of our non-guarantor subsidiaries will have to be satisfied before any of the assets of such subsidiaries would be available for distribution, upon a liquidation or otherwise to us or a guarantor of the notes.
We also have joint ventures and subsidiaries in which we own less than 100% of the equity so that, in addition to the structurally senior claims of creditors of those entities, the equity interests of our joint venture partners or other shareholders in any dividend or other distribution made by these entities would need to be satisfied on a proportionate basis with us. These joint ventures and less-than-wholly owned subsidiaries may also be subject to restrictions on their ability to distribute cash to us in their financing or other agreements, and, as a result, we may not be able to access their cash flow to service our debt obligations, including in respect of the notes.
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Your right to receive payments on the notes is junior to the rights of the lenders under our senior secured credit facility and all of our other senior debt and any of our future senior indebtedness.
The notes are general unsecured obligations that are junior in right of payment to all of our existing and future senior indebtedness. As of September 30, 2004, we had approximately $1.194 billion of senior indebtedness and, as of the date hereof, no amounts outstanding under our revolving credit facility. An additional $250 million is available to be drawn under our revolving credit facility.
We may not pay principal, premium, if any, interest or other amounts on account of the notes in the event of a payment default or certain other defaults in respect of certain of our senior indebtedness, including debt under the senior secured credit facility, unless the senior indebtedness has been paid in full or the default has been cured or waived. In addition, in the event of certain other defaults with respect to the senior indebtedness, we may not be permitted to pay any amount on account of the notes for a designated period of time.
Because of the subordination provisions in the notes, in the event of our bankruptcy, liquidation or dissolution of us, our assets will not be available to pay obligations under the senior subordinated notes until we have made all payments in cash on our senior indebtedness. We cannot assure you that sufficient assets will remain after all these payments have been made to make any payments on the notes, including payments of principal or interest when due.
You may not be able to effect service of process or enforce judgments obtained against us or the subsidiary guarantors outside the U.S.
We and the subsidiary guarantors are corporate entities organized under the laws of the U.S. None of our international subsidiaries will be guarantors of the notes. A substantial portion of both our and our subsidiary guarantors' assets are located in the U.S. and, as a result, it may not be possible for investors to effect service of process or enforce judgments obtained against us or the subsidiary guarantors outside the U.S. In addition, substantially all of our directors and executive officers reside in the U.S. and all or some portion of their assets are located in the U.S. and, as a result, it may not be possible for investors to effect service of process or enforce judgments obtained against our directors and executive officers outside the U.S.
If we default on our obligations to pay our indebtedness, we may not be able to make payments on the notes.
Any default under the agreements governing our indebtedness, including a default under the senior secured credit agreement that is not waived by the required lenders, and the remedies sought by the holders of such indebtedness could make us unable to pay principal, premium, if any, and interest on the notes and substantially decrease the market value of the notes. If we are unable to generate sufficient cash flow and are otherwise unable to obtain funds necessary to meet required payments of principal, premium, if any, and interest on our indebtedness, or if we otherwise fail to comply with the various covenants, including financial and operating covenants, in the instruments governing our indebtedness (including covenants in our senior secured credit facility and our indenture), we could be in default under the terms of the agreements governing such indebtedness, including our senior secured credit facility and the indenture. In the event of such default, the holders of such indebtedness could elect to declare all the funds borrowed thereunder to be due and payable, together with accrued and unpaid interest, the lenders under our senior secured credit facility could elect to terminate their commitments thereunder, cease making further loans and institute foreclosure proceedings against our assets, and we could be forced into bankruptcy or liquidation. If our operating performance declines, we may in the future need to obtain waivers from the required lenders under our senior secured credit facility to avoid being in default. If we breach our covenants under our senior secured credit facility and seek a waiver, we may not be able to obtain a waiver from the required lenders. If this occurs, we
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would be in default under our senior secured credit facility, the lenders could exercise their rights, as described above, and we could be forced into bankruptcy or liquidation.
We may not be able to repurchase the notes upon a change of control.
Upon the occurrence of specific kinds of change of control events, we will be required to offer to repurchase all outstanding notes at 101% of their principal amount plus accrued and unpaid interest. The source of funds for any such purchase of the notes will be our available cash or cash generated from our subsidiaries' operations or other sources, including borrowings, sales of assets or sales of equity. We may not be able to repurchase the notes upon a change of control because we may not have sufficient financial resources to purchase all of the notes that are tendered upon a change of control. Further, we will be contractually restricted under the terms of our senior secured credit facility from repurchasing all of the notes tendered by holders upon a change of control. Accordingly, we may not be able to satisfy our obligations to purchase the notes unless we are able to refinance or obtain waivers under our senior secured credit facility. Our failure to repurchase the notes upon a change of control would cause a default under the indentures and a cross-default under the senior secured credit facility. The senior secured credit agreement also provides that a change of control will be a default that permits lenders to accelerate the maturity of borrowings thereunder. Any of our future debt agreements may contain similar provisions.
You may face foreign exchange risks or tax consequences as a result of investing in the sterling notes.
A portion of the notes will be denominated and payable in pounds sterling. If you are a U.S. investor, an investment in the sterling notes entails foreign exchange-related risks due to, among other factors, possible significant changes in the value of the pound sterling relative to the U.S. dollar due to economic, political and other factors over which we have no control. Depreciation of the pound sterling against the U.S. dollar could cause a decrease in the effective yield of the sterling notes below their stated coupon rates and could result in a loss to you on a U.S. dollar basis. The investment in the sterling notes by U.S. investors may also have important tax consequences. See "Material U.S. Federal Income Tax Consequences."
Conversion of the pound sterling to the euro may affect your investment in the notes.
Although the U.K. government exercised its opt-out from the European Economic and Monetary Union and did not adopt the euro to replace the pound sterling, it has indicated that in the future it may adopt the euro as the currency of the U.K. Investors in the sterling notes are advised that if the euro is adopted in the U.K., the euro will replace pounds sterling as the legal tender in the U.K. and will result in the effective redenomination of the sterling notes into euros. There can be no assurance that the euro, if adopted by the U.K., will maintain its value relative to other currencies. If the euro is adopted in the U.K and if the value of the euro were to decline relative to other currencies, the value of the sterling notes (as redenominated into euros) would necessarily decline relative to such currencies.
Federal and state fraudulent transfer laws may permit a court to void the notes and the guarantees, and, if that occurs, you may not receive any payments on the notes.
The issuance of the notes and the guarantees may be subject to review under federal and state fraudulent transfer and conveyance statutes. While the relevant laws may vary from state to state, under such laws the payment of consideration will be a fraudulent conveyance if (1) Warner Music Group paid the consideration with the intent of hindering, delaying or defrauding creditors or (2) Warner Music Group or any of the guarantors, as applicable, received less than reasonably
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equivalent value or fair consideration in return for issuing either the notes or a guarantee, and, in the case of (2) only, one of the following is also true:
If a court were to find that the issuance of the notes or a guarantee was a fraudulent conveyance, the court could void the payment obligations under the notes or such guarantee or further subordinate the notes or such guarantee to presently existing and future indebtedness of Warner Music Group or such guarantor, or require the holders of the notes to repay any amounts received with respect to the notes or such guarantee. In the event of a finding that a fraudulent conveyance occurred, you may not receive any repayment on the notes. Further, the voidance of the notes could result in an event of default with respect to our and our subsidiaries' other debt that could result in acceleration of such debt.
Your ability to transfer the exchange notes may be limited by the absence of an active trading market, and there is no assurance that any active trading market will develop for the exchange notes.
The exchange notes are a new issue of securities for which there is no established public market. Although application has been made to list the exchange sterling notes on the Luxembourg Stock Exchange, we do not intend to apply for listing of the exchange dollar notes on a securities exchange. There is no guarantee that the notes will be approved for listing on the Luxembourg Stock Exchange. The initial purchasers have advised us that they intend to make a market in the exchange notes, as permitted by applicable laws and regulations; however, the initial purchasers are not obligated to make a market, and they may discontinue their market-making activities at any time without notice. Therefore, we cannot assure you that an active market for the exchange notes will develop or, if developed, that it will continue. Historically, the market for non-investment grade debt has been subject to disruptions that have caused substantial volatility in the prices of securities similar to the exchange notes. We cannot assure you that the market, if any, for the exchange notes will be free from similar disruptions or that any such disruptions may not adversely affect the prices at which you may sell your exchange notes. In addition, subsequent to their initial issuance, the exchange notes may trade at a discount from their initial offering price, depending upon prevailing interest rates, the market for similar notes, our performance and other factors.
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SPECIAL NOTE REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS
All statements other than statements of historical facts included in this prospectus, including, without limitation, statements regarding our future financial position, business strategy, budgets, projected costs, savings and plans and objectives of management for future operations, are forward-looking statements. In addition, forward-looking statements generally can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as "may," "will," "expect," "intend," "estimate," "anticipate," "believe" or "continue" or the negative thereof or variations thereon or similar terminology. Although we believe that the expectations reflected in such forward-looking statements are reasonable, we can give no assurance that such expectations will prove to have been correct. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from our expectations ("cautionary statements") are disclosed under "Risk Factors" and elsewhere in this prospectus, including, without limitation, in conjunction with the forward-looking statements included in this prospectus. All subsequent written and oral forward-looking statements attributable to us, or persons acting on our behalf, are expressly qualified in their entirety by the cautionary statements.
There are a number of risks and uncertainties that could cause our actual results to differ materially from the forward-looking statements contained in this prospectus. As stated elsewhere in this prospectus, such risks, uncertainties and other important factors include, among others:
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There may be other factors not presently known to us or which we currently consider to be immaterial that may cause our actual results to differ materially from the forward-looking statements.
All forward-looking statements attributable to us or persons acting on our behalf apply only as of the date of this prospectus and are expressly qualified in their entirety by the cautionary statements included in this prospectus. We undertake no obligation to publicly update or revise forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date made or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events.
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The exchange offers are intended to satisfy our obligations under the registration rights agreement that we entered into in connection with the private offering of the outstanding notes. We will not receive any cash proceeds from the issuance of the exchange notes in the exchange offers. As consideration for issuing the exchange notes as contemplated in this prospectus, we will receive in exchange a like principal amount of outstanding notes, the terms of which are identical in all material respects to the exchange notes, except that the exchange notes will not contain terms with respect to transfer restrictions or additional interest upon a failure to fulfill certain of our obligations under the registration rights agreement. The outstanding notes that are surrendered in exchange for the exchange notes will be retired and cancelled and cannot be reissued. As a result, the issuance of the exchange notes will not result in any increase or decrease in our capitalization.
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The following table sets forth our cash and equivalents and capitalization as of September 30, 2004 on (i) an actual basis and (ii) pro forma for the Return of Capital as if it all had occurred as of September 30, 2004. The information should be read in conjunction with "The Transactions," "Pro Forma Combined Condensed Financial Data," "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations" and our historical combined financial statements and accompanying notes thereto appearing elsewhere in this prospectus.
The following table reflects the cash and equivalents and capitalization of WMG only, and not of Holdings. Accordingly, the table does not reflect the $700 million of Holdings Notes that were issued by Holdings in December 2004.
|
As of September 30, 2004 |
||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Actual |
Pro Forma for Return of Capital |
|||||
|
(in millions) |
||||||
Cash and equivalents | $ | 555 | $ | 213 | |||
Debt: | |||||||
Revolving credit facility(1) | | | |||||
Term loan | 1,194 | 1,194 | |||||
Outstanding senior subordinated notes(2) | 646 | 646 | |||||
Total debt | $ | 1,840 | $ | 1,840 | |||
Total shareholder's equity | 978 | 636 | |||||
Total capitalization | $ | 2,818 | $ | 2,476 | |||
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The following is, among other things, a summary of the Acquisition and the material terms of the purchase agreement, dated as of November 24, 2003, as amended on March 1, 2004, between Time Warner and Warner Music Group. The following summary is qualified in its entirety by reference to the purchase agreement.
In addition to the purchase agreement, at the closing of the Acquisition, the parties entered into agreements governing certain relationships between and among the parties after the closing of the Acquisition. These agreements include a stockholders agreement, a seller services agreement, a purchaser services agreement, and a management agreement. See "Certain Relationships and Related Party Transactions" for descriptions of these agreements.
The Acquisition
On March 1, 2004, Warner Music Group, a company indirectly owned by the Investors, acquired substantially all of our business. The initial purchase price for the Acquisition was $2.595 billion (subject to customary post-closing adjustments), consisting of $2.560 billion in cash and $35 million in non-cash consideration in the form of warrants issued to Time Warner.
On November 15, 2004, we and Time Warner made certain Section 338(h)(10) elections under the Internal Revenue Code, which, for tax purposes, increased the cost basis of our assets and will allow us to deduct the associated annual depreciation and amortization expenses.
The Financing and the Refinancing
We financed the Acquisition, related fees and expenses and a portion of our identified restructuring costs through our Original Financing of (i) $1.15 billion of borrowings under the term loan portion of our senior secured credit facility, which, in addition to the term loan facility, includes a $250 million revolving credit facility, (ii) borrowings under a $500 million senior subordinated bridge loan facility and (iii) a $1.25 billion aggregate initial capital investment by the Investors. See "Description of Other Indebtedness."
For the Refinancing we applied the proceeds from the offering of the outstanding notes, an additional $50 million of borrowings under the term loan portion of our senior secured credit facility plus available cash on hand, to (i) repay all amounts outstanding under our senior subordinated bridge loan facility plus accrued and unpaid interest, (ii) return a portion of the initial capital investment by the Investors and (iii) pay fees and expenses (the Refinancing, together with the Original Financing and the Acquisition, the "Transactions").
The following table sets forth the sources and uses of funds as if the Refinancing had occurred on March 1, 2004 simultaneously with the Acquisition and the Original Financing:
Sources |
|
Uses |
|
||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
(in millions) |
|
(in millions) |
|
||||||
Revolving credit facility(1) | $ | | Purchase price(2) | $ | 2,606 | ||||
Term loan | 1,200 | Purchase price adjustments(4) | (72 | ) | |||||
Senior subordinated notes(3) | 650 | Interest to Time Warner(5) | 26 | ||||||
Capital investment by the Investors | 1,048 | Total cash consideration(2) | 2,560 | ||||||
Fees and expenses(6) | 200 | ||||||||
Cash to balance sheet | 138 | ||||||||
Total sources | $ | 2,898 | Total uses | $ | 2,898 | ||||
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Warrants
A portion of the consideration paid to Time Warner by Warner Music Group was in the form of warrants in Parent Corp. and Holdings that were issued to Time Warner.
One of the warrants gives Time Warner the right to purchase approximately 19.9% of Class L common stock of Parent, 19.9% of Class A stock of Parent, without giving effect to immaterial issuances of Class A common stock of Parent to certain employees subsequent to the issuance of the warrants, and would have given Time Warner the right to purchase approximately 19.9% of the preferred securities of Holdings held by the Investors calculated as of September 30, 2004 and taking into account the exercise of the warrant (the "MMT Warrants"). However, the preferred securities of Holdings held by the Investors were redeemed in full in connection with the Holdings' Payment to Investors. Time Warner may exercise its rights under the MMT Warrants (i) upon the sale to certain music companies of all or substantially all of the recorded music business or music publishing business conducted by us or the acquisition by certain music companies of 35% of the outstanding shares of Parent or Holdings; (ii) the acquisition of all or substantially all of the recorded music business or music publishing business of certain music companies; or (iii) a merger with or the formation of a joint venture or other combination of all or substantially all of Parent or Holdings' recorded music business or music publishing business with that of certain music companies. If a definitive agreement for such a transaction is not executed by March 1, 2007, the MMT Warrants will expire. Additionally, the MMT Warrants will expire if the Three Year Warrants (defined herein) are exercised in whole or in part.
There are additional warrants (the "Three Year Warrants") that give Time Warner the right to purchase approximately 15% of Class L common stock of Parent, 15% of Class A common stock of Parent, without giving effect to immaterial issuances of Class A common stock of Parent to certain employees subsequent to the issuance of the warrants, and would have given Time Warner the right to purchase approximately 19.9% of the preferred securities of Holdings held by the Investors calculated as of September 30, 2004 and taking into account the exercise of the Three Year Warrants. However, the preferred securities of Holdings held by the Investors were redeemed in full in connection with the
39
Holdings' Payment to Investors. Time Warner may exercise its rights under the Three Year Warrants at any time after the closing of the Acquisition until the earliest of: (i) March 1, 2007; (ii) the consummation of any public equity offering that results in all of the common and preferred securities of Parent or Holdings outstanding immediately after such public offering being publicly traded; (iii) the sale for cash and/or securities of a class that is publicly traded to a third-party of a majority of the then-outstanding common and preferred securities of Parent or Holdings; and (iv) the exercise of the MMT Warrants.
Representations and Warranties; Indemnification
The purchase agreement contains customary representations and warranties of Time Warner and of Warner Music Group, including representations and warranties of Time Warner regarding organization, authorization, non-contravention, governmental consents, capital stock of the companies, subsidiaries, financial statements, absence of certain changes, no undisclosed material liabilities, material contracts, compliance with laws and court orders, litigation, title to real property, sufficiency of the acquired assets, intellectual property rights, licenses and permits, tax matters, employee plans, environmental compliance and brokers. Warner Music Group's right to obtain indemnification from Time Warner, and the right of Time Warner to obtain indemnification from Warner Music Group, for any breach of these respective representations and warranties is generally limited to an aggregate amount of losses in excess of approximately $26 million, subject to a cap equal to approximately $260 million.
Other Provisions
No-Solicit; No-Hire
Subject to certain exceptions, for two years after March 1, 2004, Time Warner and its affiliates may not solicit or employ any employee who was employed in our businesses immediately before the closing.
Employee Matters and Pension
For one year after March 1, 2004, we will provide our employees with base salary, bonus and other cash-based compensation opportunities based on targets we establish and severance benefits that are no less favorable than provided to our employees immediately prior to the acquisition. In addition, we have agreed to be responsible for funding of pension benefit obligations of up to $25 million subsequent to the date of the purchase agreement for current and former employees of the business under non-U.S.-based defined benefit pension plans maintained by Time Warner or any of its subsidiaries. We have also otherwise agreed to be responsible for any employment-related liabilities attributable to current and former employees of the business under Time Warner benefit plans other than any U.S. defined benefit pension plan, U.S. retiree medical plan, non-qualified deferred compensation plan or severance plan covering individuals who were not employees of the business as of November 24, 2003.
Use of Names and Logos
Warner Music Group has agreed to license from two subsidiaries of Time Warner, on a royalty free basis pursuant to trademark license agreements, certain trademarks and service marks used in the business. The terms of the licenses, subject to provisions providing for termination for cause, is in perpetuity with respect to the marks WARNER, WARNER MUSIC, and a "W" logo and fifteen years with respect WARNER BROS. RECORDS, WARNER BROS. PUBLICATIONS, and WB & Shield designs.
40
The Investors
THL, Bain Capital and Providence Equity are three of the world's preeminent private equity investment firms. With in excess of $35 billion under management in the aggregate, THL, Bain Capital and Providence Equity have considerable investment experience and a long history of working and investing together. These firms, in particular, have a deep knowledge of the global media and entertainment industry with recent investments in media, entertainment, publishing and cable television.
In addition, Edgar Bronfman, Jr., an investor through Music Capital and our Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer, has significant and directly relevant management experience in the music industry. From 1994 to 2000, Mr. Bronfman served as President and CEO of Seagram. During his tenure as CEO of Seagram, he consummated $85 billion in transactions, transformed the company into one of the world's leading media and communications companies and supervised the creation of the world's largest music company in 1998 through the merger of Universal and PolyGram.
THL is a leading private equity firm founded in 1974 that currently manages several private equity funds with aggregate capital commitments of approximately $14 billion. THL has invested in more than 80 businesses and is currently investing from Thomas H. Lee Equity Fund V, an equity fund with over $6.1 billion of committed capital. Recent media-related investments include ProSiebenSAT.1 Media, the largest private television network in Germany, Houghton Mifflin Company, a leading educational publisher, American Media and TransWestern Publishing. THL has more than 20 investment professionals based in Boston.
Bain Capital is a leading global private investment firm that manages several pools of capital including private equity, venture capital, high-yield assets, mezzanine capital and public equity with over $16 billion in assets under management. Since its inception in 1984, the firm has raised seven private equity funds and made private equity investments and add-on acquisitions in over 250 companies around the world, in a variety of sectors, including media and entertainment. Recent media-related investments include ProSiebenSAT.1 Media, Houghton Mifflin Company and Artisan Entertainment. Bain Capital has more than 160 investment professionals, with its headquarters in Boston and additional offices in New York, London and Munich.
Providence Equity is one of the world's leading private investment firms specializing in equity investments in media and communications companies. The principals of Providence Equity manage funds with over $5 billion in equity commitments, including Providence Equity Partners IV, a $2.8 billion private equity fund, and have invested in more than 70 companies operating in over 20 countries since the firm's inception in 1991. Current and previous areas of investment include cable television content and distribution, wireless and wireline telephony, publishing, radio and television broadcasting and other media and communications sectors. Recent media investments include Kabel Deutschland (Germany's largest cable operator), Mountain States Cable, Casema, F&W Publications and ProSiebenSAT.1 Media.
41
Ownership and Corporate Structure
The chart below summarizes our ownership and corporate structure as of December 31, 2004.
42
PRO FORMA CONSOLIDATED CONDENSED STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS
The following unaudited pro forma consolidated condensed balance sheet as of September 30, 2004 gives effect to the Return of Capital as if it had occurred as of that date. All financial effects resulting from the Acquisition and the Original Financing, the Cinram Agreements and the Refinancing are already reflected in the Company's historical balance sheet as of September 30, 2004, and accordingly, no pro forma adjustments to the balance sheet are necessary.
The following unaudited pro forma consolidated condensed statement of operations for the twelve months ended September 30, 2004 gives effect to (i) the Acquisition and the Original Financing, (ii) the Cinram Agreements and (iii) the Refinancing as if they occurred as of October 1, 2003. Because we presented a shortened ten-month, transition period in the historical financial statements relating to our change in fiscal year that was enacted in 2004, the unaudited pro forma consolidated condensed statement of operations has been further adjusted to present a full consecutive twelve-month period ended September 30, 2004 in order to provide more meaningful information to the users of our financial information.
The pro forma consolidated condensed financial statements have been derived from, and should be read in conjunction with, our historical audited financial statements, including the notes thereto, included elsewhere herein. The pro forma consolidated condensed financial statements are presented for informational purposes only and are not necessarily indicative of our financial position or results of operations that would have occurred had the events been consummated as of the dates indicated. In addition, the pro forma consolidated condensed financial statements are not necessarily indicative of our future financial condition or operating results.
The Acquisition and the Original Financing
Pro forma adjustments for the Acquisition and the Original Financing reflect our purchase effective on March 1, 2004 for an aggregate purchase price of $2.649 billion, including $78 million of direct acquisition costs (excluding financing fees) and a $24 million reduction in the purchase price subsequently agreed to between the Investors and Time Warner that has yet to be settled. The consideration exchanged consisted of $2.560 billion of cash and $35 million of non-cash consideration in the form of warrants that give Time Warner the right to purchase common stock of Parent under certain conditions. The terms of the warrants are described elsewhere herein.
The cash portion of the Acquisition, including $78 million of direct acquisition costs, was financed by a $1.250 billion initial capital investment by the Investors and aggregate borrowings of $1.388 billion under the term loan portion of our senior secured credit facility and under our former senior subordinated bridge loan facility. We incurred $262 million of additional indebtedness under the term loan portion of the senior secured credit facility to pay certain financing-related fees, as well as to fund future working capital requirements that included a portion of the anticipated costs to restructure the business.
Restructuring Plan
We have conducted a detailed assessment of our existing cost structure. As a result of this assessment, we have identified substantial cost-reduction opportunities in our business, the majority of which are associated with headcount reductions from the consolidation of operations and the streamlining of corporate and label overhead. By the end of September 2004, we had implemented approximately $240 million of annualized cost savings, of which approximately $90 million has been reflected in our statement of operations through September 30, 2004. We expect to complete substantially all of our restructuring efforts by May 2005 with annualized cost savings of more than $250 million. We project the one-time costs associated with our restructuring to be $225 million to $250 million, of which approximately $105 million has been paid through September 30, 2004. Because
43
there are still significant risks associated with the Restructuring Plan, we have not given pro forma effect to any cost savings or incremental one-time costs that have not already been reflected in our historical financial statements. See "Risk Factors."
Purchase Price Allocation
The Acquisition was accounted for under the purchase method of accounting for business combinations. Accordingly, the estimated cost to acquire such assets was allocated to our underlying net assets in proportion to their respective fair values. Most of the valuations and other studies which provide the basis for such an allocation have been completed; however, we are still waiting for certain information in order to finalize the purchase price allocation, including a final settlement of terms with Time Warner. As more fully described in the notes to the pro forma condensed financial statements, a preliminary allocation of the excess of cost over the book value of net tangible assets has been made to identifiable intangible assets in the amounts of $1.216 billion to recorded music catalog, $808 million to music publishing copyrights, $978 million to goodwill and $110 million to trademarks.
The Cinram Agreements
Prior to the end of October 2003, we purchased manufacturing, packaging and physical distribution services from affiliates of Time Warner that were under the common control of Time Warner and our management. Pricing for such services was not negotiated on an arm's-length basis and did not reflect market rates. At the end of October 2003, Time Warner sold its CD and DVD manufacturing, packaging and physical distribution operations to Cinram. As part of the sale, we and Time Warner entered into long-term arrangements with Cinram under which Cinram provides manufacturing, packaging and physical distribution services for our products in the U.S. and Europe. Accordingly, the pro forma consolidated condensed statement of operations has been adjusted to reflect the more favorable market-based rates negotiated on an arm's-length basis under the Cinram Agreements for the October 2003 period in which the Cinram Agreements were not in effect.
The Refinancing
Pro forma adjustments for the Refinancing reflect the interest-related effects relating to the issuance of approximately $650 million principal amount of the notes, an additional $50 million of borrowings under the term loan portion of our senior secured credit facility plus available cash on hand to (i) repay all $500 million in borrowings under the senior subordinated bridge loan facility and (ii) return a portion of the initial capital investment by the Investors in the amount of $202 million.
The Return of Capital
We recently returned an additional $350 million of capital to Investors. The Return of Capital was funded out of our excess cash balance and not from the incurrence of additional debt. We obtained an amendment to our credit agreement to provide for the Return of Capital. The Return of Capital on September 30, 2004 consisted of a dividend of $8 million paid on the preferred equity securities of Holdings held by the Investors and notes payable of $342 million by Parent to the Investors. Pro forma adjustments for the Return of Capital only reflect the October payment of $342 million to satisfy the notes payable as the September payment was already reflected in Holdings' historical consolidated balance sheet.
Interest Rate Sensitivity
As of September 30, 2004, we had $894 million of funded variable-rate indebtedness, net of the effect of $300 million notional amount of interest-rate swaps that effectively convert a portion of our variable-rate indebtedness to fixed-rate indebtedness. As such, we are sensitive to changes in interest rates. For each 0.125% increase or decrease in interest rates, our interest expense and net loss each would increase or decrease, respectively, by approximately $1 million.
44
WARNER MUSIC GROUP
PRO FORMA CONSOLIDATED CONDENSED BALANCE SHEET
As of September 30, 2004
|
Historical(1) |
Pro Forma Adjustment for Return of Capital(2) |
Pro Forma |
|||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
(in millions, unaudited) |
|||||||||
Assets | ||||||||||
Current assets: | ||||||||||
Cash and equivalents | $ | 555 | $ | (342 | ) | $ | 213 | |||
Accounts receivable | 571 | | 571 | |||||||
Inventories | 65 | | 65 | |||||||
Royalty advances expected to be recouped within one year | 223 | | 223 | |||||||
Deferred tax assets | 38 | | 38 | |||||||
Other current assets | 86 | | 86 | |||||||
Total current assets | 1,538 | (342 | ) | 1,196 | ||||||
Royalty advances expected to be recouped after one year | 223 | | 223 | |||||||
Investments | 8 | | 8 | |||||||
Property, plant and equipment | 189 | | 189 | |||||||
Goodwill | 978 | | 978 | |||||||
Intangible assets subject to amortization | 1,937 | | 1,937 | |||||||
Intangible assets not subject to amortization | 100 | | 100 | |||||||
Other assets | 117 | | 117 | |||||||
Total assets | $ | 5,090 | $ | (342 | ) | $ | 4,748 | |||
Liabilities and Shareholder's Equity |
||||||||||
Current liabilities: | ||||||||||
Accounts payable | $ | 226 | $ | | $ | 226 | ||||
Accrued royalties | 1,003 | | 1,003 | |||||||
Taxes and other withholdings | 10 | | 10 | |||||||
Current portion of long-term debt | 12 | | 12 | |||||||
Other current liabilities | 432 | | 432 | |||||||
Total current liabilities | 1,683 | | 1,683 | |||||||
Long-term debt | 1,828 | | 1,828 | |||||||
Deferred tax liabilities | 265 | | 265 | |||||||
Other noncurrent liabilities | 333 | | 333 | |||||||
Due to WMG Parent Corp. | 3 | | 3 | |||||||
Total liabilities | 4,112 | | 4,112 | |||||||
Shareholder's equity | 978 | (342 | ) | 636 | ||||||
Total liabilities and shareholder's equity | $ | 5,090 | $ | (342 | ) | $ | 4,748 | |||
45
WARNER MUSIC GROUP
PRO FORMA CONSOLIDATED CONDENSED STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS
For The Twelve Months Ended September 30, 2004
|
|
|
|
Pro Forma Adjustments |
|
|||||||||||||||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
|
|
Subtotal Historical Twelve Months Ended September 30, 2004 |
|
||||||||||||||||||||||
|
Historical Combined Ten Months Ended September 30, 2004(3) |
Historical Two Months Ended November 30, 2003(4) |
Excluded Net Assets(5) |
The Acquisition and the Original Financing(6) |
The Cinram Agreements(7) |
The Refinancing(8) |
Pro Forma |
|||||||||||||||||||
|
(in millions, unaudited) |
|||||||||||||||||||||||||
Revenues | $ | 2,548 | $ | 889 | $ | 3,437 | $ | (1 | ) | $ | | $ | | $ | | $ | 3,436 | |||||||||
Costs and expenses: | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Costs of revenues(a) | (1,359 | ) | (491 | ) | (1,850 | ) | 2 | | 5 | | (1,843 | ) | ||||||||||||||
Selling, general and administrative expenses(a) | (996 | ) | (291 | ) | (1,287 | ) | | (4 | ) | | | (1,291 | ) | |||||||||||||
Impairment of goodwill and other intangible assets | | (1,019 | ) | (1,019 | ) | | | | (1,019 | ) | ||||||||||||||||
Amortization of intangible assets | (160 | ) | (41 | ) | (201 | ) | | 23 | | | (178 | ) | ||||||||||||||
Restructuring costs | (26 | ) | (8 | ) | (34 | ) | | | | | (34 | ) | ||||||||||||||
Total costs and expenses | (2,541 | ) | (1,850 | ) | (4,391 | ) | 2 | 19 | 5 | | (4,365 | ) | ||||||||||||||
Operating income (loss) | 7 | (961 | ) | (954 | ) | 1 | 19 | 5 | | (929 | ) | |||||||||||||||
Interest expense, net | (82 | ) | | (82 | ) | (5 | ) | (40 | ) | | (8 | ) | (135 | ) | ||||||||||||
Net investment-related losses | | (9 | ) | (9 | ) | | | | | (9 | ) | |||||||||||||||
Equity in the losses of equitymethod investees, net | (4 | ) | (9 | ) | (13 | ) | (1 | ) | | | | (14 | ) | |||||||||||||
Deal-related transaction and other costs | | (63 | ) | (63 | ) | | | | | (63 | ) | |||||||||||||||
Loss on repayment of bridge loan | (6 | ) | | (6 | ) | | | | 6 | | ||||||||||||||||
Other expense, net | (4 | ) | (7 | ) | (11 | ) | | | | | (11 | ) | ||||||||||||||
Income (loss) before income taxes | (89 | ) | (1,049 | ) | (1,138 | ) | (5 | ) | (21 | ) | 5 | (2 | ) | (1,161 | ) | |||||||||||
Income tax benefit (expense) | (47 | ) | (65 | ) | (112 | ) | 423 | | | 2 | 313 | |||||||||||||||
Net income (loss) | $ | (136 | ) | $ | (1,114 | ) | $ | (1,250 | ) | $ | 418 | $ | (21 | ) | $ | 5 | $ | | $ | (848 | ) | |||||
(a)Includes depreciation expense of: | $ | (52 | ) | $ | (15 | ) | $ | (67 | ) | $ | | $ | | $ | | $ | | $ | (67 | ) | ||||||
46
WARNER MUSIC GROUP
NOTES TO THE PRO FORMA CONSOLIDATED CONDENSED STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS
|
Successor |
Predecessor |
Combined |
||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Seven-Month Period Ended September 30, 2004 |
Three-Month Period Ended February 29, 2004 |
Ten-Month Period Ended September 30, 2004 |
||||||||
Revenues | $ | 1,769 | $ | 779 | $ | 2,548 | |||||
Costs and expenses: | |||||||||||
Costs of revenues(a) | (944 | ) | (415 | ) | (1,359 | ) | |||||
Selling, general and administrative expenses(a) | (677 | ) | (319 | ) | (996 | ) | |||||
Impairment of goodwill and other intangible assets | | | | ||||||||
Amortization of intangible assets | (104 | ) | (56 | ) | (160 | ) | |||||
Restructuring costs | (26 | ) | | (26 | ) | ||||||
Total costs and expenses | (1,751 | ) | (790 | ) | (2,541 | ) | |||||
Operating income (loss) | 18 | (11 | ) | 7 | |||||||
Interest expense, net | (80 | ) | (2 | ) | (82 | ) | |||||
Net investment-related losses | | | | ||||||||
Equity in the losses of equity-method investees, net | (2 | ) | (2 | ) | (4 | ) | |||||
Deal-related transaction and other costs | | | | ||||||||
Loss on repayment of bridge loan | (6 | ) | | (6 | ) | ||||||
Other expense, net | (4 | ) | | (4 | ) | ||||||
Income (loss) before income taxes | (74 | ) | (15 | ) | (89 | ) | |||||
Income tax benefit (expense) | (30 | ) | (17 | ) | (47 | ) | |||||
Net income (loss) | $ | (104 | ) | $ | (32 | ) | $ | (136 | ) | ||
(a) Includes depreciation expense of: | $ | (36 | ) | $ | (16 | ) | $ | (52 | ) | ||
47
operations to Cinram, and (v) the elimination of $423 million of tax expense relating to the write-off of a deferred tax asset for net operating losses that was only available to us while we remained a member of the Time Warner consolidated tax return.
48
to our finite-lived identifiable intangible assets. The pro forma adjustment for new amortization expense was calculated as follows:
Intangible Assets Acquired |
Allocated Value |
Weighted-Average Useful Life |
Annual Amortization Expense |
Pro Forma Adjustments For the Five-Month, Pre-Acquisition Period Ended February 29, 2004 |
||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
(millions) |
(years) |
(millions) |
(millions) |
||||||||
Finited-Lived Intangible Assets: | ||||||||||||
Recorded music catalog | $ | 1,216 | 10 | $ | 122 | $ | 51 | |||||
Music publishing catalog | 808 | 15 | 54 | 23 | ||||||||
Trademarks | 10 | 15 | 1 | | ||||||||
Other intangible assets subject to amortization | 5 | 5 | 1 | | ||||||||
$ | 2,039 | $ | 178 | $ | 74 | |||||||
Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets: |
||||||||||||
Trademarks | $ | 100 | Indefinite | | | |||||||
Goodwill | 978 | Indefinite | | | ||||||||
$ | 1,078 | | | |||||||||
Total intangible assets | $ | 3,117 | $ | 178 | $ | 74 | ||||||
49
incurred on the repayment of the bridge loan. The pro forma adjustment to interest expense is calculated as follows:
Description |
Annual Interest Expense(a) |
Amount of Interest Expense in Historical Operating Results |
Pro Forma Adjustment |
|||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Issuance of $465 million principal amount of U.S. Dollar Notes at a fixed interest rate of 7.375% per annum |
$ |
34 |
$ |
16 |
$ |
18 |
|||||
|
Issuance of £100 million principal amount of Sterling Notes at a fixed interest rate of 8.125% per annum, which has been translated at a U.S. Dollar equivalent rate of $1.80 per British Pound |
15 |
7 |
8 |
||||||||
|
Additional $50 million of borrowings under the term loan portion of our senior secured credit facility at a variable interest rate of 4.01% per annum |
2 |
1 |
1 |
||||||||
|
Amortization of $34 million of debt issuance costs arising from the issuance of the Notes over a weighted average life of 10 years |
3 |
2 |
1 |
||||||||
$ |
54 |
$ |
26 |
$ |
28 |
|||||||
Elimination of pro forma interest expense relating to the repayment of $500 million of borrowings under our senior subordinated bridge facility |
(20 |
) |
||||||||||
$ |
8 |
|||||||||||
No tax benefit has been provided on the aggregate pro forma decrease in U.S.-based pretax income due to the uncertainty of realization of the Company's U.S.-based deferred tax assets. However, tax benefits of $2 million have been provided at a 30% tax rate on the $8 million pro forma decrease in international pretax income relating to the Sterling Notes.
50
SELECTED HISTORICAL CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL AND OTHER DATA
The following table sets forth our selected historical financial and other data as of the dates and for the periods indicated.
Our selected balance sheet data as of September 30, 2004 and November 30, 2003 and the statement of operations and other data for each of (i) the seven months ended September 30, 2004, (ii) the three months ended February 29, 2004, (iii) the ten months ended September 30, 2003 and (iv) the years ended November 30, 2003 and 2002 have been derived from our audited financial statements included elsewhere in this prospectus. The balance sheet data as of November 30, 2002 are derived from our audited financial statements that are not included in this prospectus. Our summary historical balance sheet data as of the ten months ended September 30, 2003 and our summary historical financial data as of and for each of the two years ended November 30, 2001 and 2000 have been derived from our unaudited financial statements that are not included in this prospectus.
The comparability of our selected historical financial data has been affected by a number of significant events and transactions. These include the Acquisition in 2004, a related change in our fiscal year to September 30 from November 30, which was enacted in 2004, and the AOL Time Warner Merger in 2001. For all periods prior to the Acquisition, the music and publishing businesses formerly owned by Time Warner are referred to as "Old WMG" or the "Predecessor." For all periods subsequent to the Acquisition, the business is referred to as the "Company" or the "Successor." Due to the change in our year end, financial information for 2004 reflects a shortened ten-month period ended September 30, 2004 and is separated into two pre-acquisition and post-acquisition periods as a result of the change in accounting basis that occurred relating to the Acquisition. In addition, summary historical financial data for 2000 does not reflect the pushdown of a portion of the purchase price relating to the AOL Time Warner Merger that occurred in 2001 to our financial statements.
|
Predecessor |
Successor |
||||||||||||||||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Fiscal Years Ended November 30, |
Ten Months Ended September 30, 2003 |
Three Months Ended February 29, 2004 |
Seven Months Ended September 30, 2004 |
||||||||||||||||||||
|
2000 |
2001 |
2002 |
2003 |
||||||||||||||||||||
|
(unaudited) |
(unaudited) |
(audited)(1) |
(audited)(1) |
(unaudited) |
(audited)(1) |
(audited)(1) |
|||||||||||||||||
Statement of Operations Data: | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Revenues | $ | 3,461 | $ | 3,226 | $ | 3,290 | $ | 3,376 | $ | 2,487 | $ | 779 | $ | 1,769 | ||||||||||
Cost of revenues | (1,960 | ) | (1,731 | ) | (1,873 | ) | (1,940 | ) | (1,449 | ) | (415 | ) | (944 | ) | ||||||||||
Selling, general and administrative expenses | (1,297 | ) | (1,402 | ) | (1,282 | ) | (1,286 | ) | (995 | ) | (319 | ) | (677 | ) | ||||||||||
Impairment of goodwill and other intangible assets | | | (1,500 | ) | (1,019 | ) | | | | |||||||||||||||
Depreciation and amortization | (282 | ) | (868 | ) | (249 | ) | (328 | ) | (272 | ) | (72 | ) | (140 | ) | ||||||||||
Operating income (loss) | (36 | ) | (766 | ) | (1,542 | ) | (1,158 | ) | (197 | ) | (11 | ) | 18 | |||||||||||
Interest expense, net | (13 | ) | (34 | ) | (23 | ) | (5 | ) | (5 | ) | (2 | ) | (80 | ) | ||||||||||
Income (loss) before cumulative effect of accounting change | (408 | ) | (910 | ) | (1,230 | ) | (1,353 | ) | (239 | ) | (32 | ) | (104 | ) | ||||||||||
Net income (loss) | $ | (408 | ) | $ | (910 | ) | $ | (6,026 | ) | $ | (1,353 | ) | $ | (239 | ) | $ | (32 | ) | $ | (104 | ) | |||
51
Segment Data: |
||||||||||||||||||||||||
Revenues: | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Recorded Music | $ | 2,929 | $ | 2,701 | $ | 2,752 | $ | 2,839 | $ | 2,039 | $ | 630 | $ | 1,429 | ||||||||||
Music Publishing | 554 | 547 | 563 | 563 | 467 | 157 | 348 | |||||||||||||||||
Intersegment eliminations | (22 | ) | (22 | ) | (25 | ) | (26 | ) | (19 | ) | (8 | ) | (8 | ) | ||||||||||
Total revenues | $ | 3,461 | $ | 3,226 | $ | 3,290 | $ | 3,376 | $ | 2,487 | $ | 779 | $ | 1,769 | ||||||||||
Operating income (loss): | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Recorded Music | $ | (22 | ) | $ | (733 | ) | $ | (1,206 | ) | $ | (1,130 | ) | $ | (181 | ) | $ | (9 | ) | $ | 24 | ||||
Music Publishing | 47 | 23 | (273 | ) | 23 | 19 | 17 | 53 | ||||||||||||||||
Corporate expenses | (61 | ) | (56 | ) | (63 | ) | (51 | ) | (35 | ) | (19 | ) | (59 | ) | ||||||||||
Total operating income (loss) | $ | (36 | ) | $ | (766 | ) | $ | (1,542 | ) | $ | (1,158 | ) | $ | (197 | ) | $ | (11 | ) | $ | 18 | ||||
OIBDA (2): | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Recorded Music | $ | 214 | $ | 73 | $ | 173 | $ | 116 | $ | 8 | $ | 38 | $ | 120 | ||||||||||
Music Publishing | 91 | 81 | 88 | 107 | 88 | 38 | 87 | |||||||||||||||||
Corporate expenses | (59 | ) | (52 | ) | (54 | ) | (34 | ) | (21 | ) | (15 | ) | (49 | ) | ||||||||||
Total OIBDA (2) | $ | 246 | $ | 102 | $ | 207 | $ | 189 | $ | 75 | $ | 61 | $ | 158 | ||||||||||
Cash Flow Data: |
||||||||||||||||||||||||
Cash flows provided by (used in): | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Operating activities | $ | 75 | $ | (122 | ) | $ | (13 | ) | $ | 278 | $ | 257 | $ | 321 | $ | 86 | ||||||||
Investing activities | (153 | ) | (175 | ) | (365 | ) | (65 | ) | (73 | ) | 14 | (2,663 | ) | |||||||||||
Financing activities | 61 | 227 | 385 | (121 | ) | (151 | ) | (10 | ) | 2,661 | ||||||||||||||
Capital expenditures | (64 | ) | (91 | ) | (88 | ) | (51 | ) | (30 | ) | (3 | ) | (15 | ) | ||||||||||
Other Financial Data: |
||||||||||||||||||||||||
Deficiency in earnings over fixed charges (3) | $ | (365 | ) | $ | (1,066 | ) | $ | (1,570 | ) | $ | (1,317 | ) | $ | (268 | ) | $ | (15 | ) | $ | (74 | ) | |||
Balance Sheet Data (at period end): |
||||||||||||||||||||||||
Cash and equivalents | $ | 106 | $ | 34 | $ | 41 | $ | 144 | $ | 80 | $ | 471 | $ | 555 | ||||||||||
Total assets | 6,791 | 17,642 | 5,679 | 4,484 | 5,255 | 4,560 | 5,090 | |||||||||||||||||
Total debt (including current portion of long-term debt) | 102 | 115 | 101 | 120 | 115 | 132 | 1,840 | |||||||||||||||||
Shareholder's equity | 5,228 | 14,588 | 3,001 | 1,587 | 2,635 | 1,691 | 978 |
52
consolidated basis therein as a liquidity and debt compliance measure. The following is a reconciliation of operating income, which is a GAAP measure of our operating results, to OIBDA.
|
Predecessor |
Successor |
|||||||||||||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Fiscal Years Ended November 30, |
Ten Months Ended September 30, 2003 |
Three Months Ended February 29, 2004 |
Seven Months Ended September 30, 2004 |
|||||||||||||||||
|
2000 |
2001 |
2002 |
2003 |
|||||||||||||||||
|
(unaudited) |
(unaudited) |
(audited) |
(audited) |
(unaudited) |
(audited) |
(audited) |
||||||||||||||
|
(in millions) |
|
|||||||||||||||||||
Operating income (loss) | $ | (36 | ) | $ | (766 | ) | $ | (1,542 | ) | $ | (1,158 | ) | $ | (197 | ) | $ | (11 | ) | $ | 18 | |
Depreciation and amortization expense | 282 | 868 | 249 | 328 | 272 | 72 | 140 | ||||||||||||||
Impairment of goodwill and other intangible assets | | | 1,500 | 1,019 | | | | ||||||||||||||
OIBDA | $ | 246 | $ | 102 | $ | 207 | $ | 189 | $ | 75 | $ | 61 | $ | 158 | |||||||
53
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL
CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
The following discussion and analysis of our results of operations and financial condition includes periods prior to the consummation of the Transactions. Accordingly, the discussion and analysis of operating results for historical periods prior to 2004 does not reflect the significant impact that the Transactions have had on us, including significantly increased financing costs. You should read the following discussion of our results of operations and financial condition with the "Pro Forma Consolidated Condensed Financial Statements", "Selected Historical Consolidated Financial and Other Data" and the audited historical financial statements included elsewhere in this prospectus. This discussion contains forward-looking statements and involves numerous risks and uncertainties, including, but not limited to, those described in the "Risk Factors" section of this registration statement. Actual results may differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statements.
INTRODUCTION
Management's discussion and analysis of results of operations and financial condition ("MD&A") is provided as a supplement to the audited financial statements and footnotes included elsewhere herein to help provide an understanding of our financial condition, changes in financial condition and results of our operations. MD&A is organized as follows:
Use of OIBDA
We evaluate our operating performance based on several factors, including our primary financial measure of operating income (loss) before non-cash depreciation of tangible assets, non-cash amortization of intangible assets and non-cash impairment charges to reduce the carrying value of goodwill and other intangible assets (which we refer to as "OIBDA"). We consider OIBDA to be an important indicator of the operational strengths and performance of our businesses, including the ability to provide cash flows to service debt. However, a limitation of the use of OIBDA as a performance measure is that it does not reflect the periodic costs of certain capitalized tangible and
54
intangible assets used in generating revenues in our businesses. Accordingly, OIBDA should be considered in addition to, not as a substitute for, operating income (loss), net income (loss) and other measures of financial performance reported in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the U.S.
Change in Fiscal Year and Basis of Presentation
In 2004, in connection with the Acquisition, the Company changed its fiscal year-end to September 30th from November 30th. As such, financial information for 2004 is presented for the ten-month transition period ended September 30, 2004 and is separated into two pre-acquisition and post-acquisition periods as a result of the change in accounting basis that occurred relating to the Acquisition. That is, we have presented our operating results and cash flows separately for each of the pre-acquisition three-month period ended February 29, 2004 and the post-acquisition seven-month period ended September 30, 2004.
The split presentation mentioned above is required under GAAP in situations when a change in accounting basis occurs. This is because the new accounting basis requires that the historical carrying value of assets acquired and liabilities assumed be adjusted to fair value, which may yield results that are not strictly comparable on a period-to-period basis due to the different, and sometimes higher, cost basis associated with the allocation of the purchase price.
We believe that this split presentation may impede the ability of users of our financial information to understand our operating and cash flow performance. Consequently, in order to enhance an analysis of our operating results and cash flows, we have presented our operating results and cash flows on a combined basis for the full ten-month period ended September 30, 2004. This combined presentation for the ten-month period ended September 30, 2004 simply represents the mathematical addition of the pre-acquisition three-month period ended February 29, 2004 and the post-acquisition seven-month period ended September 30, 2004. It is not intended to represent what our operating results would have been had the Acquisition occurred at the beginning of the period. A reconciliation showing the mathematical combination of our operating results for such periods is included herein.
Though we believe that the combined presentation is most meaningful, it is not in conformity with GAAP. As such, we have supplemented our historical operating results, as appropriate, with pro forma financial information and have further highlighted in our discussions that follow any significant effects from the Acquisition to facilitate an understanding of a comparison of our operating results from period-to-period.
In order to enhance comparability, the combined financial information for the ten-month period ended September 30, 2004 has been supplemented by the presentation of unaudited financial information for the comparative ten-month period ended September 30, 2003. Based on how the Company's closing schedule occurred in 2003, the 2003 period consists of 43 weeks, as compared to 44 weeks contained in the ten-month period ended September 30, 2004.
OVERVIEW
Description of Business
We are one of the world's major music companies with operations in the U.S. and more than 50 countries worldwide. Effective as of March 1, 2004, the business of WMG was acquired from Time Warner by the Investors for approximately $2.6 billion. During the ten months ended September 30, 2004, we reported revenues of $2.548 billion, operating income of $7 million, OIBDA of $219 million and a net loss of $136 million.
We classify our business interests into two fundamental areas: Recorded Music and Music Publishing. A brief description of those operations is presented below.
55
Recorded Music Operations
Our Recorded Music business consists of the discovery and development of artists and the related marketing, distribution and licensing of recorded music produced by such artists. In the U.S., our operations are conducted principally through our major record labelsWarner Bros. Records Inc., The Atlantic Records Group, and Word Entertainment. Internationally, our Recorded Music operations are conducted through our Warner Music International division ("WMI") which includes various subsidiaries, affiliates and non-affiliated licensees.
Our Recorded Music operations also include a catalog division named Warner Strategic Marketing ("WSM"). WSM specializes in marketing our music catalog through compilations and reissuances of previously released music and video titles, as well as in the licensing of recordings to/from third parties for various uses, including film and television soundtracks.
Our principal Recorded Music distribution operations include Warner-Elektra-Atlantic Corporation ("WEA Corp."), which primarily markets and sells music products to retailers and wholesale distributors in the U.S.; a 90% interest in Alternative Distribution Alliance, an independent distribution company; various distribution centers and ventures operated internationally; and an 80% interest in Word Entertainment, whose distribution operations specialize in the distribution of music products in the Christian retail marketplace.
Our principal recorded music revenue sources are sales of CDs, digital downloads and other recorded music products and license fees received for the ancillary uses of our recorded music catalog.
The principal costs associated with our Recorded Music operations are as follows:
During the ten months ended September 30, 2004, our Recorded Music segment reported revenues of $2.059 billion, OIBDA of $158 million and operating income of $15 million.
Music Publishing Operations
Our Music Publishing operations include Warner/Chappell Music, Inc. and its wholly owned subsidiaries, and certain other music publishing affiliates of the Company. We own or control the rights to more than one million musical compositions, including numerous pop music hits, American standards, folk songs and motion picture and theatrical compositions. Our Music Publishing operations also include Warner Bros. Publications ("WBP"), which markets printed versions of our music throughout the world. On December 15, 2004, we entered into a definitive agreement to sell WBP to Alfred Publishing. The sale is expected to close during the first calendar quarter of 2005 and is subject to customary closing conditions. The sale is not expected to have a material effect on our future operating results and financial condition.
56
Publishing revenues are derived from four main royalty sources:
The principal costs associated with our Music Publishing operations are as follows:
During the ten months ended September 30, 2004, our Music Publishing segment reported revenues of $505 million, OIBDA of $125 million and operating income of $70 million.
Factors Affecting Results of Operations and Financial Condition
Market Factors
Over the past four years, the recorded music industry has been in a state of decline, which has adversely affected our operating results. The industry-wide decline can be attributed primarily to digital piracy. Other drivers of this decline are the overall recessionary economic environment, bankruptcies of record retailers and wholesalers, growing competition for consumer discretionary spending and retail shelf space, and the maturation of the CD format which has slowed the historical growth pattern of recorded music sales. While potential new formats for selling recorded music product have been created, including the legal downloading of digital music using the Internet and DVD-Audio formats, significant revenue streams from these new markets have yet to emerge. Accordingly, although we believe that the recorded music industry should continue to improve as evidenced by the year-over-year growth in U.S. music physical unit sales year-to-date through year-end 2004 and the positive first-half performance in physical music unit sales globally in 2004, the industry may relapse into a period of decline, as witnessed from 1999 to 2003, which would continue to negatively affect operating results. In addition, a declining recorded music industry could continue to have an adverse impact on the music publishing business. This is because our music publishing business generates a significant portion of its revenues from mechanical royalties received from the sale of music in recorded music formats such as the CD.
Due in part to the development of the new channels mentioned above and ongoing anti-piracy initiatives, we believe that the recorded music industry is positioned to improve over the coming years. However, the industry may relapse into a period of decline. In addition, there can be no assurances as to the timing or the extent of any improvement in the industry. Accordingly, we have executed a number of cost saving initiatives over the past few years in an attempt to realign our cost structure with
57
the changing economics of the industry. These initiatives have included significant headcount reductions, exiting certain leased facilities in an effort to consolidate locations and the sale of our manufacturing, packaging and physical distribution operations.
We have conducted a detailed assessment of our existing cost structure. As a result of this assessment, we have identified substantial cost-reduction opportunities in our business, the majority of which are associated with headcount reductions from the consolidation of operations and the streamlining of corporate and label overhead. By the end of September 2004, we had implemented approximately $240 million of annualized cost savings, of which approximately $90 million has been reflected in our statement of operations through September 30, 2004. We expect to complete substantially all of our restructuring efforts by May 2005 with annualized cost savings of more than $250 million. We project the one-time costs associated with our restructuring to be $225 million to $250 million, of which approximately $105 million has been paid through September 30, 2004. There are still significant risks associated with the Restructuring Plan. See "Risk Factors."
Transactions with Time Warner and its Affiliates
As previously described, prior to March 1, 2004, we were owned and operated by Time Warner. As such, in the normal course of conducting our business, we had various commercial and financing arrangements with Time Warner and its affiliates. In particular, we purchased manufacturing packaging and physical distribution services from affiliates of Time Warner, and Time Warner funded our operating and capital requirements. See Note 19 to our audited financial statements included elsewhere herein for a summary of the principal transactions between us and Time Warner and its affiliates.
Time Warner sold its CD and DVD manufacturing, packaging and physical distribution operations to Cinram at the end of October 2003. Prior to the sale, these operations were under the control of Time Warner and our management. As such, pricing for such services was not negotiated on an arm's-length basis and did not reflect market rates. As part of the sale, Time Warner and we entered into long-term arrangements with Cinram. Under these arrangements, Cinram will provide manufacturing, packaging and physical distribution services for our products in the U.S. and Europe at favorable, market- based rates that were negotiated on an arm's-length basis.
With respect to the financing arrangements with Time Warner, all cash received or paid by us was included in, or funded by, clearing accounts or shared international cash pools within Time Warner's centralized cash management system. Some of those arrangements were interest-bearing and others were not. Accordingly, historical net interest expense is not representative of the amounts incurred by us under our new leveraged capital structure created in connection with the Acquisition.
58
Ten Months Ended September 30, 2004 Compared to Ten Months Ended September 30, 2003
The following table summarizes our historical results of operations. The financial data for the seven months ended September 30, 2004 and the three months ended February 29, 2004 have been derived from our audited financial statements included elsewhere herein. The financial data for the ten months ended September 30, 2003 are unaudited and are derived from the audited financial statements included elsewhere herein. See "Change in Fiscal Year and Basis of Presentation" presented earlier herein for a discussion of the use of financial information for the combined ten-month period ended September 30, 2004.
|
Successor |
Predecessor |
Combined |
Predecessor |
||||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Seven Months Ended |
Three Months Ended |
Ten Months Ended |
Ten Months Ended |
||||||||||
|
September 30, 2004 |
February 29, 2004 |
September 30, 2004 |
September 30, 2003 |
||||||||||
|
(audited) |
(audited) |
(unaudited)(1) |
(unaudited) |
||||||||||
|
(in millions) |
|||||||||||||
Revenues | $ | 1,769 | $ | 779 | $ | 2,548 | $ | 2,487 | ||||||
Costs and expenses: | ||||||||||||||
Cost of revenues(1) | (944 | ) | (415 | ) | (1,359 | ) | (1,449 | ) | ||||||
Selling, general and administrative expenses(1) | (677 | ) | (319 | ) | (996 | ) | (995 | ) | ||||||
Amortization of intangible assets | (104 | ) | (56 | ) | (160 | ) | (201 | ) | ||||||
Loss on sale of physical distribution assets | | | | (12 | ) | |||||||||
Restructuring (costs) income, net | (26 | ) | | (26 | ) | (27 | ) | |||||||
Total costs and expenses | (1,751 | ) | (790 | ) | (2,541 | ) | (2,684 | ) | ||||||
Operating income (loss) | 18 | (11 | ) | 7 | (197 | ) | ||||||||
Interest expense net | (80 | ) | (2 | ) | (82 | ) | (5 | ) | ||||||
Net investment-related gains (losses) | | | | (17 | ) | |||||||||
Equity in the losses of equity-method investees, net | (2 | ) | (2 | ) | (4 | ) | (32 | ) | ||||||
Deal related transaction and other costs | | | | (7 | ) | |||||||||
Loss on repayment of bridge loan | (6 | ) | | (6 | ) | | ||||||||
Other expense net | (4 | ) | | (4 | ) | (10 | ) | |||||||
Loss before income taxes | (74 | ) | (15 | ) | (89 | ) | (268 | ) | ||||||
Income tax benefit (expense) | (30 | ) | (17 | ) | (47 | ) | 29 | |||||||
Net loss | $ | (104 | ) | $ | (32 | ) | $ | (136 | ) | $ | (239 | ) | ||
Consolidated Pro Forma Results
As previously discussed, the above table presents our historical operating results separately for each of the pre-acquisition, three-month period ended February 29, 2004 and the post-acquisition, seven-month period ended September 30, 2004. As such, it does not reflect all of the significant effects of the Transactions on our operating results for the entire combined ten-month period ended
59
September 30, 2004. Had the Transactions occurred on December 1, 2003, our pro forma results for the ten months ended September 30, 2004 would have been as follows:
|
Pro Forma Ten Months Ended September 30, 2004 |
|||
---|---|---|---|---|
Revenue | $ | 2,548 | ||
OIBDA | 217 | |||
Depreciation and amortization | (201 | ) | ||
Operating income | 16 | |||
Interest expense, net | (112 | ) | ||
Net income (loss) | (149 | ) |
A discussion of our consolidated historical results follows.
Consolidated Historical Results
Revenues
Our revenues increased to $2.548 billion for the ten months ended September 30, 2004, compared to $2.487 billion for the ten months ended September 30, 2003. The increase was largely driven by a $20 million increase in Recorded Music revenues and a $38 million increase in Music Publishing revenues.
Recorded Music revenues benefited principally from a $110 million favorable impact of foreign currency exchange rates, and an approximate $30 million increase in revenues from digital sales of Recorded Music product relating to the development and increased consumer usage of legal, online distribution channels for the music industry. These benefits more than offset a decline in physical worldwide music sales due to the continuing industry-wide impact of piracy and lower sales volume associated with a fewer number of key commercial releases that sold in excess of one million units. Substantially all of the decline in physical worldwide music sales resulted from lower unit sales volume.
Music Publishing revenues benefited principally from a $33 million favorable impact of foreign currency exchange rates and an aggregate $15 million increase in mechanical, performance and synchronization royalties. These benefits more than offset a $10 million decline in revenues from the sale of print-related products partially relating to the closure of certain of our smaller print operations in connection with our cost-savings initiatives.
See "Business Segment Results" presented hereinafter for a discussion of revenues by business segment.
Cost of revenues
Our cost of revenues decreased to $1.359 billion for the ten months ended September 30, 2004, compared to $1.449 billion for the ten months ended September 30, 2003. Expressed as a percentage of revenues, cost of revenues was approximately 53% for the ten months ended September 30, 2004, compared to 58% for the ten months ended September 30, 2003. The decrease in cost of revenues principally related to approximately $98 million of lower manufacturing costs due, in part, to lower pricing under the new Cinram agreements that went into effect in October 2003, approximately $88 million of lower artist and repertoire-related costs associated with our lower sales volume and cost savings associated with our restructuring plan that was implemented in 2004 in connection with the Acquisition. These cost reductions were partially offset by an approximate $90 million unfavorable impact of foreign currency exchange rates.
Selling, general and administrative expenses
Our selling, general and administrative expenses were $996 million for the ten months ended September 30, 2004, compared to $995 million for the ten months ended September 30, 2003. Expressed as a percentage of revenues, selling, general and administrative expenses were approximately
60
39% for the ten months ended September 30, 2004, compared with 40% for the ten months ended September 30, 2003. Selling, general and administrative expenses increased as a result of an approximate $50 million unfavorable impact of foreign currency exchange rates, approximately $6 million of management advisory fees paid to the Investors and $43 million of higher corporate expenses as discussed further below, including higher costs associated with operating as an independent company. These increases were offset by decreases due to lower marketing and divisional overhead costs associated with our cost-savings initiatives.
Restructuring (costs) income, net
We recognized $26 million of restructuring-related costs in the ten months ended September 30, 2004, compared to $27 million of restructuring-related costs in the ten months ended September 30, 2003. The restructuring costs in 2004 principally related to costs associated with the implementation of a cost-savings incentive compensation plan designed to incentivize management to reduce operating costs. The restructuring costs in 2003 principally related to reductions in worldwide headcount, costs to exit certain leased facilities, and costs associated with the restructuring of our U.S. and Canadian distribution operations.
Reconciliation of Consolidated Historical OIBDA to Operating Loss and Net Loss
As previously described, we use OIBDA as our primary measure of financial performance. The following table reconciles OIBDA to operating loss and further provides the components from operating loss to net loss for purposes of the discussion that follows:
|
Successor |
Predecessor |
Combined |
Predecessor |
|||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Seven Months Ended |
Three Months Ended |
Ten Months Ended |
Ten Months Ended |
|||||||||
|
September 30, 2004 |
February 29, 2004 |
September 30, 2004 |
September 30, 2003 |
|||||||||
|
(audited) |
(audited) |
(unaudited) |
(unaudited) |
|||||||||
OIBDA | $ | 158 | $ | 61 | $ | 219 | $ | 75 | |||||
Depreciation expense | (36 | ) | (16 | ) | (52 | ) | (71 | ) | |||||
Amortization expense | (104 | ) | (56 | ) | (160 | ) | (201 | ) | |||||
Operating (loss) income | 18 | (11 | ) | 7 | (197 | ) | |||||||
Interest expense, net | (80 | ) | (2 | ) | (82 | ) | (5 | ) | |||||
Net investment-related losses | | | | (17 | ) | ||||||||
Equity in the losses of equity-method investees, net | (2 | ) | (2 | ) | (4 | ) | (32 | ) | |||||
Deal-related transaction and other costs | | | | (7 | ) | ||||||||
Loss on repayment of bridge loan | (6 | ) | | (6 | ) | | |||||||
Other expense, net | (4 | ) | | (4 | ) | (10 | ) | ||||||
Loss before income taxes | (74 | ) | (15 | ) | (89 | ) | (268 | ) | |||||
Income tax benefit (expense) | (30 | ) | (17 | ) | (47 | ) | 29 | ||||||
Net loss | $ | (104 | ) | $ | (32 | ) | $ | (136 | ) | $ | (239 | ) | |
OIBDA
Our OIBDA increased to $219 million for the ten months ended September 30, 2004, compared to $75 million for the ten months ended September 30, 2003. The increase related to a $150 million increase in Recorded Music OIBDA and a $37 million increase in Music Publishing OIBDA, offset in part by a $43 million increase in Corporate expenses.
Recorded Music OIBDA benefited principally from lower marketing and overhead costs associated with our cost savings initiatives, approximately $94 million of lower manufacturing costs due, in part, to lower pricing under the new Cinram agreements that went into effect in October 2003, a $1 million
61
favorable impact from foreign currency exchange rates and the absence of a $12 million loss on the sale of physical distribution assets recognized in 2003. These benefits more than offset the loss of margin contributions related to lower worldwide recorded music sales.
Music Publishing OIBDA benefited principally from lower overhead costs associated with our cost savings initiatives, approximately $18 million of lower advance write-offs and a $4 million favorable impact from foreign currency exchange rates.
Corporate expenses increased due to higher costs associated with operating as an independent company and a change in the allocation of corporate-related costs. As discussed in Note 19 to the audited financial statements, $47 million of corporate-related costs were allocated in 2003 to Time Warner's former CD and DVD manufacturing and printing operations because such operations were managed by Old WMG. Such operations were sold by Time Warner in October 2003, and accordingly, such costs were no longer allocable. The incrementally higher level of costs was partially offset by lower overhead costs associated with our cost-savings initiatives.
See "Business Segment Results" presented hereinafter for a discussion of OIBDA by business segment.
Depreciation expense
Our depreciation expense decreased to $52 million for the ten months ended September 30, 2004, compared to $71 million for the ten months ended September 30, 2003. The decrease principally related to lower capital spending requirements and lower depreciation of software development costs.
Amortization expense
Our amortization expense decreased to $160 million for the ten months ended September 30, 2004, compared to $201 million for the ten months ended September 30, 2003. The decrease related to the new basis of accounting recorded in connection with the Acquisition, which resulted in a lower revaluation of the historical cost bases of our identifiable intangible assets.
Operating income (loss)
Our operating income increased to $7 million for the ten months ended September 30, 2004, compared to an operating loss of $197 million for the ten months ended September 30, 2003. The improvement in operating income related to a $144 million increase in OIBDA, a $19 million decrease in depreciation expense, and a $41 million decrease in amortization expense, all as previously described above. See "Business Segment Results" presented hereinafter for a discussion of operating income (loss) by business segment.
Interest expense, net
Our net interest expense increased to $82 million for the ten months ended September 30, 2004, compared to $5 million for the ten months ended September 30, 2003. The increase primarily related to the approximately $1.8 billion of debt issued in 2004 in connection with the capitalization of the Company.
Net investment-related gains (losses)
We did not recognize any investment-related gains (losses) for the ten months ended September 30, 2004. However, for the ten months ended September 30, 2003, we recognized $17 million of net investment-related losses. These losses principally related to reductions in the carrying values of certain equity-method investments.
Equity in the losses of equity-method investees, net
Our equity in the losses of equity-method investees was $4 million for the ten months ended September 30, 2004, compared to $32 million in the ten months ended September 30, 2003. The lower
62
losses partially related to the fact that certain of our former loss-generating investees, such as our former interest in MusicNet, were retained by Time Warner and were not part of the assets acquired.
Deal-related transaction costs
We did not recognize any deal-related transaction costs for the ten months ended September 30, 2004. However, for the ten months ended September 30, 2003, we recognized $7 million of deal-related transaction costs. These costs primarily related to transaction costs associated with the the prior pursuit of other strategic ventures or dispositions of Old WMG's businesses in 2003 by Time Warner that did not occur.
Loss on repayment of bridge loan
We recognized a $6 million loss during the ten months ended September 30, 2004 to write off the carrying value of the unamortized debt issuance costs related to our bridge loan which we repaid in April 2004.
Other expense, net
We recognized other expense, net, of $4 million for the ten months ended September 30, 2004, compared to other expense, net, of $10 million for the ten months ended September 30, 2003. The $4 million of costs in 2004 relate to unfavorable foreign currency exchange rate movements associated with intercompany receivables and payables that are not of a long-term investment nature, and as such, are required to be reported in the statement of operations in accordance with GAAP. The $10 million of costs in 2003 primarily related to losses on foreign currency exchange contracts that were used by Time Warner to hedge exposures to changes in foreign currency exchange rates. As discussed in Note 21 to the audited financial statements included elsewhere herein, we are in the process of evaluating our hedging practices and no significant foreign exchange contracts were entered into in 2004.
Income tax benefit (expense)
We provided income tax expense of $47 million for the ten months ended September 30, 2004, compared to an income tax benefit of $29 million for the ten months ended September 30, 2003. The income tax provisions and benefits are not entirely comparable due to the changes in our tax profile relating to the closing of the Acquisition. In particular, prior to the closing of the Acquisition, we were a member of the Time Warner consolidated tax return and were able to recognize U.S.-based deferred tax benefits on domestic-source net operating losses incurred. However, upon the closing of the Acquisition, our membership in the Time Warner consolidated tax group terminated along with our ability to recognize similar, U.S.-based deferred tax benefits. Accordingly, the income tax expense in 2004 primarily related to the tax provisions on foreign-source income. There was no offsetting income tax benefit on domestic-source losses recognized in 2004 due to the uncertainty of realization of those deferred tax assets.
Net loss
We recognized a net loss of $136 million for the ten months ended September 30, 2004, compared to a net loss of $239 million for the ten months ended September 30, 2003. As described more fully above, the improvement in 2004 principally related to a $204 million increase in operating income (including $60 million of lower depreciation and amortization expense) and $45 million of lower investment-related losses. These benefits were offset, in part, by $77 million of higher net interest costs and an $76 million higher income tax provision associated with the improvement in pretax losses.
63
Business Segment Results
Revenue, OIBDA and operating income (loss) by business segment are as follows:
|
Successor |
Predecessor |
Combined |
Predecessor |
||||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Seven Months Ended |
Three Months Ended |
Ten Months Ended |
Ten Months Ended |
||||||||||
|
September 30, 2004 |
February 29, 2004 |
September 30, 2004 |
September 30, 2003 |
||||||||||
|
(audited) |
(audited) |
(unaudited) |
(unaudited) |
||||||||||
Recorded Music | ||||||||||||||
Revenue | $ | 1,429 | $ | 630 | $ | 2,059 | $ | 2,039 | ||||||
OIBDA(1) | 120 | 38 | 158 | 8 | ||||||||||
Operating income (loss)(1) | 24 | (9 | ) | 15 | (181 | ) | ||||||||
Music Publishing | ||||||||||||||
Revenue | 348 | 157 | 505 | 467 | ||||||||||
OIBDA(1) | 87 | 38 | 125 | 88 | ||||||||||
Operating income (loss)(1) | 53 | 17 | 70 | 19 | ||||||||||
Corporate and Revenue Eliminations | ||||||||||||||
Revenue eliminations | (8 | ) | (8 | ) | (16 | ) | (19 | ) | ||||||
OIBDA(1) | (49 | ) | (15 | ) | (64 | ) | (21 | ) | ||||||
Operating income (loss)(1) | (59 | ) | (19 | ) | (78 | ) | (35 | ) | ||||||
Total | ||||||||||||||
Revenue | 1,769 | 779 | 2,548 | 2,487 | ||||||||||
OIBDA(1) | 158 | 61 | 219 | 75 | ||||||||||
Operating income (loss)(1) | 18 | (11 | ) | 7 | (197 | ) |
Recorded Music
Recorded Music revenues increased to $2.059 billion for the ten months ended September 30, 2004, compared to $2.039 billion for the ten months ended September 30, 2003. Revenues benefited principally from a $110 million favorable impact of foreign currency exchange rates and an approximate $30 million increase in revenues from digital sales of recorded music product relating to the development and increased consumer usage of legal, online distribution channels for the music industry. These benefits more than offset a decline in physical worldwide music sales due to the continuing industry-wide impact of piracy and lower sales volume associated with a fewer number of key commercial releases that sold in excess of one million units. Substantially all of the decline in physical worldwide music sales resulted from lower unit sales volume.
Recorded Music OIBDA increased to $158 million for the ten months ended September 30, 2004, compared to $8 million for the ten months ended September 30, 2003. The $150 million increase in OIBDA principally related to lower marketing and overhead costs associated with our cost savings initiatives, approximately $94 million of lower manufacturing costs due, in part, to lower pricing under the new Cinram agreements that went into effect in October 2003, a $1 million favorable impact from foreign currency exchange rates and the absence of $12 million loss on the sale of physical distribution assets recognized in 2003. These benefits more than offset the loss of margin contributions related to lower worldwide recorded music sales.
64
Recorded Music operating income improved to $15 million for the ten months ended September 30, 2004, compared to a loss of $181 million for the ten months ended September 30, 2003. Recorded Music operating loss included the following components:
|
Successor |
Predecessor |
Combined |
Predecessor |
|||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Seven Months Ended |
Three Months Ended |
Ten Months Ended |
Ten Months Ended |
|||||||||
|
September 30, 2004 |
February 29, 2004 |
September 30, 2004 |
September 30, 2003 |
|||||||||
|
(audited) |
(audited) |
(unaudited) |
(unaudited) |
|||||||||
OIBDA | $ | 120 | $ | 38 | $ | 158 | $ | 8 | |||||
Depreciation and amortization | (96 | ) | (47 | ) | (143 | ) | (189 | ) | |||||
Operating income (loss) | $ | 24 | $ | (9 | ) | $ | 15 | $ | (181 | ) | |||
The $196 million improvement in operating loss primarily related to the $150 million improvement in OIBDA discussed above and a $46 million decrease in depreciation and amortization expense. The decrease in depreciation and amortization expense principally related to $29 million of lower amortization resulting from a lower revaluation of the historical cost bases of our identifiable intangible assets in connection with the allocation of purchase price as part of the Acquisition. In addition, depreciation expense declined by $17 million principally relating to lower capital spending requirements and lower depreciation of software development costs.
Music Publishing
Music Publishing revenues increased to $505 million for the ten months ended September 30, 2004, compared to $467 million for the ten months ended September 30, 2003. Revenues benefited principally from a $33 million favorable impact of foreign currency exchange rates, and an aggregate $15 million increase in mechanical, performance and synchronization royalties. These benefits more than offset a $10 million decline in revenues from the sale of print-related products partially relating to the closure of certain of our smaller print operations in connection with our cost-savings initiatives.
The aggregate $15 million increase in royalties noted above consisted of a $4 million increase in mechanical royalties, a $6 million increase in synchronization royalties and a $5 million increase in performance royalties. Mechanical and synchronization royalties increased as a result of our breadth and number of top-performing songs, as well as an increase in sales in newer formats, such as music DVDs and mobile phone ring tones. Performance revenues increased due in large part to an increase in media channels.
Music Publishing OIBDA increased to $125 million for the ten months ended September 30, 2004, compared to $88 million for the ten months ended September 30, 2003. The $37 million increase in OIBDA principally related to lower overhead costs associated with our cost-saving initiatives, approximately $18 million of lower advance write-offs and a $4 million favorable impact from foreign currency exchange rates.
Music Publishing operating income increased to $70 million in the ten months ended September 30, 2004, compared to $19 million in the ten months ended September 30, 2003. Music Publishing operating income includes the following components:
|
Successor |
Predecessor |
Combined |
Predecessor |
|||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Seven Months Ended |
Three Months Ended |
Ten Months Ended |
Ten Months Ended |
|||||||||
|
September 30, 2004 |
February 29, 2004 |
September 30, 2004 |
September 30, 2003 |
|||||||||
|
(audited) |
(audited) |
(unaudited) |
(unaudited) |
|||||||||
OIBDA | $ | 87 | $ | 38 | $ | 125 | $ | 88 | |||||
Depreciation and amortization | (34 | ) | (21 | ) | (55 | ) | (69 | ) | |||||
Operating income | $ | 53 | $ | 17 | $ | 70 | $ | 19 | |||||
65
The $51 million increase in operating income primarily related to a $14 million decrease in depreciation and amortization expense, and the $37 million increase in OIBDA discussed above. The decrease in depreciation and amortization expense principally related to $12 million of lower amortization expense resulting from a lower revaluation of the historical cost bases of our identifiable intangible assets in connection with the allocation of purchase price as part of the Acquisition.
Corporate expenses
Corporate expenses before depreciation and amortization expense increased to $64 million for the ten months ended September 30, 2004, compared to $21 million for the ten months ended September 30, 2003. Corporate expenses increased due to higher costs associated with operating as an independent company and a change in the allocation of corporate-related costs. As discussed in Note 19 to the audited financial statements, $47 million of corporate-related costs were allocated in 2003 to Time Warner's former CD and DVD manufacturing and printing operations because such operations were managed by Old WMG. Such operations were sold by Time Warner in October 2003, and accordingly, such costs were no longer allocable. The incrementally higher level of costs was partially offset by lower overhead costs associated with our cost-savings initiatives.
Corporate depreciation and amortization expense was $14 million in each period.
Year Ended November 30, 2003 Compared to Year Ended November 30, 2002
The following table summarizes our historical results of operations for the years ended November 30, 2003 and 2002. The financial data for the above periods have been derived from our financial statements included elsewhere herein.
|
Years Ended November 30, |
|||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
2003 |
2002 |
||||||
|
(in millions) |
|||||||
Revenues | $ | 3,376 | $ | 3,290 | ||||
Costs and expenses: | ||||||||
Cost of revenues(1) | (1,940 | ) | (1,873 | ) | ||||
Selling, general and administrative expenses(1) | (1,286 | ) | (1,282 | ) | ||||
Impairment of goodwill and other intangible assets | (1,019 | ) | (1,500 | ) | ||||
Amortization of intangible assets | (242 | ) | (182 | ) | ||||
Loss on sale of physical distribution assets | (12 | ) | | |||||
Restructuring (costs) income, net | (35 | ) | 5 | |||||
Total costs and expenses | (4,534 | ) | (4,832 | ) | ||||
Operating loss | (1,158 | ) | (1,542 | ) | ||||
Interest expense, net | (5 | ) | (23 | ) | ||||
Net investment-related gains (losses) | (26 | ) | 42 | |||||
Equity in the losses of equity-method investees, net | (41 | ) | (42 | ) | ||||
Deal-related transaction and other costs | (70 | ) | | |||||
Other expense, net | (17 | ) | (5 | ) | ||||
Loss before income taxes and cumulative effect of accounting change | (1,317 | ) | (1,570 | ) | ||||
Income tax benefit (expense) | (36 | ) | 340 | |||||
Loss before cumulative effect of accounting change | (1,353 | ) | (1,230 | ) | ||||
Cumulative effect of accounting change | | (4,796 | ) | |||||
Net loss | $ | (1,353 | ) | $ | (6,026 | ) | ||
66
Revenues
Our revenues increased to $3.376 billion for the year ended November 30, 2003, compared to $3.290 billion for the year ended November 30, 2002. The increase was driven by an $87 million increase in Recorded Music revenues, whereas our Music Publishing revenues were flat.
Recorded Music revenues benefited principally from a $178 million favorable impact of foreign currency exchange rates. This benefit more than offset a decline in physical worldwide music sales largely due to the industry-wide impact of piracy. Substantially all of the decline in physical worldwide music sales resulted from lower unit sales volume.
Music Publishing revenues also benefited principally from a $62 million favorable impact of foreign currency exchange rates, an $11 million increase in performance royalties and a $7 million increase in synchronization royalties, which offset a $66 million decline in mechanical revenues relating largely to lower mechanical royalties received from the decline in industry-wide recorded music product sales. See "Business Segment Results" presented hereinafter for a discussion of revenues by business segment.
Cost of revenues
Our cost of revenues increased to $1.940 billion for the year ended November 30, 2003, compared to $1.873 billion for the year ended November 30, 2002. Expressed as a percentage of revenues, cost of revenues were approximately 57% in both years. The increase in cost of revenues related principally to an $88 million increase in manufacturing costs, offset by an approximate $20 million decrease in licensing and artist and repertoire-related costs.
Selling, general and administrative expenses
Our selling, general and administrative expenses increased marginally to $1.286 billion for the year ended November 30, 2003, compared to $1.282 billion for the year ended November 30, 2002. Expressed as a percentage of revenues, selling, general and administrative expenses were approximately 38% in 2003, compared to 39% in 2002. The marginal increase in selling, general and administrative expenses related principally to a $23 million increase in distribution costs, which offset lower marketing and overhead costs associated with our cost savings initiatives.
Restructuring (costs) income, net
We recognized $35 million of restructuring-related costs for the year ended November 30, 2003, compared to $5 million of income for the year ended November 30, 2002. The restructuring costs in 2003 principally related to reductions in worldwide headcount, costs to exit certain leased facilities and costs associated with the restructuring of our U.S. and Canadian distribution operations. The income recognized in 2002 related to the reversal of a $12 million restructuring liability recognized in a prior period due primarily to the planned action not ultimately occurring. This amount was partially offset by approximately $7 million of restructuring charges recognized in 2002 relating principally to reductions in worldwide headcount and other restructuring initiatives.
67
Reconciliation of Combined Historical OIBDA to Operating Loss and Net Loss
As previously described, we use OIBDA as our primary measure of financial performance. The following table reconciles OIBDA to operating loss and further provides the components from operating loss to net loss for purposes of the discussion that follows:
|
Years Ended November 30, |
||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
2003 |
2002 |
|||||
|
(in millions) |
||||||
OIBDA | $ | 189 | $ | 207 | |||
Depreciation expense | (86 | ) | (67 | ) | |||
Amortization expense | (242 | ) | (182 | ) | |||
Impairment of goodwill and other intangible assets | (1,019 | ) | (1,500 | ) | |||
Operating loss | (1,158 | ) | (1,542 | ) | |||
Interest income (expense), net | (5 | ) | (23 | ) | |||
Net investment-related gains (losses) | (26 | ) | 42 | ||||
Equity in the losses of equity-method investees, net | (41 | ) | (42 | ) | |||
Deal-related transaction and other costs | (70 | ) | | ||||
Other income (expense), net | (17 | ) | (5 | ) | |||
Loss before income taxes and cumulative effect of accounting change | (1,317 | ) | (1,570 | ) | |||
Income tax benefit (expense) | (36 | ) | 340 | ||||
Loss before cumulative effect of accounting change | (1,353 | ) | (1,230 | ) | |||
Cumulative effect of accounting change | | (4,796 | ) | ||||
Net loss | $ | (1,353 | ) | $ | (6,026 | ) | |
OIBDA
Our OIBDA decreased to $189 million for the year ended November 30, 2003, compared to $207 million for the year ended November 30, 2002. The decrease related to a $57 million decline in Recorded Music OIBDA, which more than offset a $19 million increase in Music Publishing OIBDA and $20 million of lower corporate expenses. The decline in Recorded Music OIBDA substantially related to $48 million of higher costs recognized in 2003 relating to restructuring initiatives and the one-time loss on the sale of physical distribution assets. The increase in Music Publishing OIBDA principally related to approximately $25 million of lower advance write-offs, which more than offset $3 million of restructuring charges recognized in 2003. The improvement in corporate expenses principally related to our cost savings initiatives. See "Business Segment Results" presented hereinafter for a discussion of OIBDA by business segment.
Depreciation expense
Our depreciation expense increased to $86 million for the year ended November 30, 2003, compared to $67 million for the year ended November 30, 2002. The increase principally related to an increase in depreciation of leasehold improvements associated with the consolidation of certain office space into a new location and higher depreciation of software development costs.
Amortization expense
Our amortization expense increased to $242 million for the year ended November 30, 2003, compared to $182 million for the year ended November 30, 2002. The increase related to a reduction in the amortization periods for both our recorded music catalog and music publishing copyrights from 20 years to 15 years. This change was implemented at the beginning of 2003 when we determined that
68
the estimated useful lives of such intangible assets were shorter than originally anticipated due to the industry-wide effects of music piracy.
Impairment of goodwill and other intangible assets
We recognized impairment charges to reduce the carrying value of goodwill and other intangible assets of $1.019 billion for the year ended November 30, 2003 and $1.500 billion for the year ended November 30, 2002. Such amounts primarily reflected declines in the valuation of music-related businesses due largely to the industry-wide effects of piracy.
Operating loss
Our operating loss decreased to $1.158 billion for the year ended November 30, 2003, compared to $1.542 billion for the year ended November 30, 2002. The improvement principally related to a $481 million lower impairment charge recognized in 2003 to reduce the carrying value of our goodwill and other intangible assets. This improvement was partially offset by an $18 million decrease in OIBDA, a $19 million increase in depreciation expense and a $60 million increase in amortization expense, as previously described above. See "Business Segment Results" presented hereinafter for a discussion of operating income (loss) by business segment.
Interest expense, net
Our net interest expense decreased to $5 million for the year ended November 30, 2003, compared to $23 million for the year ended November 30, 2002. The decrease principally related to the repayment of approximately $100 million of third-party debt in early 2003 and a $15 million decline in net interest expense payable to Time Warner in 2003.
Net investment-related gains (losses)
We recognized investment-related losses of $26 million for the year ended November 30, 2003, compared to $42 million of gains for the year ended November 30, 2002. The 2003 losses principally related to reductions in the carrying values of certain equity-method investments. In 2002, we recognized a $60 million gain on the sale of 85% of our equity-method investment in Columbia House, which more than offset $18 million of impairment losses to reduce the carrying values of certain equity-method investments.
Equity in the losses of equity-method investees, net
Our equity in the losses of equity-method investees was $41 million for the year ended November 30, 2003, compared to $42 million for the year ended November 30, 2002. Although the mix of equity-method investees changed from period to period, there was no significant fluctuation in the aggregate amount of equity losses.
Deal-related transaction and other costs
During the year ended November 30, 2003, in connection with the Acquisition and Time Warner's prior pursuit of other strategic ventures or dispositions, including our businesses, that did not occur, we incurred $70 million of costs. These costs consisted of (i) $30 million of transaction costs, primarily relating to legal, accounting and investment-banking fees, (ii) a $15 million loss in connection with the probable pension curtailment for employees covered under Time Warner's U.S. pension plans that ultimately occurred upon the closing of the Acquisition and (iii) a $25 million loss relating to certain executive contractual obligations that were probable to occur and ultimately triggered upon the closing of the Acquisition.
69
Other expense, net
We recognized other expense, net, of $17 million for the year ended November 30, 2003, compared to expense of $5 million for the year ended November 30, 2002. These amounts primarily related to losses on foreign currency exchange contracts allocated to us by Time Warner in each period. Foreign currency exchange contracts were used by Time Warner and us to hedge the exposure to changes in foreign currency rates. The increased loss in 2003 relates, in part, to the early termination of foreign currency exchange contracts in the fourth quarter of 2003 in anticipation of the closing of the Acquisition.
Income tax benefit (expense)
We provided income tax expense of $36 million for the year ended November 30, 2003, compared to an income tax benefit of $340 million for the year ended November 30, 2002. The increase in income tax expense primarily related to the write-off in 2003 of a $423 million deferred tax asset for net operating losses incurred by us while we were a member of the Time Warner consolidated tax return. These net operating losses were only available to us while we remained within the tax consolidation of Time Warner. Consequently, in anticipation of the closing of the Acquisition, which terminated our membership in the Time Warner consolidated tax group, we wrote off the deferred tax asset in November 2003.
Loss before cumulative effect of accounting change
We recognized a loss before the cumulative affect of an accounting change of $1.353 billion for the year ended November 30, 2003, compared to $1.230 billion for the year ended November 30, 2002. As described more fully above, the higher loss in 2003 principally related to $67 million of higher investment-related losses, $70 million of deal-related transaction and other costs recognized in 2003 and $376 million of higher income tax expense, which more than offset the $384 million improvement in operating loss relating, in part, to the lower impairment charge to reduce the carrying value of goodwill and other intangible assets.
Cumulative effect of accounting change
We recognized a non-cash charge of $4.796 billion for the year ended November 30, 2002 to reduce the carrying value of goodwill in connection with the initial adoption of Financial Accounting Standards Board Statement No. 142, "Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets" ("FAS 142"). The amount of the impairment charge primarily reflected the decline in Time Warner stock price since the AOLTime Warner merger was announced and valued for accounting purposes in January 2000, as well as declines in the valuation of music-related businesses due largely to the negative industry-wide effects of piracy.
Net loss
We recognized a net loss of $1.353 billion for the year ended November 30, 2003, compared to a net loss of $6.026 billion for the year ended November 30, 2002. As described more fully above, the lower loss in 2003 principally related to the absence of a $4.796 billion impairment charge recognized in 2002 and reflected as a cumulative effect of an accounting change in connection with the initial adoption of FAS 142.
70
Business Segment Results
Revenue, OIBDA and operating income (loss) by business segment are as follows:
|
Years Ended November 30, |
||||||||||||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Revenues |
OIBDA (1) |
Operating Income (Loss) (1)(2) |
||||||||||||||||
|
2003 |
2002 |
2003 |
2002 |
2003 |
2002 |
|||||||||||||
|
(in millions) |
||||||||||||||||||
Recorded Music | $ | 2,839 | $ | 2,752 | $ | 116 | $ | 173 | $ | (1,130 | ) | $ | (1,206 | ) | |||||
Music Publishing |
563 |
563 |
107 |
88 |
23 |
(273 |
) |
||||||||||||
Corporate expenses | | | (34 | ) | (54 | ) | (51 | ) | (63 | ) | |||||||||
Intersegment elimination | (26 | ) | (25 | ) | | | | | |||||||||||
Total | $ | 3,376 | $ | 3,290 | $ | 189 | $ | 207 | $ | (1,158 | ) | $ | (1,542 | ) | |||||
Recorded Music
Recorded Music revenues increased to $2.839 billion for the year ended November 30, 2003, compared to $2.752 billion for the year ended November 30, 2002. Revenues benefited principally from a $178 million favorable impact of foreign currency exchange rates, which more than offset a decline in physical worldwide music sales due to the industry-wide impact of piracy. Substantially all of the decline in physical worldwide music sales resulted from lower unit sales volume.
Recorded Music OIBDA decreased to $116 million for the year ended November 30, 2003, compared to $173 million in 2002. The $57 million decrease in OIBDA was essentially due to the inclusion of $48 million of additional costs in 2003 relating to restructuring initiatives and the loss on the sale of physical distribution assets. Excluding such items, OIBDA would have been $159 million for the year ended November 30, 2003, compared to $168 million for the year ended November 30, 2002. The marginal decline in OIBDA, excluding restructuring costs and the loss on the sale of physical distribution assets, was due to the loss of margin on lower worldwide music sales, offset in part by a $29 million favorable impact of foreign currency exchange rates and cost savings relating to our restructuring initiatives.
71
Recorded Music operating loss improved to $1.130 billion for the year ended November 30, 2003, compared to $1.206 billion for the year ended November 30, 2002. Recorded Music operating loss included the following components:
|
Years Ended November 30, |
||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
2003 |
2002 |
|||||
|
(in millions) |
||||||
OIBDA | $ | 116 | $ | 173 | |||
Depreciation and amortization | (227 | ) | (176 | ) | |||
Impairment of goodwill and other intangible assets | (1,019 | ) | (1,203 | ) | |||
Operating loss | $ | (1,130 | ) | $ | (1,206 | ) | |
The $76 million improvement in operating loss primarily related to a $184 million lower impairment charge to reduce the carrying value of goodwill and intangible assets, offset in part by the $57 million reduction in OIBDA discussed above and a $51 million increase in depreciation and amortization expense. The increase in depreciation and amortization expense principally related to an increase in amortization expense associated with a reduction in the amortization period for recorded music catalog from 20 years to 15 years, which was implemented at the beginning of 2003.
Music Publishing
Music Publishing revenues were flat at $563 million for each of the years ended November 30, 2003 and 2002. Revenues benefited principally from a $62 million favorable impact of foreign currency exchange rates, an $11 million increase to performance royalties and a $7 million increase in synchronization royalties, which offset a $9 million decline in print revenues relating largely to both the sale of the international print operations and lower domestic print sales and $66 million less in mechanical royalties received from the sale of recorded music product.
Mechanical royalties decreased as a result of the industry-wide decline in physical recorded music product. Synchronization royalties increased as a result of improvements in the overall advertising market and the related placement of our copyrights in advertising campaigns. Performance revenues increased due in large part to an increase in media channels.
Music Publishing OIBDA increased to $107 million for the year ended November 30, 2003, compared to $88 million for the year ended November 30, 2002. The $19 million increase in OIBDA principally related to approximately $25 million of lower advance write-offs and a $10 million favorable impact of foreign currency exchange rates, which more than offset $3 million of restructuring charges recognized in 2003 and the loss of margin on lower mechanical royalties received.
Music Publishing operating income decreased to $23 million for the year ended November 30, 2003, compared to a loss of $273 million for the year ended November 30, 2002. Music Publishing operating income includes the following components:
|
Years Ended November 30, |
||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
2003 |
2002 |
|||||
|
(in millions) |
||||||
OIBDA | $ | 107 | $ | 88 | |||
Depreciation and amortization | (84 | ) | (64 | ) | |||
Impairment of goodwill and other intangible assets | | (297 | ) | ||||
Operating income | $ | 23 | $ | (273 | ) | ||
72
The $296 million increase in operating income primarily related to a $20 million increase in depreciation and amortization expense, which was more than offset by the $19 million increase in OIBDA discussed above and the absence of a $297 million impairment of goodwill charge recognized in 2002. The increase in depreciation and amortization expense principally related to an increase in amortization expense associated with a reduction in the amortization period for Music Publishing copyrights from 20 years to 15 years, which was implemented at the beginning of 2003.
Corporate expenses
Corporate expenses before depreciation and amortization expense improved to $34 million for the year ended November 30, 2003, compared to $54 million for the year ended November 30, 2002. The improvement principally related to cost savings associated with the our restructuring initiatives, which more than offset a $1 million restructuring charge recognized in 2003.
Corporate depreciation and amortization expense was $17 million for the year ended November 30, 2003, compared to $9 million for the year ended November 30, 2002. These amounts increased corporate expenses to $51 million in 2003, compared to $63 million in 2002. The increase in depreciation and amortization expense related to higher depreciation charges on leasehold improvements associated with the consolidation of certain office space into a new location.
FINANCIAL CONDITION AND LIQUIDITY
Financial Condition
At September 30, 2004, we had $1.840 billion of debt, $555 million of cash and equivalents (net debt of $1.285 billion, defined as total debt less cash and equivalents) and $978 million of shareholder's equity. This compares to $120 million of debt, $144 million of cash and equivalents (net cash of $24 million) and $1.587 billion of group equity at November 30, 2003. The increase in net debt from 2003 compared to 2004 primarily reflects the portion of our purchase price paid to Time Warner that was funded by debt. Subsequent to September 30, 2004, we completed the payment of our $350 million return of capital to the Investors. This $350 million return of capital was paid in two installments: an $8 million payment made in September 2004 and reflected in our historical balance sheet and a $342 million payment in October 2004 funded by available cash and equivalents. Accordingly, after giving effect to the October 2004 payment, net debt increased to $1.627 billion and shareholder's equity decreased to $636 million.
Cash Flows
The following table summarizes our historical cash flows. The financial data for the seven months ended September 30, 2004, the three months ended February 29, 2004, and the years ended November 30, 2003 and 2002 have been derived from our audited financial statements included elsewhere herein. The financial data for the ten months ended September 30, 2003 are unaudited and are also derived from the audited financial statements included elsewhere herein. See "Change in Fiscal Year and Basis of Presentation" presented earlier herein for a discussion of the use of financial information for the combined ten-month period ended September 30, 2004.
|
Successor |
Predecessor |
Combined |
Predecessor |
|||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Seven Months Ended September 30, 2004 |
Three Months Ended February 29, 2004 |
Ten Months Ended September 30, 2004 |
Ten Months Ended September 30, 2003 |
Year Ended November 30, 2003 |
Year Ended November 30, 2002 |
|||||||
|
(audited) |
(audited) |
(unaudited) |
(unaudited) |
(audited) |
(audited) |
|||||||
(in millions) | |||||||||||||
Cash provided by (used in): | |||||||||||||
Operating activities | 86 | 321 | 407 | 257 | 278 | (13 | ) | ||||||
Investing activities | (2,663 | ) | 14 | (2,649 | ) | (73 | ) | (65 | ) | (365 | ) | ||
Financing activities | 2,661 | (10 | ) | 2,651 | (151 | ) | (121 | ) | 385 |
73
Ten Months Ended September 30, 2004 Compared to Ten Months Ended September 30, 2003
Cash provided by operations was $407 million for the ten months ended September 30, 2004, compared to cash provided by operations of $257 million for the ten months ended September 30, 2003. The $150 million increase in cash provided by operations resulted from higher business segment OIBDA of $144 million and an aggregate $117 million decrease in working capital requirements and other balance sheet changes. However, those amounts were offset by $51 million of higher interest payments associated with our leveraged capital structure, $7 million of higher tax payments (net) and $53 million of higher restructuring payments incurred in connection with our cost savings initiatives.
Year Ended November 30, 2003 Compared to Year Ended November 30, 2002
Cash provided by operations was $278 million in the year ended November 30, 2003, compared to cash used in operations of $13 million in the year ended November 30, 2002. Cash provided by operations in 2003 benefited from $189 million of business segment OIBDA and a $207 million aggregate decrease in working capital requirements and other balance sheet changes. However, these amounts were offset by $72 million of tax payments (net), $10 million of interest payments and $36 million of payments for restructuring liabilities related to the merger of AOL and Time Warner. The use of cash in 2002 related to $33 million of tax payments (net), $8 million of interest payments, approximately $175 million of merger-related restructuring and other one-time payments and an $11 million aggregate increase in working capital requirements and other balance sheet changes. These uses of cash more than offset the $207 million of OIBDA generated by our business segments.
Investing Activities
Ten Months Ended September 30, 2004 Compared to Ten Months Ended September 30, 2003
Cash used in investing activities was $2.649 billion for the ten months ended September 30, 2004, compared to $73 million for the ten months ended September 30, 2003. The increase in cash used in investing activities primarily related to the cash purchase price of $2.638 billion, including transaction costs, paid in connection with the Acquisition. In addition, capital expenditures for the ten months ended September 30, 2004 were $18 million, compared to the $30 million for the ten months ended September 30, 2003.
Year Ended November 30, 2003 Compared to Year Ended November 30, 2002
Cash used in investing activities was $65 million in the year ended November 30, 2003, compared to $365 million in the year ended November 30, 2002. The $300 million decrease principally related to lower investment spending and lower spending on capital expenditures, offset in part by the receipt of less investment proceeds.
The comparability of the components of investing activities was affected by our sale of 85% of our interest in Columbia House that occurred in the year ended November 30, 2002. As more fully described in Note 8 to the audited financial statements included elsewhere herein, prior to the closing of the Columbia House transaction, we recapitalized certain obligations of Columbia House owed to us. In particular, we made capital contributions to Columbia House of approximately $930 million (which is reflected as an investing activity under investments and acquisitions) and received approximately $700 million back in satisfaction of certain note receivables (which is reflected as an investing activity under investment proceeds). Although we have presented the cash flows associated with the recapitalization of Columbia House on a gross basis in our combined statement of cash flows in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, we believe that only the $230 million net cash outflow relating to the Columbia House transaction should be considered in order to better understand the changes in cash used in investing activities from 2003 to 2002.
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Accordingly, the $300 million decrease in cash used in investing activities principally related to (i) a $350 million decrease in investment spending, largely related to the use of cash in the year ended November 30, 2002 to fund the $230 million Columbia House recapitalization and the $85 million acquisition of Word Entertainment and (ii) a $37 million decrease in capital expenditures. Such amounts were offset, in part, by an $87 million decrease in investment proceeds received. Investment proceeds were $38 million in the year ended November 30, 2003 relating to the sale of our physical distribution assets and $125 million in the year ended November 30, 2002 relating to the sale of 85% of our interest in Columbia House.
Financing Activities
Ten Months Ended September 30, 2004 Compared to Ten Months Ended September 30, 2003
Cash provided from financing activities was $2.651 billion for the ten months ended September 30, 2004, compared to $151 million for the ten months ended September 30, 2003.
Cash flows from financing activities are not comparable from period to period. In 2004, we began operating as an independent company. However, in 2003, we were a wholly owned subsidiary of Time Warner. As such, all of our cash requirements were funded by Time Warner and Time Warner received most of the cash generated by us through a centralized cash management system or the use of shared international cash pooling arrangements. Consequently, except for principal payments on capital leases and certain net borrowings of third-party debt, which were not significant, all financing activities for the historical 2003 period related to the movement of cash between Time Warner and us.
Cash provided by financing activities for 2004 principally reflected activities to fund the purchase price paid in connection with the Acquisition, settle intercompany receivables and payables for the period preceding the Acquisition, and modify our initial capital structure by returning a portion of the initial capital contributed by the Investors. In particular, we borrowed $2.348 billion which was used primarily to (i) fund a portion of the purchase price paid in connection with the Acquisition (including transaction costs), (ii) pay $99 million of financing-related debt issuance costs, (iii) refinance approximately $625 million of our initial, variable-rate borrowings used to fund the Acquisition on a fixed-rate basis and (iv) repay $6 million of borrowings under the term loan portion of our senior secured credit facility. We also received capital contributions of $1.250 billion from the Investors to fund a portion of the purchase price paid in connection with the Acquisition, of which $210 million was subsequently repaid to the Investors through September 30, 2004 as a return of capital. Finally, with respect to the pre-acquisition, three-month period ended February 29, 2004, $114 million of net funding was received by Time Warner and used, in part, to repay $124 million of third-party indebtedness.
Year Ended November 30, 2003 Compared to Year Ended November 30, 2002
Cash used in financing activities was $121 million in 2003, compared to $385 million of cash provided by financing activities in 2002. As previously described, on a historical basis, all of our cash requirements were funded by Time Warner and Time Warner received most of the cash generated by us through a centralized cash management system or the use of shared international cash pools. Accordingly, except for principal payments on capital leases which were not significant and certain borrowings and repayments of third-party debt obligations discussed below, all financing activities related to the movement of cash between Time Warner and us.
During 2003, we repaid $101 million of debt relating to our 1998 acquisition of the 50% interest in Rhino Entertainment that we did not already own at that time. In addition, during 2003, we borrowed $114 million in connection with a recapitalization of certain wholly owned international subsidiaries. There were no borrowings or repayments of debt in 2002.
As described above, our operating, investing and financing requirements were funded by Time Warner and any cash generated by such activities was similarly remitted to Time Warner. In 2003, we paid Time Warner $131 million on a net basis, consisting of dividend payments of $68 million,
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payments of certain intercompany balances of $195 million and the receipt of $132 million of capital contributions. In 2002, we received $385 million of net funding from Time Warner, largely to fund our investing needs with respect to Columbia House and Word Entertainment. The $385 million of net funding from Time Warner consisted of $416 million of intercompany funding, which was offset in part by the payment of $31 million of dividends.
Liquidity
Our primary sources of liquidity are the cash flow generated from our operations, availability under our $250 million revolving credit portion of a senior secured credit facility and available cash and equivalents as of September 30, 2004. These sources of liquidity are needed to fund our new debt service requirements, working capital requirements, capital expenditure requirements and the remaining one-time costs associated with the execution of our restructuring plan to generate cost savings.
As of September 30, 2004, our long-term debt consisted of $1.182 billion of borrowings (excluding $12 million of debt that is classified as a current obligation) under the term loan portion of our senior secured credit facility and $646 million of Senior Subordinated Notes. There were no borrowings under the revolving credit portion of our senior secured credit facility as of September 30, 2004. The following is a summary of the principal terms of our indebtedness.
Senior secured credit facility
The senior secured credit facility consists of a $1.194 billion outstanding term loan portion and a $250 million revolving credit portion. The term loan portion of the facility matures in seven years in March 2011. We are required to prepay outstanding term loans, subject to certain exceptions and conditions, with excess cash flow or in the event of certain asset sales and casualty and condemnation events and incurrence of debt. See "Description of Other Indebtedness." We are required to make minimum repayments requirements under the term loan portion of our facility in quarterly principal amounts of $3 million for the first six years and nine months, with a remaining balloon payment in March 2011. See "Firm Commitments."
The revolving credit portion of the senior secured credit facility matures in six years in February 2010. There are no mandatory reductions in borrowing availability for the revolving credit portion of the facility through its term.
Borrowings under both the term loan and revolving credit portion of the senior secured credit facility bear interest at a rate equal to an applicable margin plus, at our option, either (a) a base rate determined by reference to the higher of (1) the prime rate of Bank of America, N.A. and (2) the federal funds rate plus 1/2 of 1% or (b) a LIBOR rate determined by reference to the costs of funds for deposits in the currency of such borrowing for the interest period relevant to such borrowing adjusted for certain additional costs. The initial applicable margin for borrowings under the revolving credit facility and the term loan facility is 1.75% with respect to base rate borrowings and 2.75% with respect to LIBOR borrowings. The applicable margin for borrowings under the revolving credit facility may be reduced subject to our attaining certain leverage ratios. The applicable margin for borrowings under the term loan facility is not subject to adjustment.
In addition to paying interest on outstanding principal under the senior secured credit facility, we are required to pay a commitment fee to the lenders under the revolving credit facility in respect of the unutilized commitments. The initial commitment fee rate if 0.50%. The commitment fee rate may be reduced subject to our attaining certain leverage ratios. We also are required to pay customary letter of credit fees, as necessary.
The senior secured credit facility contains a number of covenants that, among other things, restrict, subject to certain exceptions, our ability and the ability of our subsidiaries to sell assets, incur additional indebtedness or issue preferred stock, repay other indebtedness, pay dividends and distributions or repurchase capital stock, create liens on assets, make investments, loans or advances,
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make certain acquisitions, engage in mergers or consolidations, engage in certain transactions with affiliates, amend certain material agreements, change the business conducted by Holdings, we and our subsidiaries and enter into agreements that restrict dividends from subsidiaries. In addition, the senior secured credit facility requires us to maintain the following financial covenants: a maximum total leverage ratio, a minimum interest coverage ratio and a maximum capital expenditures limitation.
Senior Subordinated Notes
We have outstanding two tranches of senior subordinated notes due 2014: $465 million principal amount of U.S. dollar-denominated notes and £100 million principal amount of Sterling-denominated notes. The notes mature on April 15, 2014.
The notes bear interest at a fixed rate of 73/8% per annum on the $465 million dollar notes and 81/8% per annum on the £100 million sterling notes.
The indenture governing the notes limit our ability and the ability of our restricted subsidiaries to incur additional indebtedness or issue certain preferred shares; to pay dividends on or make other distributions in respect of our capital stock or make other restricted payments; to make certain investments; to sell certain assets; to create liens on certain debt without securing the notes; to consolidate, merge, sell or otherwise dispose of all or substantially all of our assets; to enter into certain transactions with affiliates; and to designate our subsidiaries as unrestricted subsidiaries. Subject to certain exceptions, the indenture governing the notes permits us and our restricted subsidiaries to incur additional indebtedness, including secured indebtedness.
Holdings Notes
Although Warner Music Group is not party to, or an obligor on, any of the Holdings Notes, Holdings recently incurred $396.8 million principal amount at maturity of indebtedness under its discount notes ($250 million of gross proceeds), $250 million of indebtedness under its senior notes and $200 million under its senior PIK notes. The discount notes will accrete to $396.8 million aggregate principal amount by 2009. As of September 30, 2004, after giving effect to these notes, Holdings on a stand-alone basis would have had $696 million of funded debt, net of original issue discount of $4 million on the senior PIK notes, and would have had consolidated funded debt of approximately $2.54 billion.
Cash interest payments on the discount notes will be due and payable commencing on June 15, 2010, and cash interest on the senior notes will be due and payable beginning in 2005. Holdings is not required to pay interest on the senior PIK notes in cash. Holdings' primary source of liquidity for such payments will be cash flow generated from the operation of its subsidiaries, including Warner Music Group. However, the terms of certain of the debt instruments governing Warner Music Group's existing notes significantly restrict Warner Music Group and Holdings' other subsidiaries from paying dividends, making distributions and otherwise transferring assets to Holdings. For example, the ability of Warner Music Group to make such payments is generally governed by a formula based on 50% of its consolidated net income (which, as defined in the indenture governing Warner Music Group's existing notes, excludes goodwill impairment charges and any after-tax extraordinary, unusual or nonrecurring gains and losses) accruing from June 1, 2004. In addition, as a condition to making such payments to Holdings based on such formula, Warner Music Group must have a ratio of Adjusted EBITDA to fixed charges ("Fixed Charge Coverage Ratio") of at least 2.0 to 1.0 after giving effect to any such payments. Warner Music Group may also make payments to Holdings or other restricted payments if, on a pro forma basis after giving effect to any such payment, it has a Net Indebtedness to Adjusted EBITDA ratio of no greater than 3.75 to 1.0 and a Net Senior Indebtedness to Adjusted EBITDA Ratio of no greater than 2.5 to 1.0. Warner Music Group may also pay up to $45 million to Holdings or make other restricted payments without regard to any such provisions. Finally, Warner Music Group's senior secured credit agreement permits Warner Music Group to make payments to Holdings so that Holdings can pay interest in cash on its indebtedness (including on its notes) up to a maximum amount of
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$35 million in any fiscal year for the next five years. Thereafter, the credit agreement will permit Holdings to pay cash interest when due if it is then required to be paid in cash, assuming there has been no event of default under the credit agreement.
Covenant Compliance
Our borrowing arrangements, including the senior secured credit facility and notes, contain certain financial covenants which are tied to ratios based on Adjusted EBITDA, which is defined under the indenture governing the notes as "EBITDA." Adjusted EBITDA (as defined in the indenture) differs from the term "EBITDA" as it is commonly used. In addition to adjusting net income to exclude interest expense, income taxes, and depreciation and amortization, Adjusted EBITDA (as defined in indenture) also adjusts net income by excluding items or expenses not typically excluded in the calculation of "EBITDA" such as, among other items, (1) any reasonable expenses or charges related to any issuance of securities, investments permitted, permitted acquisitions, recapitalizations, asset sales permitted or indebtedness permitted to be incurred; (2) the amount of any restructuring charges or reserves, subject to certain limitations; (3) any non-cash charges (including any impairment charges); (4) any gain or loss resulting from hedging currency exchange risks, (5) the amount of management, monitoring, consulting and advisory fees paid to the Investors, and (6) any net after-tax income or loss from discontinued operations.
Adjusted EBITDA is presented herein because it is a material component of the covenants contained within the aforementioned agreements. Non-compliance with those covenants could result in the requirement to immediately repay all amounts outstanding under those agreements which could have a material adverse effect on our results of operations, financial position and cash flow. Adjusted EBITDA does not represent net income or cash flow from operations as those terms are defined by GAAP and does not necessarily indicate whether cash flows will be sufficient to fund cash needs. While Adjusted EBITDA and similar measures are frequently used as measures of operations and the ability to meet debt service requirements, these terms are not necessarily comparable to other similarly titled captions of other companies due to the potential inconsistencies in the method of calculation. Adjusted EBITDA does not reflect the impact of earnings or charges resulting from matters that we may consider not to be indicative of our ongoing operations. In particular, the definition of Adjusted EBITDA in the indenture allow us to add back certain non-cash, extraordinary, unusual or non-recurring charges that are deducted in calculating net income. However, these are expenses that may recur, vary greatly and are difficult to predict.
Adjusted pro forma EBITDA as presented below is not a measure of the performance of our business and should not be used by investors as an indicator of performance for any future period. Further, our debt instruments require that it be calculated for the most recent four fiscal quarters. As a result, the measure can be disproportionately affected by a particularly strong or weak quarter. Further, it may not be comparable to the measure for any subsequent four-quarter period or any complete fiscal year.
The following is a reconciliation of net income (loss), which is a GAAP measure of our operating results, to Adjusted EBITDA as defined, and the calculation of our fixed charge coverage and Net Indebtedness to Adjusted EBITDA ratios under our indenture for the most recently ended four fiscal quarters ended September 30, 2004. The terms and related calculations are defined in the indenture,
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which is included as Exhibit 4.1 of our registration statement of which this prospectus forms a part (in millions, except ratios).
|
PRO FORMA |
||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Twelve Months Ended September 30, 2004 |
Twelve Months Ended September 30, 2004(a) |
|||||
Net income (loss) | $ | (1,250 | ) | $ | (1,250 | ) | |
Interest expense, net | 82 | 82 | |||||
Income tax expense | 112 | 112 | |||||
Depreciation and amortization expense | 268 | 268 | |||||
Management fees(b) | 6 | 6 | |||||
Impairment of goodwill and intangible assets(c) | 1,019 | 1,019 | |||||
Restructuring costs(d) | 34 | 34 | |||||
Net investment-related losses(e) | 9 | 9 | |||||
Equity in the losses of equity-method investees, net(f) | 13 | 13 | |||||
Deal-related transaction and other costs(g) | 63 | 63 | |||||
Loss on repayment of bridge loan(h) | 6 | 6 | |||||
Hedging and other foreign currency (gains) losses(i) | 10 | 10 | |||||
Non-cash compensation expense(j) | 1 | 1 | |||||
Cinram Agreement(k) | 5 | 5 | |||||
Adjusted EBITDA | 378 | 378 | |||||
Cost savings from Acquisition-related restructuring(l) | 143 | 143 | |||||
Adjusted pro forma EBITDA | $ | 521 | $ | 521 | |||
Fixed charges(m) |
$ |
107 |
$ |
107 |
|||
Net Indebtedness | $ | 1,285 | $ | 1,627 | |||
Fixed Charge coverage ratio(n) | 4.87x | 4.87x | |||||
Net Indebtedness to Adjusted pro forma EBITDA ratio(o) | 2.47x | 3.12x | |||||
Net Senior Indebtedness to Adjusted pro forma EBITDA ratio(o) | 1.23x | 1.88x | |||||
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The indenture governing the notes, subject to certain exceptions, also requires us to have a Fixed Charge Coverage Ratio of at least 2.0 to 1.0 in order to incur additional debt.
Summary
Management believes that future funds generated from our operations and available borrowing capacity will be sufficient to fund our debt service requirements, working capital requirements, capital expenditure requirements and the remaining one-time costs associated with the execution of a restructuring plan to generate cost savings for the foreseeable future. However, our ability to continue to fund these items and to reduce debt may be affected by general economic, financial, competitive, legislative and regulatory factors, as well as other industry-specific factors such as the ability to control music piracy.
Contractual and Other Obligations
Firm Commitments
The following table summarizes the Company's aggregate contractual obligations at September 30, 2004, and the estimated timing and effect that such obligations are expected to have on the Company's liquidity and cash flow in future periods. We expect to fund the firm commitments with operating cash
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flow generated in the normal course of business and availability under the $250 million revolving credit portion of the senior secured credit facility.
Firm Commitments and Outstanding Debt |
2005 |
2006-2008 |
2009 and thereafter |
Total |
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|
(in millions) |
|||||||||||
Term loan facility | 12 | 36 | 1,146 | 1,194 | ||||||||
Senior subordinated notes | | | 646 | 646 | ||||||||
Operating leases | 49 | 131 | 201 | 381 | ||||||||
Artist, songwriter and co-publisher commitments | 68 | 208 | 69 | 345 | ||||||||
Minimum funding commitments to investees and other obligations | 28 | 24 | 13 | 65 | ||||||||
Total firm commitments and outstanding debt | $ | 157 | $ | 399 | $ | 2,075 | $ | 2,631 | ||||
The following is a description of our firmly committed contractual obligations at September 30, 2004:
MARKET RISK MANAGEMENT
We are exposed to market risk arising from changes in market rates and prices, including movements in foreign currency exchange rates and interest rates.
Foreign Currency Risk
The Company has significant transactional exposure to changes in foreign currency exchange rates relative to the U.S. dollar due to the global scope of our operations. For the ten months ended September 30, 2004, approximately $1.4 billion, or 54%, of our revenues were generated outside of the U.S. The top five revenue-producing international countries are the U.K., Germany, Japan, France and Italy, which use the British pound, euro and Japanese yen as currencies, respectively. See Note 22 to our audited financial statements included elsewhere herein for information on our operations in different geographical areas.
Historically, Time Warner and we used foreign exchange contracts primarily to hedge the risk that unremitted or future royalties and license fees owed to our domestic companies for the sale, or anticipated sale, of U.S.-copyrighted products abroad may be adversely affected by changes in foreign currency exchange rates. However, in connection with the Acquisition, we are in the process of evaluating our hedging practices and alternatives and no significant foreign exchange contracts have been entered into as of September 30, 2004. See Note 21 to our audited financial statements included elsewhere herein for additional information.
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The Company also is exposed to foreign currency exchange rate risk with respect to its 100 million principal amount of sterling-denominated notes that were issued in April 2004. These notes mature on April 15, 2014. As of September 30, 2004, these notes had a fair value of approximately $187 million, compared to a carrying value of $181 million. Based on the principal amount of sterling-denominated notes outstanding as of September 30, 2004 and assuming that all other market variables are held constant (including the level of interest rates), a 10% weakening of the U.S. dollar compared to the UK sterling would increase the fair value of these notes to approximately $205 million. Conversely, a 10% strengthening of the U.S. dollar compared to the UK sterling would decrease the fair value of these notes to approximately $169 million.
Interest Rate Risk
We had $1.840 billion of total debt outstanding as of September 30, 2004, of which $1.194 billion was variable rate debt. As such, we are exposed to changes in interest rates. In order to manage this exposure, and consistent with the requirement under our senior secured credit facility to maintain a fixed-to-floating debt ration of at least 50% of our actual funded debt though at least April 2007, we entered into interest rate swap agreements with a notional face amount of $300 million in 2004. Under these interest rate swap agreements, we agreed to receive floating-rate payments (based on three-month LIBOR rates) in exchange for fixed-rate payments for a fixed term of three years through May 2007.
Based on the amount of our floating-rate debt and our interest rate swap agreements outstanding as of September 30, 2004, each 25 basis point increase or decrease in interest rates would increase or decrease our annual interest expense and cash outlay by approximately $2 million. This potential increase or decrease is based on the simplified assumption that the level of floating-rate debt remains constant with an immediate across the board increase or decrease as of September 30, 2004 with no subsequent change in rates for the remainder of the period. This increase or decrease in rates would partially be mitigated by an increase or decrease in interest income earned on the Company's cash balances, almost all of which are invested in short-term variable interest rate earning assets.
In addition to our $1.194 billion of variable-rate debt, we had approximately $646 million of fixed-rate debt outstanding at September 30, 2004. Based on the level of interest rates prevailing at September 30, 2004, the fair value of this fixed-rate debt was approximately $666 million. Further, based on the amount of our fixed-rate debt and our related $300 million of interest rate swap agreements noted above that were outstanding at September 30, 2004, a 25 basis point increase or decrease in the level of interest rates would increase or decrease the fair value of the fixed-rate debt by approximately $10 million. This potential increase or decrease in based on the simplified assumption that the level of fixed-rate debt remains constant with an immediate across the board increase or decrease in the level of interest rates with no subsequent changes in rates for the remainder of the period.
We monitor our positions with, and the credit quality of, the financial institutions that are party to any of our financial transactions. Credit risk relating to the interest rate swaps is considered low because the swaps are entered into with strong, credit-worthy counterparties, and the credit risk is confined to the net settlement of the interest over the remaining life of the swaps.
CRITICAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES
The SEC's Financial Reporting Release No. 60, "Cautionary Advice Regarding Disclosure About Critical Accounting Policies" ("FRR 60"), suggests companies provide additional disclosure and commentary on those accounting policies considered most critical. FRR 60 considers an accounting policy to be critical if it is important to our financial condition and results, and requires significant judgment and estimates on the part of management in our application. We believe the following list represents the critical accounting policies of us as contemplated by FRR 60. For a summary of all of our significant accounting policies, see Note 3 and Note 4 to our audited financial statements included elsewhere herein.
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We account for our business acquisitions under the purchase method of accounting. The total cost of acquisitions is allocated to the underlying identifiable net assets based on their respective estimated fair values. The excess of the purchase price over the estimated fair values of the net assets acquired is recorded as goodwill. Determining the fair value of assets acquired and liabilities assumed requires management's judgment and often involves the use of significant estimates and assumptions, including assumptions with respect to future cash inflows and outflows, discount rates, asset lives and market multiples, among other items. In addition, reserves have been established on our balance sheet related to acquired liabilities and qualifying restructuring costs based on assumptions made at the time of acquisition. We evaluate these reserves on a regular basis to determine the adequacy or accuracy of the amounts estimated.
Accounting for Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets
As discussed in Note 11 to our audited combined financial statements included elsewhere herein, effective as of December 1, 2001, we adopted FAS 142. FAS 142 which requires that goodwill, including the goodwill included in the carrying value of investments accounted for using the equity method of accounting, and certain other intangible assets deemed to have an indefinite useful life, cease amortization. FAS 142 requires that goodwill and certain intangible assets be assessed for impairment using fair value measurement techniques. Specifically, goodwill impairment is determined using a two-step process. The first step of the goodwill impairment test is used to identify potential impairment by comparing the fair value of a reporting unit with its net book value (or carrying amount), including goodwill. If the fair value of a reporting unit exceeds its carrying amount, goodwill of the reporting unit is considered not impaired and the second step of the impairment test is unnecessary. If the carrying amount of a reporting unit exceeds its fair value, the second step of the goodwill impairment test is performed to measure the amount of impairment loss, if any. The second step of the goodwill impairment test compares the implied fair value of the reporting unit's goodwill with the carrying amount of that goodwill. If the carrying amount of the reporting unit's goodwill exceeds the implied fair value of that goodwill, an impairment loss is recognized in an amount equal to that excess. The implied fair value of goodwill is determined in the same manner as the amount of goodwill recognized in a business combination. That is, the fair value of the reporting unit is allocated to all of the assets and liabilities of that unit (including any unrecognized intangible assets) as if the reporting unit had been acquired in a business combination and the fair value of the reporting unit was the purchase price paid to acquire the reporting unit. The impairment test for other intangible assets consists of a comparison of the fair value of the intangible asset with its carrying value. If the carrying value of the intangible asset exceeds its fair value, an impairment loss is recognized in an amount equal to that excess.
Determining the fair value of a reporting unit under the first step of the goodwill impairment test and determining the fair value of individual assets and liabilities of a reporting unit (including unrecognized intangible assets) under the second step of the goodwill impairment test is judgmental in nature and often involves the use of significant estimates and assumptions. Similarly, estimates and assumptions are used in determining the fair value of other intangible assets. These estimates and assumptions could have a significant impact on whether or not an impairment charge is recognized and also the magnitude of any such charge. To assist in the process of determining goodwill impairment, the Company obtains appraisals from independent valuation firms. In addition to the use of independent valuation firms, the Company performs internal valuation analyses and considers other market information that is publicly available. Estimates of fair value are primarily determined using discounted cash flows and market comparisons and recent transactions. These approaches use significant estimates and assumptions including projected future cash flows (including timing), discount rate reflecting the risk inherent in future cash flows, perpetual growth rate, determination of appropriate market
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comparables and the determination of whether a premium or discount should be applied to comparables.
Upon the adoption of FAS 142 in the first quarter of fiscal 2002, we recorded a non-cash charge of approximately $4.8 billion to reduce the carrying value of goodwill arising from the AOL-Time Warner Merger. Such charge is non-operational in nature and is reflected as a cumulative effect of a change in accounting principle in the accompanying combined statement of operations. The amount of the impairment primarily reflects the decline in Time Warner's stock price subsequent to when the AOL Time Warner Merger was announced and valued for accounting purposes in January 2000, as well as declines in the valuation of music-related businesses since January 2001 due, largely, to the industry-wide effects of piracy.
FAS 142 also required that goodwill deemed to be related to an entity as a whole be assigned to all of Time Warner's reporting units instead of only to the businesses of the company acquired, as was the case under existing practice. As a result, approximately $5.9 billion of goodwill generated in the AOL Time Warner Merger that had been previously allocated to the combined financial statements was reallocated to other segments of Time Warner.
During the fourth quarter of 2002, we performed our annual impairment review for goodwill and other intangible assets and recorded an additional charge of approximately $1.5 billion, which is recorded as a component of operating loss in our combined statement of operations. The charge consisted of a reduction in the carrying value of goodwill by approximately $646 million and a reduction in the carrying value of brands and trademarks by approximately $854 million. The amount of the impairment primarily reflects the decline in the valuation of music-related businesses due, largely, to the industry-wide effects of piracy.
The impairment charges recognized in connection with the initial adoption of FAS 142 and during the fourth quarter were non-cash in nature and did not affect our liquidity.
During the fourth quarter of 2003, in connection with Time Warner's agreement to sell us, we recorded an additional $1.019 billion impairment charge. The charge was necessary to reduce the carrying value of our intangible assets to fair value based on the consideration agreed to be exchanged in the transaction. The impairment charge is classified as a component of operating loss in our combined statement of operations. The charge consisted of a reduction in the carrying value of goodwill by $5 million, brands and trademarks by $766 million, recorded music catalog by $208 million and other intangible assets by $40 million.
The impairment charges recognized prior to 2003 were based on our estimates of fair value at the time the charges were recognized. As such, there were significant judgments made at the time. However, because the 2003 impairment charge was based principally on the difference between the negotiated purchase price of the Company and the historical book value of the net assets acquired, the amount of the charge was readily determinable.
As of September 30, 2004, the Company has recorded goodwill in the amount of $978 million, primarily related to the Acquisition. See Note 5 and Note 11 to our audited financial statements included herein for a further discussion of the Company's goodwill.
Equity Method and Cost Method Investments.
For non-publicly traded investments, management's assessment of fair value is based on valuation methodologies including discounted cash flows, estimates of sales proceeds and external appraisals, as appropriate. The ability to accurately predict future cash flows, especially in developing and unstable markets, may impact the determination of fair value.
In the event a decline in fair value of an investment occurs, management may be required to determine if the decline in market value is other than temporary. Management's assessments as to the nature of a decline in fair value are based on the valuation methodologies discussed above and our
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ability and intent to hold the investment. We consider our equity method investees to be strategic long-term investments; therefore, we generally complete our assessments with a long-term viewpoint. If the fair value is less than the carrying value and the decline in value is considered to be other than temporary, an appropriate write-down is recorded. Management's assessments of fair value in accordance with these valuation methodologies represent our best estimates as of the time of the impairment review and are consistent with our internal planning. If different fair values were estimated, this could have a material impact on the financial statements.
Revenue and Cost Recognition
Sales Returns and Uncollectible Accounts
In accordance with practice in the recorded music industry and as customary in many territories, certain products (such as compact discs and cassettes) are sold to customers with the right to return unsold items. Revenues from such sales are recognized when the products are shipped based on gross sales less a provision for future estimated returns.
In determining the estimate of product sales that will be returned, management analyzes historical returns, current economic trends and changes in customer demand and acceptance of our products. Based on this information, management reserves a percentage of each dollar of product sales to provide for the estimated customer returns.
Similarly, management evaluates accounts receivables to determine if they will ultimately be collected. In performing this evaluation, significant judgments and estimates are involved, including an analysis of specific risks on a customer-by-customer basis for larger accounts and customers, and a receivables aging analysis that determines the percent that has historically been uncollected by aged category. Based on this information, management provides a reserve for the estimated amounts believed to be uncollectible.
Based on management's analysis of sales returns and uncollectible accounts, reserves totaling $222 million and $291 million have been established at September 30, 2004 and November 30, 2003, respectively. This compares to total gross receivables of $793 million and $1.027 billion at September 30, 2004 and November 30, 2003, respectively.
The comparability of the gross dollar value of such reserves has been affected by the inherent seasonality in the music business. That is, the recorded music business historically has generated approximately 35% of its sales in the last three months of the calendar year due to increased consumer demand associated with the holiday season. As such, both gross receivables and related allowances would be at a naturally lower level at September 30, the end of our new fiscal year, in comparison to their level at November 30, the end of our old fiscal year. The ratios of our receivable allowances to gross accounts receivables were approximately 28% at the end of both September 30, 2004 and November 30, 2003.
Gross Versus Net Revenue Classification
In the normal course of business, we act as an intermediary or agent with respect to certain payments received from third parties. For example, we distribute music product on behalf of third-party record labels.
The accounting issue encountered in these arrangements is whether we should report revenue based on the "gross" amount billed to the ultimate customer or on the "net" amount received from the customer after participation and other royalties paid to third parties. To the extent revenues are recorded gross, any participations and royalties paid to third parties are recorded as expenses so that the net amount (gross revenues, less expenses) flows through operating income. Accordingly, the impact on operating income is the same, whether we record the revenue on a gross or net basis. For example, if we distribute a CD to a wholesaler for $15 and pass $10 to the third-party record label, the question
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is whether we should record gross revenue from the wholesaler of $15 and $10 of expenses, or should we record the net revenues we keep of $5. In either case, the impact on operating income is $5.
Determining whether revenue should be reported gross or net is based on an assessment of whether we are acting as the "principal" in a transaction or acting as an "agent" in the transaction. To the extent we are acting as a principal in a transaction, we report as revenue the payments received on a gross basis. To the extent we are acting as an agent in a transaction, we report as revenue the payments received less participations and royalties paid to third parties, i.e., on a net basis. The determination of whether we are serving as principal or agent in a transaction is judgmental in nature and based on an evaluation of the terms of an arrangement.
In determining whether we serve as principal or agent in these arrangements, we follow the guidance in EITF 99-19, "Reporting Revenue Gross as a Principal versus Net as an Agent" ("EITF 99-19"). Pursuant to such guidance, we serve as the principal in transactions in which it has substantial risks and rewards of ownership. The indicators that we have substantial risks and rewards of ownership are as follows:
Conversely, pursuant to EITF 99-19, we serve as agent in arrangements where we do not have substantial risks and rewards of ownership. The indicators that we do not have substantial risks and rewards of ownership are as follows:
Based on the above criteria and for the more significant transactions that we have evaluated, we record the distribution of product on behalf of third-party record labels on a gross basis, subject to the terms of the contract. However, recorded music compilations distributed by other record companies where we have a right to participate in the profits are recorded on a net basis.
Accounting for Royalty Advances
Another area of judgment affecting reported net income is management's estimate of the recoverability of artist advances and publisher advances. The recoverability of those assets is based on management's forecast of anticipated revenues from the sale of future and existing music and publishing-related products. In determining whether those amounts are recoverable, management evaluates the current and past popularity of the artists or publishers, the initial commercial acceptability of the product, the current and past popularity of the genre of music that the product is designed to appeal to, and other relevant factors. Based on this information, management expenses the portion of such advances that it believes is not recoverable. As of September 30, 2004 and November 30, 2003, we had $446 million and $511 million of advances on our balance sheet that we believe are recoverable, respectively.
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Stock-Based Compensation
The Company accounts for stock-based compensation issued to employees in accordance with SFAS 148, "Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation Transition and Disclosure" which amends FASB Statement No. 123. This statement provides alternative methods of transition for a voluntary change to the fair value-based method of accounting for stock-based employee compensation. The Company adopted the expense recognition provision of SFAS 123 as of March 1, 2004 and will provide stock based compensation expense for grants on and after that date on a modified prospective basis as provided by SFAS 148, and will continue to provide pro forma information for all previous periods in the notes to financial statements to provide results as if SFAS 123 had been adopted in those years. As disclosed in the notes to financial statements, the Company estimated the fair value of options issued at the date of grant using a Black-Scholes option-pricing model, which includes assumptions related to volatility, expected life, dividend yield and risk-free interest rate. The Company also issues restricted stock units. For restricted stock units issued, the accounting charge is measured at the grant date and amortized ratably as non-cash compensation over the vesting term.
Accounting for Income Taxes
As part of the process of preparing its consolidated financial statements, the Company is required to estimate income taxes payable in each of the jurisdictions in which it operates. This process involves estimating the actual current tax expense together with assessing temporary differences resulting from differing treatment of items for tax and accounting purposes. These differences result in deferred tax assets and liabilities, which are included within the Company's consolidated and combined balance sheets. SFAS 109 requires a valuation allowance be established when it is more likely than not that all or a portion of deferred tax assets will not be realized. In circumstances where there is sufficient negative evidence, establishment of a valuation allowance must be considered. The Company believes that cumulative losses in the most recent three-year period represent sufficient negative evidence to consider a valuation allowance under the provisions of SFAS 109. As a result, the Company determined that certain of its deferred tax assets required the establishment of a valuation allowance.
The realization of the remaining deferred tax assets is primarily dependent on forecasted future taxable income. Any reduction in estimated forecasted future taxable income may require that we record additional valuation allowances against our deferred tax assets on which a valuation allowance has not previously been established. The valuation allowance that has been established will be maintained until there is sufficient positive evidence to conclude that it is more likely than not that such assets will be realized. An ongoing pattern of profitability will generally be considered as sufficient positive evidence. Our income tax expense recorded in the future will be reduced to the extent of offsetting decreases in our valuation allowance. The establishment and reversal of valuation allowances could have a significant negative or positive impact on our future earnings.
Tax assessments may arise several years after tax returns have been filed. Predicting the outcome of such tax assessments involves uncertainty; however, we believe that recorded tax liabilities adequately account for our analysis of probable outcomes.
New Accounting Principles
In addition to the critical accounting policies discussed above, we adopted several new accounting policies during the past two years. Other than the changes in accounting for goodwill and other intangible assets under FAS 142 and the adoption of expense recognition for stock options under FAS 123, as previously described, none of these new accounting principles had a material affect on our audited financial statements. See Notes 3 and 4 to our audited financial statements included elsewhere herein for a more complete summary.
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Recorded Music
Background
Recorded music companies play an integral role in virtually all aspects of the music value chain, from discovering and developing talent to producing albums and promoting artists and their product. After an artist has entered into a contract with a record label, a master recording of the artist's music is created. The recording is then replicated for sale to consumers primarily in the CD format, and now, in digital formats. The recorded music company in collaboration with its distributor then markets, sells and delivers the product, either directly or through sub-distributors and wholesalers, to thousands of record stores, mass merchants and other retailers throughout the world. Recorded music products are also sold in physical form to Internet physical retailers such as Amazon.com and barnesandnoble.com and in digital form to Internet digital retailers like Apple's iTunes and musicmatch.com.
Recorded music companies generate revenues through the marketing, sale and licensing of their recordings in various physical and digital formats. The major recorded music companies have built significant recorded music catalogs, which are long-lived assets that are exploited year after year.
In 2004, 36% of all U.S. unit sales were from recordings more than 18-months old, and 25% were from recordings more than 36-months old; this distribution has been largely stable for the past seven years. The sale of catalog material is typically more profitable than that of new releases, given lower development costs and more limited marketing costs.
The recorded music business is the business of discovering and developing recording artists and promoting and selling their works. Recorded music is one of the primary mediums of entertainment for consumers worldwide and in 2003, generated $32.0 billion in retail sales. In 2003, the five largest players were Universal, Sony, EMI, WMG and BMG, which accounted for approximately 75% of worldwide recorded music sales in 2003. In addition, there are many mid-sized and smaller players in the industry that accounted for the remaining 25%. Universal was the market leader with a 24% global market share in 2003, followed by EMI and Sony, each with a 13% share. WMG ranked fourth with close to 13% of global music sales, followed by BMG with 12%. While market shares change moderately year-to-year, none of these players have gained or lost more than 3% in the last 5 years. In August 2004, Sony and BMG were combined to form Sony BMG.
The top five territories (U.S., Japan, U.K., France and Germany) accounted for 75% of the 2003 recorded music market. The U.S., which is the most significant exporter of music, is also the largest end-market, constituting 37% of total 2003 recorded music sales. In addition the U.S. and Japan are largely local music markets, with 93% and 72% of their 2003 sales consisting of domestic repertoire, respectively. In contrast, the French, U.K. and German markets are made up of a higher percentage of international sales, with domestic repertoire constituting only 60%, 47% and 48% of these markets, respectively.
There has been a major shift in distribution of recorded music from specialty shops towards mass-market and online retailers. Record stores' share of U.S. music sales has declined from 56% in 1993 to 33% in 2003. Over the course of the last decade, mass-market and other stores' share grew from 26% to 53%. Online digital distribution currently represents a small portion of overall sales, but is expected to experience significant growth. In terms of genre, rock remains the most popular style of music, representing 25% of 2003 U.S. unit sales, although genres such as rap and hip-hop and Latin music are becoming increasingly popular.
From 1990 to 1999, the U.S. recorded music industry grew at a CAGR of 7.6%, twice the rate of total entertainment spending. This growth was driven by demand for music, the replacement of LPs and cassettes with CDs, price increases and strong economic growth and was largely paralleled around the
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world. The industry began experiencing negative growth rates in 1999, on a global basis, primarily driven by an increase in digital piracy. Other drivers of this decline are the overall recessionary economic environment, bankruptcies of record retailers and wholesalers, growing competition for consumer discretionary spending and retail shelf space, and the maturation of the CD format, which has slowed the historical growth pattern of recorded music sales. Since that time, annual dollar sales in the U.S. are estimated to have declined at a CAGR of 5%, including an estimated decline of 6% in 2003. Similar declines have occurred in international markets, with the extent of declines driven primarily by differing penetration levels of piracy-enabling technologies, such as broadband Internet access and CD-R technology, and economic conditions.
Notwithstanding these factors, we believe that the music industry could improve based on the recent mobilization of the industry as a whole against piracy and the development of legitimate online music distribution channels. In addition, continued recovery of the world economy and improved consumer expenditures can drive growth in the recorded music industry.
Piracy
One of the industry's biggest challenges is combating piracy. Music piracy exists in two primary forms: digital (which includes illegal downloading and CD-R piracy) and industrial:
In 2003, the industry launched an intensive campaign to limit piracy that focused on four key initiatives:
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August 2003, that number had risen to 61% and during the latter part of 2004, awareness among Americans 13 years of age and older was measured at 68%.
These efforts are incremental to the longstanding push by organizations such as IFPI to curb industrial piracy around the world. In addition to these actions, the music industry is increasingly coordinating with other similarly impacted industries (such as software and filmed entertainment) to combat piracy.
We believe these actions are beginning to have a positive effect. A recent survey conducted by The NPD Group, a market research firm, shows that about one-third of Americans aged 13 or older who had ever downloaded music from a file-sharing service stopped using such file-sharing services over the past year, and an additional 27% reduced their downloading activity.
In addition, recent music sales data have improved over the prior year. For the one-year period ended January 2, 2005, U.S. music physical unit sales grew by approximately 1% relative to the comparable one-year period ended December 28, 2003 as reported by SoundScan. This positive growth trend is consistent across new releases and catalog product.
Music Publishing
Background
Music publishing involves the acquisition of rights to, and licensing of, musical compositions (as opposed to recordings) from songwriters, composers or other rightsholders. Music publishing revenues are derived from four main royalty sources:
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In the U.S., mechanical royalties are collected directly by music publishers from recorded music companies or via The Harry Fox Agency, a non-exclusive licensing agent affiliated with NMPA, while outside the U.S., performing rights organizations and collection societies perform this function. Once mechanical royalties reach the publisher (either directly from record companies or from collection societies), percentages of those royalties are paid to any co-owners of the copyright in the composition and to the writer(s) and composer(s) of the composition. Mechanical royalties are paid at a penny rate of 8.5 cents per song per unit in the U.S. (although recording agreements sometimes contain "controlled composition" provisions pursuant to which artist/songwriters license their rights to their record companies at as little as 75% of this rate) and as a percentage of wholesale price in most other territories. In the U.S., these rates are set pursuant to industry negotiations contemplated by the U.S. Copyright Act and are currently increased at two-year intervals. For example, on January 1, 2004, this rate went from 8 cents per song to 8.5 cents per song. On January 1, 2006, this rate will increase again to 9.1 cents per song. Recordings in excess of 5 minutes attract a higher rate. In international markets, these rates are determined by multi-year collective bargaining agreements.
Throughout the world, performance royalties are typically collected on behalf of publishers and songwriters by performance rights organizations and collection societies. Key performing rights organizations and collection societies include: The American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers ("ASCAP"), SESAC and Broadcast Music, Inc. ("BMI") in the U.S.; Mechanical-Copyright Protection Society and The Performing Right Society ("MCPS-PRS Alliance") in the U.K.; The German Copyright Society ("GEMA") in Germany and the Japanese Society for Rights of Authors, Composers and Publishers ("JASRAC") in Japan. The societies pay a percentage (which is set in each country) of the performance royalties to the copyright owner(s) or administrators (i.e., the publisher(s)), and a percentage directly to the songwriter(s), of the composition. Thus, the publisher generally retains the performance royalties it receives other than any amounts attributable to co-publishers.
The worldwide music publishing market was estimated in a report published by Enders Analysis in April 2004 to have generated approximately $3.7 billion in revenues in 2003. We estimate that mechanical royalties are approximately 30% of 2002 industry revenues; performance royalties, 33%; synchronization, 13%; and other, 23%. Geographically, North America is the largest market representing approximately 40% of the global publishing market.
The top five music publishers collectively account for over 60% of the market. Based on Enders Analysis estimates, EMI Music Publishing ("EMI Publishing") is the market leading music publisher, with a 18% market share in 2003, followed by WMG (Warner/Chappell) at 14%, BMG at 11%, Universal at 11% and Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC ("Sony/ATV") at 6%. Independent music publishers, which represent the balance of the market, include Chrysalis, edel, Carlin, Peermusic, Music Sales, Famous, MPL Communications and Windswept, among others, as well as many individual songwriters who publish their own works.
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Key trends
The music publishing market has proven to be more resilient than the recorded music market in recent years as performance, synchronization and other revenue streams are largely unaffected by piracy. Trends in music publishing vary by royalty source:
In addition, major publishers have the opportunity to generate significant value by the acquisition of small publishers by extracting cost savings (as acquired libraries can be administered with little or no incremental cost) and by increasing revenues through more aggressive marketing efforts.
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Our Company
We are one of the world's major music companies. Our company is composed of two businesses: Recorded Music and Music Publishing. We believe we are the world's fourth-largest recorded music company (third-largest in the U.S.) and the world's second-largest music publishing company. We are a global company, generating over half of our revenues in more than 50 countries outside of the U.S. We generated revenues of $3.4 billion during the twelve months ended September 30, 2004 and $2.5 billion during our ten month fiscal year ended September 30, 2004.
Our Recorded Music business produces revenue through the marketing, sale and licensing of recorded music in various physical formats (such as CDs, cassettes, LPs and DVDs) and digital formats. We have one of the world's largest and most diverse recorded music catalogs, including 27 of the top 100 U.S. best-selling albums of all timemore than any other recorded music company, including The Eagles, Their Greatest Hits, 1971-1975 (the best-selling album of all time), Led Zeppelin IV and Rumours by Fleetwood Mac. We also lead all recorded music companies in albums certified as "Diamond" by RIAA, which are those albums that have more than 10 million net shipped units in the U.S., with approximately 30% of the total. Our roster of over 38,000 artists spans all musical genres and includes Led Zeppelin, The Eagles, Madonna, Green Day, Metallica and Fleetwood Mac. Our more recent album successes include artists such as Linkin Park, Simple Plan, Jet, Michelle Branch, Alanis Morissette, Michael Bublé, Josh Groban, Sean Paul and Big & Rich. We operate in the U.S. principally through our major record labelsWarner Bros. Records Inc. and The Atlantic Records Group. Internationally, our Recorded Music business operates through various subsidiaries, affiliates and non-affiliated licensees. Our Recorded Music business generated revenues of $2.859 billion during the twelve months ended September 30, 2004 and $2.059 billion during our ten month fiscal year ended September 30, 2004.
Our Music Publishing business owns and acquires rights to musical compositions, exploits and markets these compositions and receives royalties or fees for their use. We publish music across a broad range of musical styles. We hold rights in over one million copyrights from over 65,000 songwriters and composers. Our library includes titles such as "Happy Birthday to You" by Mildred and Patty Hill, "Night and Day" by Cole Porter, "Layla" by Eric Clapton and Jim Gordon, "When a Man Loves a Woman" by Calvin Lewis and Andrew Wright, "Winter Wonderland" by Felix Bernard and Dick Smith, "Star Wars Theme" by John Williams, "The Wind Beneath My Wings" by Jeff Silbar and Larry Henley and "Frosty the Snowman" by Steve Nelson and Jack Rollins as well as more recent popular titles such as "Cry Me A River" by Justin Timberlake, Tim Mosley and Scott Storch, "Smooth" by Itaal Shur and Rob Thomas, "Crazy in Love" by Eugene Record, Beyoncé Knowles, Richard Harrison and Shawn Carter, "Hero" by Nickelback's Chad Kroeger, "Burn" by Usher, Brian Michael Cox and Jermaine Dupri, "It's Been Awhile" by Staind, "Pieces of Me" by Ashlee Simpson, Kara DioGuardia and John Shanks and "Thank You" by Dido Armstrong and Paul Herman. Our Music Publishing business generated revenues of $601 million during the twelve months ended September 30, 2004 and $505 million during our ten month fiscal year ended September 30, 2004.
Our Business Strengths
We believe the following competitive strengths will enable us to continue to generate recurring and stable free cash flow through our diverse base of recorded music and music publishing assets:
Industry Leading Recorded Artists and Songwriters. We have been able to consistently attract, develop and retain successful recording artists and songwriters. Our talented local artist and repertoire teams are focused on finding and nurturing future successful recording artists and songwriters, as evidenced by our recent recorded music album and music publishing successes. This has enabled us to
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develop a large and varied portfolio of recorded music and music publishing assets that generate stable and recurring cash flows. We believe these assets demonstrate our historical success in developing talent and will help to attract future talent in order to enable our continued success.
Stable, Highly Diversified Revenue Base. Our revenue base is derived primarily from relatively stable and recurring sources such as our music publishing library, our catalog of recorded music and new releases from our existing base of established artists. In any given year, we believe that less than 10% of our total revenues depend on artists without established track records, with each of these artists typically representing less than 1% of our revenues. We have built a large and diverse catalog of recordings and compositions that covers a wide breadth of musical styles including pop, rock, jazz, country, R&B, hip-hop, rap, reggae, Latin, alternative, folk, blues, gospel and other Christian music and are a significant player in each of our major geographic regions.
High Cash Flow Business Model. We have a highly variable cost structure, with substantial discretionary spending and minimal capital requirements. In October 2003, Time Warner's CD and DVD manufacturing, packaging and physical distribution operations were sold to Cinram, resulting in a significant reduction of our fixed cost base. As part of the sale, we entered into the Cinram Agreements. This outsourcing arrangement significantly reduces our exposure to fixed costs and is expected to reduce our future capital expenditure requirements. We spent an average of $22 million annually in capital expenditures for the ten months ended September 30, 2004 and for our twelve month fiscal years ended November 30, 2002 and 2003 (excluding $94 million spent to upgrade information technology systems and consolidate most of our West Coast businesses into a single location). This represented less than 1% of revenues in those years. We are always looking for sensible opportunities to convert fixed costs to variable costs. For example, we recently formed a joint venture with Universal Music Group, Exigen Group and Lightspeed Venture Partners called Royalty Services, L.P. to build and operate systems to process our royalty transactions. Finally, in addition to our variable cost base and relatively low capital requirements, we have contractual flexibility with regard to the timing and amounts of advances paid to existing recording artists and songwriters as well as discretion regarding future investment in new artists and songwriters, which further allows us to respond to changing industry conditions.
Well Positioned For Growth In Digital Distribution And Emerging Technologies. For the one-year period ended January 2, 2005, our market share of digital recorded music track sales in the U.S. as measured by SoundScan was higher than our overall recorded music album market share in the U.S., which we believe reflects the relative strength of our content and in particular our catalog content. In addition, we are highly focused on several new media initiatives: supporting existing and new online services in the U.S. and abroad, working with legitimate P2P providers, influencing the evolution of new mobile phone services and formats and simplifying the clearance of all of our content for digital distribution.
Proven and Committed Management Team. We are led by an experienced senior management team with an average of approximately 20 years of entertainment industry experience. Edgar Bronfman, Jr. joined the Company as Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer on March 1, 2004. Mr. Bronfman has extensive and directly relevant experience in the music industry. In 1998, Mr. Bronfman, while President and CEO of Seagram, oversaw the merger of Universal and PolyGram and successfully managed the combined business, the world's largest recorded music company. In addition, we have hired Lyor Cohen as the Chairman and CEO of our U.S. Recorded Music operations. Mr. Cohen was formerly the Chairman and CEO of Universal's Island Def Jam Music Group. Mr. Cohen has nearly two decades of experience in the music industry and has previously worked with Mr. Bronfman. Paul-René Albertini, our Chairman and CEO of Warner Music International, and Les Bider, our Chairman and CEO of Warner/Chappell Music, Inc., are also music industry veterans, each with over 20 years of experience. Our senior management team is very
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committed to our success. For example, Music Capital Partners, L.P., an investment vehicle controlled by Edgar Bronfman, Jr., owns approximately 13% of our equity. In addition, we expect that our senior management team will own a meaningful share of our equity through service and performance-based equity plans.
Strong Equity Sponsorship. THL, Bain Capital, and Providence Equity are each leading private equity firms with established track records of successful investments, extensive experience in managing investments in entertainment and media assets and a long history of working successfully together. These equity sponsors currently manage entertainment and media companies including Houghton Mifflin Company, ProSiebenSAT.1 Media, American Media and Mountain States Cable. The addition of Edgar Bronfman, Jr., through Music Capital, brings substantial and directly relevant management experience in the music industry.
Our Strategy
We intend to increase revenues and cash flow through the following business strategies:
Attract, Develop and Retain Established and Emerging Recording Artists and Songwriters. A critical element of our strategy is to find, develop and retain recording artists and songwriters who achieve long-term success. Our local artist and repertoire teams seek to sign talented recording artists with strong potential, whose new releases will generate a meaningful level of sales and increase the enduring value of our catalog by continuing to generate sales on an ongoing basis, with little additional marketing expenditure. We also work to identify promising songwriters who will write musical compositions that will augment the lasting value and stability of our music publishing library. We believe our relative size, the strength of our management team, our ability to respond to industry and consumer trends and challenges, our diverse array of genres, our large catalog of hit releases and our valuable music publishing library will help us continue to successfully build our roster of artists and songwriters.
Maximize the Value of our Music Assets. Our relationships with our recording artists and songwriters, our recorded music catalog and our music publishing library are our most valuable assets. We intend to continue to exploit the value of these assets through a variety of distribution channels to generate significant cash flow.
We intend to enhance the value of our assets by continuing to attract and develop new artists and songwriters with staying power and market potential. Additionally, we intend to continually evaluate our artist and songwriter roster to ensure we remain focused on developing only the most promising and profitable talent.
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Focus on Continued Management of Our Cost Structure. We intend to continue to maintain a disciplined approach to cost management in our business, and to pursue additional cost savings. The majority of cost savings in our Restructuring Plan are associated with headcount reductions from the consolidation of operations and the streamlining of corporate and label overhead, most of which were implemented in March and April 2004. Specific elements of the plan included consolidation of select business divisions of our Elektra Entertainment Group and Atlantic Group labels, including the legal and business affairs, finance and label sales units, rationalization of our global network, pruning of approximately 30% of our artist roster and an approximately 20% reduction in our global workforce. By the end of September 2004, we had implemented approximately $240 million of annualized cost savings. We expect to complete substantially all of our restructuring efforts by May 2005 with annualized cost savings of more than $250 million. We project the one-time costs associated with our restructuring to be between $225 million to $250 million, substantially less than the $310 million original estimate. There are still significant risks associated with the Restructuring Plan. See "Risk Factors."
Invest in Accordance with an Improved Asset Allocation Strategy. Our new management has undertaken a rigorous company-wide initiative in conjunction with outside consultants in order to enhance our financial performance through developing a more targeted approach to investments. Implementing the results of this study, we will primarily seek to invest in lines of business, geographic locations and individual projects where we believe we can optimize our return on capital. We will also consider the strategic importance of alternative investments in addition to their financial metrics. We believe that as a result of our management processes, analytic techniques and investment discipline, we are well positioned to efficiently deploy our capital.
Develop and Optimize Our Physical Distribution Channel Strategies. We will continue to develop innovative programs with our physical distribution partners to achieve greater sales volume. The physical distribution channels for records are evolving as new outlets develop, the mix of channels and retailers change, new formats for our content are created and pricing models multiply to meet a wide range of needs. Our Recorded Music business will continue to cooperate with its physical distribution channel partners in order to implement forward-looking strategies for our mutual benefit. We will also invest to meet the needs of our channel partners to create more efficient collaboration, such as direct-to-retail distribution strategies and vendor managed inventory.
Capitalize on Digital Distribution and Emerging Technologies. Digital formats should represent a new and exciting avenue for the distribution and exploitation of our recorded music and music publishing assets. We believe that the development of legitimate Internet and wireless channels for the purchase of music holds significant promise and opportunity for the industry. In particular, new and emerging third-party digital distribution outlets are not only reasonably priced, but also offer a superior customer experience relative to illegal alternatives, as they are easy to use, offer uncorrupted song files and integrate seamlessly with increasingly popular portable music players such as the Apple iPod, the Dell Digital Jukebox and the iRiver iHP. In addition, we believe digital distribution will stimulate incremental catalog sales given the ability to offer enhanced presentation and searchability of our catalog. In addition, as networks and phone handsets become more sophisticated, our music is increasingly becoming available on mobile phone platforms through wireless service providers via ring tones, ringback tones and music video downloads. In 2003, sales of ring tones in the U.S. exceeded that of CD singles. We believe the wireless market offers a more secure environment than does the Internet, with built-in digital rights management features operating inside privately controlled networks, and thereby reduces our exposure to piracy.
Contain Digital Piracy. Containing piracy is a major focus of the music industry and we, along with the rest of the industry, are taking multiple measures through technological innovation, litigation, education and the promotion of legislation to combat piracy. We believe new technologies such as
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spoofing, automated web crawlers and watermarking are geared towards degrading the illegal file-sharing process and tracking the source of pirated music and offer a means to reduce piracy. Furthermore, recent legal actions by our industry, both in and outside the U.S., have been designed to educate consumers and deter illegal downloads. The industry has also been working with educational institutions to implement controls to prohibit students from illegally downloading copyrighted material. We believe that consumer awareness of the illegality of piracy has increased as a result of these initiatives. We believe these actions, in addition to the expansive growth of legitimate online music offerings, will help to limit the revenues lost to digital piracy.
Company History
Our history dates back to 1929, when Jack Warner, president of Warner Bros. Pictures, Inc., founded Music Publishers Holding Company ("MPHC") to acquire music copyrights as a means of providing inexpensive music for films. MPHC was constructed through the acquisition of M. Witmark & Sons, Remick Music Corp., Harms, Inc. and Advanced Music Corporation. Along with these companies came the beginning of our valuable library of publishing assets, including the works of Cole Porter, Richard Rodgers and Lorenz Hart. Collectively, these assets, as well as numerous others were acquired over the last 75 years, including Chappell & Intersong Music Group acquired in 1987.
Encouraged by the success of MPHC, Warner Bros. extended its presence in the music industry with the founding of Warner Bros. Records in 1958 as a means of distributing movie soundtracks and further exploiting actors' contracts. For 45 years, Warner Bros. Records has pushed the bounds of the industry both creatively and financially with the discovery of artists such as Neil Young, Grateful Dead and the acquisition of Frank Sinatra's Reprise Records in 1963. Today, Warner Bros. Records is home to such artists as Faith Hill, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Linkin Park, Josh Groban and Madonna.
Atlantic Records was launched in 1947 by Ahmet Ertegun and Herb Abramson as a small New York-based label focused on jazz and R&B. Led by Ertegun, Atlantic had early hits by such artists as Ray Charles, John Coltrane and Aretha Franklin, but quickly broadened its reach and found increasing success with artists such as Bobby Darin, Crosby, Stills & Nash, Buffalo Springfield, Sonny and Cher and Led Zeppelin. Elektra Records was founded in 1950 by Jac Holzman as a folk music label. With an eye to emerging music, Elektra Records signed such artists as Joni Mitchell, The Eagles, The Doors and Jackson Browne. The Atlantic Records Group is home to Elektra Records, Atlantic Records and Lava Records and boasts a roster of acclaimed artists such as matchbox twenty, Phil Collins, Jewel, Kid Rock, Tracy Chapman, Metallica and Lil' Kim.
In addition, since 1970, we have operated internationally through WMI. WMI is responsible for the sale and marketing of our U.S. artists abroad as well as the acquisition and development of international artists such as Alejandro Sanz, Maná, MC Solaar and Laura Pausini.
In 2002, WMG acquired Word Entertainment to expand our presence in the Christian music genre. Word Entertainment boasts a deep roster of Christian artists, including Jaci Velasquez and Randy Travis.
Recorded Music
We play an integral role in virtually all aspects of the music value chain from discovering and developing talent, to producing albums and promoting artists and their product. After an artist has entered into a contract with one of our record labels, a master recording of the artist's music is created. The recording is then replicated for sale to consumers primarily in the CD format, and now, in digital formats. In the U.S., WEA Corp. and ADA market, sell and deliver product, either directly or through sub-distributors and wholesalers, to thousands of record stores, mass merchants and other retailers throughout the country. Our recorded music products are also sold in physical form to
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Internet physical retailers such as Amazon.com and barnesandnoble.com and in digital form to Internet digital retailers like Apple's iTunes and musicmatch.com.
In markets outside the U.S., our recorded music activities are conducted through our WMI division and its various subsidiaries, affiliates and non-affiliated licensees. WMI produces revenues in more than 50 countries outside the U.S. and engages in the same activities as our U.S. labels: discovering and signing artists and distributing, marketing and selling their recorded music.
In most cases, WMI also markets and distributes the records of those artists for whom our domestic record labels have international rights. In certain countries, WMI licenses to unaffiliated third-party record labels the right to distribute its records.
Artists and Repertoire ("A&R")
We have a decades-long history of identifying and contracting with recording artists who become commercially successful. Our ability to select artists who are likely to be successful is a key element of our Recorded Music business strategy. Our ability to select artists spans all music genres and all major geographies and includes artists who achieve national, regional and international success. We believe that this success is directly attributable to our experienced global team of A&R executives, to the longstanding reputation and relationships that we have nurtured in the artistic community and to our effective management of this vital business function.
In the U.S., our major record labels identify potentially successful recording artists, sign them to recording agreements, collaborate with them to develop recordings of their work and market and sell these finished recordings to retail stores and legitimate online channels. Our labels scout and sign talent across all major music genres, including pop, rock, jazz, country, R&B, hip-hop, rap, reggae, Latin, alternative, folk, blues, gospel and other Christian music. WMI markets and sells U.S. and local repertoire from its own network of 39 affiliates and numerous licensees in more than 50 countries. With a roster of over 500 local artists performing in 25 languages, WMI has an ongoing commitment to developing local talent aimed at achieving national, regional, or international success.
We continue to realize significant success in the acquisition of new artists and the development of new content. In 2003, we owned or distributed the top albums in the rock, classical and Christian genres with Linkin Park's Meteora, Josh Groban's Closer and Mercy Me's Almost There. Meteora was certified "Triple Platinum" by RIAA and IFPI in both the U.S. and Europe. In addition to these releases, we issued 15 other "Platinum" albums in the U.S. in 2003 and nine more in Europe, across a variety of genres ranging from R&B and hip-hop to rock and country. We also debuted several top-selling artists in 2003 including Sean Paul, Simple Plan, Trapt and Jason Mraz. We also released top-selling albums from new artists such as Big & Rich, Twista and Ryan Cabrera in 2004.
A significant number of our recording artists have continued to appeal to audiences long after we cease to release their new recordings. Our catalog includes the U.S. best-selling album of all time, Eagles, Their Greatest Hits 1971-1975, which has sold 28 million units to date. We have an efficient process for generating continued sales across our catalog releases, as evidenced by the fact that catalog albums generate approximately 40% of our recorded music sales. Relative to our new releases, we spend comparatively small amounts on marketing for catalog sales.
We maximize the value of our catalog of recorded music through our WSM business unit and through activities of each of our record labels. We use our catalog as a source of material for re-releases, compilations, box sets and special package releases, which provide consumers with incremental exposure to familiar songs and artists. Recent examples include packages such as "No Thanks!The 70's Punk Rebellion," greatest hits collections from artists such as James Taylor, Cher and Hootie and the Blowfish, box sets by ZZ Top and The Talking Heads and DVDs of Led Zeppelin live and the George Harrison tribute, "The Concert for George".
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Representative Worldwide Recorded Music Artists
Big & Rich | Damien Rice | Green Day | Maná | Red Hot Chili Peppers | ||||
Bjork | The Darkness | David Gray | matchbox twenty | R.E.M. | ||||
Michelle Branch | Disturbed | Josh Groban | MC Solaar | Alejandro Sanz | ||||
Michael Bublé | The Eagles | Jet | Metallica | Seal | ||||
Tracy Chapman | Enya | Jewel | Luis Miguel | Simple Plan | ||||
Cher | Fabolous | Kid Rock | Alanis Morissette | Staind | ||||
Eric Clapton | Faith Hill | Led Zeppelin | Sean Paul | Sugar Ray | ||||
Phil Collins | Fleetwood Mac | Linkin Park | Laura Pausini | Uncle Kracker | ||||
The Corrs | Goo Goo Dolls | Madonna | P.O.D. | Westernhagen |
Artists' Contracts
Our artists' contracts define the commercial relationship between our recording artists and our record labels. We negotiate recording agreements with artists that define our right to use the artists' copyrighted recordings in sales and licenses of our recorded music products worldwide. In accordance with the terms of the contract, the artists receive royalties based on sales and other forms of exploitation of the artists' recorded works. We customarily provide up-front payments to artists called advances, which are recoupable by us from future royalties otherwise payable to artists. We also typically pay costs associated with the recording and production of albums, which are treated in certain countries as advances recoupable from future royalties. Our typical contract for a new artist covers a single initial album and provides us a series of exclusive options to acquire subsequent albums from the artist. Royalty rates are often increased for optional albums. Many of our contracts contain a commitment from the record label to fund video production costs, at least a portion of which is generally an advance recoupable from future royalties.
Our established artists' contracts generally provide for greater advances and higher royalty rates. Typically, established artists' contracts entitle us to fewer albums, and, of those, fewer are optional albums. In contrast to new artists' contracts, which typically give us ownership in the artist's work for the full term of copyright, some established artists' contracts provide us with an exclusive license for some fixed period of time. It is not unusual for us to renegotiate contract terms with a successful artist during a term of an existing agreement, sometimes in return for an increase in the number of albums that the artist is required to deliver.
Marketing and Promotion
WEA Corp. and ADA market and sell our recorded music product in the U.S. Our approach to marketing and promoting our artists and their recordings is comprehensive. Our goal is to maximize the likelihood of success for new releases as well as stimulate the success of previous releases. We seek to maximize the value of each artist and release, and to help our artists develop an image that maximizes appeal to consumers.
We work to raise the profile of our artists, through an integrated marketing approach that covers all aspects of their interactions with music consumers. These activities include helping the artist develop creatively in each release, strategically scheduling album releases and selecting singles for release, creating concepts for videos that are complementary to the artists' work, and coordinating promotion of albums to radio and television outlets. When possible, we seek to add an additional personal component to our promotional efforts by facilitating television and radio coverage or live appearances for our key artists. Our corporate and label websites provide additional marketing venues for our artists.
In further preparation for and subsequent to the release of an album, we coordinate and execute a marketing plan that addresses specific retail strategies to promote the album. Aspects of these
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promotions include in-store appearances, advertising, displays, and placement in album listening stations. These activities are overseen by our marketing staffs to ensure that maximum visibility is achieved for the artist and the release.
Our approach to the marketing and promotion of recorded music is carefully coordinated to create the greatest sales momentum, while maintaining strict fiscal discipline. We have significant experience in our marketing and promotion departments, which we believe allows us to achieve an optimal balance between our marketing expenditure and the eventual sales of our artists' recordings. We use a budget-based approach to plan marketing and promotions, and we monitor all expenditures related to each release to ensure compliance with the agreed-upon budget. These planning processes are informed by updated reports on an artists' retail sales and radio play, so that a promotion plan can be quickly refined in the event of a commercial success or failure.
Our marketing efforts extend to our catalog albums, though most of the expenditure is directed toward new releases. Our WSM division (which includes Warner Special Products, Warner Television Marketing, Warner Music Group Soundtracks and Rhino Entertainment Company) specializes in marketing our catalog through compilations and reissues of previously released music and video titles, licensing tracks to third parties for various uses and coordinating film and television soundtrack opportunities with third-party film and television producers and studios.
Manufacturing, Packaging and Physical Distribution
On October 24, 2003, Time Warner sold its CD and DVD manufacturing, packaging and physical distribution operations ("TW Manufacturing") to Cinram for approximately $1.1 billion in cash consideration. The transaction included the sale of the following businesses: WEA Manufacturing Inc., Warner Music Manufacturing Europe GmbH, Ivy Hill Corporation, Giant Merchandising and the physical distribution operations of WEA Corp. The sales and marketing operations of WEA Corp. remain a part of our business.
At the time of the sale of TW Manufacturing to Cinram, we entered into long-term manufacturing, packaging and physical distribution arrangements with Cinram for our CDs and DVDs in the U.S. and Europe. We believe that the terms of the Cinram Agreements reflect market rates and are more favorable than our previous arrangements.
Sales
Most of our sales represent purchases by the wholesale or retail distributor. Our return policies are in accordance with wholesale and retailer requirements, applicable laws and regulations, territory- and customer-specific negotiations, and industry practice. We will generally attempt to minimize the return of unsold product.
We generate sales from both our roster of current artists and our catalog of recordings. In addition, we actively repackage and remarket music from our catalog to form new compilations. Most of our sales are generated through the CD format, although we also sell our music through both historical formats, such as cassettes and vinyl albums, and newer emerging digital formats and physical formats, including DVD-Audio and DualDisc.
Our recorded music sales are through a variety of different retail and wholesale outlets including music specialty stores, general entertainment specialty stores, supermarkets, mass merchants and discounters, independent retailers, and other traditional retailers. Although some of our retailers are specialized, many of our customers offer a substantial range of products other than music. We work with our customers to ensure optimal product placement and promotion.
We believe that the Internet will become an increasingly important sales channel. Sales through the Internet include sales of traditional physical formats through both the Internet distribution arms of
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traditional retailers such as walmart.com or hmv.com and online physical retailers such as Amazon.com and barnesandnoble.com. In addition, there has been a proliferation of legitimate online sites which sell digital music on a per album or per track basis. We currently partner with a broad range of online digital players, such as iTunes, MusicNet, musicmatch and Rhapsody, and are actively seeking to develop and grow this business.
Music Publishing
Where recorded music is focused on exploiting a particular recording of a song, music publishing is an intellectual property business focused on the exploitation of the song itself. In return for promoting, placing, marketing and administering the creative output of a songwriter, or engaging in those activities for other rightsholders, our Music Publishing business garners a share of the revenues generated.
Warner/Chappell is a global music publishing company headquartered in Los Angeles with operations in over 50 countries through various subsidiaries, affiliates, and non-affiliated licensees. We own or control rights to more than one million musical compositions, including numerous pop hits, American standards, folk songs and motion picture and theatrical compositions. Assembled over decades, our award-winning catalog includes over 65,000 songwriters and composers and a diverse range of genres including pop, rock, jazz, country, R&B, hip-hop, rap, reggae, Latin, folk, blues, symphonic, soul, Broadway, techno, alternative, gospel and other Christian music. Our best-selling songwriter or song owner and song accounted for less than 2.5% and 1% of our music publishing revenues for the twelve months ended November 30, 2004, respectively. Moreover, our music publishing library includes many standard titles that span multiple music genres and has demonstrated the ability to generate consistent revenues over extended periods of time. For example, over the last ten years, our top ten earning songs, which include such titles as "Happy Birthday to You" and "Winter Wonderland" have generally generated average annual revenues of between $0.5 million and $1.5 million per song. Warner/Chappell also administers the music and soundtracks of several third-party television and film producers and studios, including Lucasfilm, Ltd. and Hallmark Entertainment.
Warner/Chappell also owns Warner Bros. Publications ("WBP"), which prints and distributes a broad selection of sheet music, books and educational materials, orchestrations, folios, personality books, and arrangements from the catalogs of Warner/Chappell and other music publishers. On December 15, 2004, we entered into a definitive agreement to sell WBP to Alfred Publishing. Completion of the transaction is subject to customary closing conditions.
Music Publishing Portfolio
Representative Songwriters
Michelle Branch | Don Henley | Rockwilder | ||
Andreas Carlsson | Michael Jackson | John Shanks | ||
Eric Clapton | Led Zeppelin | Staind | ||
Bryan-Michael Cox | Madonna | Timbaland | ||
Sheryl Crow | Moby | Van Morrison | ||
Dido | Nickelback | Jorge Villamizar | ||
The Eagles | Pantera | Barry White | ||
Missy Elliott | Cole Porter | Wilco | ||
Fat Joe | The Ramones | John Williams | ||
Green Day | R.E.M. |
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Representative Songs
1950s and Prior |
1960s |
1970s |
||
---|---|---|---|---|
Happy Birthday to You | People | Behind Closed Doors | ||
Night and Day | I Only Want to be With You | Ain't No Stopping Us Now | ||
The Lady is a Tramp | When a Man Loves a Woman | For the Love of Money | ||
Too Marvelous for Words | I Got a Woman | A Horse With No Name | ||
Dancing in the Dark | People Get Ready | Moondance | ||
Winter Wonderland | Love is Blue | Peaceful Easy Feeling | ||
Ain't She Sweet | Hey Big Spender | Layla | ||
Frosty the Snowman | For What It's Worth | Staying Alive | ||
When I Fall In Love | Sunny | Star Wars Theme | ||
Misty | The Look of Love | |||
The Party's Over | ||||
On the Street Where You Live | ||||
Blueberry Hill |
1980s |
1990s |
2000 and After |
||
---|---|---|---|---|
Eye of the Tiger | Unbelievable | It's Been a While | ||
Slow Hand | Creep | This Is How You Remind Me | ||
The Wind Beneath My Wings | Macarena | Complicated | ||
Endless Love | Sunny Came Home | You Got It Bad | ||
Morning Train | Amazed | Crazy in Love | ||
What You Need | This Kiss | Cry Me a River | ||
Beat It | Believe | White Flag | ||
Jump | Smooth | Dilemma | ||
We Are the World | Livin' La Vida Loca | Work It | ||
Miss You | ||||
Burn | ||||
Pieces of Me |
Our Music Publishing revenues are derived from four main sources:
Music Publishing Royalties
Warner/Chappell, as a copyright owner or administrator of copyrighted musical compositions, is entitled to receive royalties for the exploitation of those musical compositions as identified below.
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Often, a copyright owner will transfer "administration rights" to a third party. Administration rights are tantamount to the right to license uses of the composition and collect monies derived therefrom.
Music publishers generally receive royalties pursuant to synchronization, mechanical, public performance and other licenses. Throughout the world, each synchronization license is subject to negotiation with a prospective licensee. By contract, music publishers pay a contractually required percentage of synchronization income to the songwriter(s) (or their heirs) and to any co-publishers. In the U.S., music publishers collect and administer mechanical royalties. Statutory ceilings are established by the U.S. Copyright Act of 1976, as amended, for the royalty rates applicable to musical compositions for sales of recordings embodying those musical compositions. In the U.S., the current maximum statutory mechanical license rate is 8.5 cents per song under 5 minutes of playing time. The statutory rates are sometimes reduced by contract between the licensor and licensee. Music publishers pay a contractually required percentage of mechanical royalty income to the songwriter(s) (or their heirs) and to any co-publishers. In the U.S., public performance royalties are typically administered and collected by performing rights organizations. Those organizations include ASCAP and BMI, which typically pay 50% of the collected performance royalty income to the songwriter(s) and 50% to the music publisher(s). In most countries outside the U.S., collection, administration and allocation of both mechanical and performance income are undertaken and regulated by governmental or quasi-governmental authorities. Those authorities include MCPS-PRS Alliance in the U.K. and GEMA in Germany.
Warner/Chappell acquires copyrights (or portions of copyrights) and administration rights from songwriters or other third-party holders of rights in compositions. Typically, in either case, the grantor of rights retains a right to receive a percentage of revenues collected by Warner/Chappell. As an owner and/or administrator of compositions, we promote the use of those compositions by others. For example, we encourage recording artists to record and include our songs on their albums, offer opportunities to include our compositions in filmed entertainment, advertisements and wireless media, and advocate the use of our compositions in live stage productions. Examples of music uses that generate publishing revenues include:
Mechanical: sale of recorded music in various formats
Performance: performance of the song to the general public
Synchronization: use of the song in combination with visual images
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Composers' and Lyricists' Contracts
Warner/Chappell derives its rights through contracts with composers and lyricists (songwriters) or their heirs, and with third-party music publishers. In some instances, those contracts grant either 100% or some lesser percentage of ownership in musical compositions and administration rights. In other instances, those contracts only convey to Warner/Chappell rights to administer and exploit musical compositions for a period of time without retaining an ownership interest. Our contracts grant us exclusive exploitation rights in the territories concerned (excepting any pre-existing arrangements). Many of our contracts grant us rights on a worldwide basis. Contracts cover the entire work product of the writer or composer for the duration of the contract. As a result, Warner/Chappell typically possesses the administration rights for every musical composition created by the writer or composer during the duration of the contract.
While the duration of the contract may vary, many of our contracts grant us ownership and/or administration rights for the duration of copyright. U.S. copyright law permits authors or their estates to terminate an assignment or license of copyright (for the U.S. only) after a set period of time. For U.S. works created before January 1, 1978 that are not "works made for hire", this period is 56 years. For U.S. works created after January 1, 1978 that are not "works made for hire", this period is 35 years. In the U.K., rights transferred by an author of certain works created before June 1, 1957 automatically revert to the author's heirs 25 years after the author's death.
Marketing and Promotion
We actively seek, develop and maintain relationships with songwriters.
We actively market our catalog to end users such as recorded music companies (including our Recorded Music business), filmed entertainment, television and other media companies, advertising and media agencies, event planners and organizers, computer and video game companies and other multimedia producers. We also market our musical compositions for use in live stage productions and merchandising. In addition, we actively seek new and emerging outlets for the exploitation of songs such as ring tones for cellular phones, new wireless and online uses, digital sheet music and Internet webcasting.
We continually add new musical compositions to our catalog, and seek to acquire rights in songs that will generate substantial revenue over long periods of time.
Competition
The industry in which we operate is highly competitive, is based on consumer preferences, and is rapidly changing.
At its core, the recorded music business relies on the exploitation of artistic talent. As such, much of our competitive strength is predicated upon our ability to continually develop and market new artists whose work gains commercial acceptance. In 2003, Recorded Music, our Recorded Music competitors included EMI, Universal, Sony and BMG. We also competed and continue to compete with numerous small and mid-sized independent music companies such as Madacy, Matador, Musicrama, Balboa, Koch, Sugar Hill, Beggars Banquet, TVT Records, V2 and edel. In August 2004, Sony and BMG merged their recorded music businesses to form Sony BMG. We believe we remain in competition for new and emerging talent.
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In Music Publishing, we compete with other music publishing companies in the acquisition and exploitation of musical compositions. Our competitors include EMI Publishing, Sony/ATV, Universal, and BMG. We also compete with numerous smaller and mid-sized music companies such as Chrysalis, edel, Carlin America, peermusic, Music Sales, Famous, MPL Communications and Windswept and many individual songwriters who publish their own works. We believe we remain in competition for musical compositions.
In both recorded music and music publishing we also compete based on price (to retailers in recorded music and to various end users in music publishing), on marketing and promotion (including both how we allocate our marketing and promotion resources as well as how much we spend on a dollar basis) and on recording artist and songwriter signings. We believe we currently compete favorably in these areas. However, there is a threat that the change to the competitive landscape caused by the new Universal and Sony BMG duopoly could drive up the costs of artist signings and the costs of marketing and promoting records to our detriment.
Our recorded music business is also dependent on technological development, including access to and selection and viability of new technologies, and is subject to potential pressure from competitors as a result of their technological developments. In recent years, due to the growth in piracy, we have been forced to compete with illegal channels such as unauthorized Internet peer-to-peer file-sharing and downloading and industrial duplication. See "Industry OverviewPiracy". Additionally, we compete, to a lesser extent, with alternative forms of entertainment such as motion pictures on home devices (e.g., VHS and DVD) or at the box office and with videogames for disposable consumer income. See also "Risk FactorsWe may be unable to compete successfully in the highly competitive markets in which we operate and we may suffer reduced profits as a result."
Intellectual Property
Copyright
Our business, like that of other companies involved in music publishing and recorded music, rests on our ability to maintain rights in musical works and recordings through copyright protection. In the U.S., copyright protection for works created as "works made for hire" (e.g., works of employees or specially-commissioned works) after January 1, 1978 lasts for 95 years from first publication or 120 years from creation, whichever expires first. The period of copyright protection for musical compositions and sound recordings that are not "works made for hire" lasts for the life of the author plus 70 years for works created on or after January 1, 1978. U.S. works created prior to January 1, 1978 generally enjoy a total copyright life of 95 years, subject to compliance with certain statutory provisions including notice and renewal. In the U.S., sound recordings created prior to February 15, 1972 are not subject to copyright protection but are protected by common law rights or state statutes, where applicable. Copyright in the European Union has recently been harmonized such that the period of copyright protection for musical compositions in all Member States lasts for the life of the author plus 70 years. In certain European Union countries, such as the U.K., the period of protection for musical compositions was recently extended from 50 years to 70 years, which has restored copyright protection in certain compositions in which our rights lapsed. In the European Union, the term of copyright for sound recordings lasts for 50 years from the date of release.
We are largely dependent on legislation in each territory to protect our rights against unauthorized reproduction, distribution, public performance or rental. In all territories where we operate, our products receive some degree of copyright protection, although the period of protection varies widely. In a number of developing countries, the protection of copyright remains inadequate. The U.S. enacted the Digital Millennium Copyright Act of 1998, creating a powerful framework for the protection of copyrights covering musical compositions and recordings in the digital world.
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The potential growth of new delivery technologies, such as digital broadcasting, the Internet and entertainment-on-demand has focused attention on the need for new legislation that will adequately protect the rights of producers. We actively lobby in favor of industry efforts to increase copyright protection and support the efforts of organizations such as the World Intellectual Property Organization ("WIPO").
In December 1996, two global copyright treaties, the WIPO Copyright Treaty and the WIPO Performances and Phonograms Treaty, were signed securing the basic legal framework for the international music industry to trade and invest in online music businesses. The WIPO treaties have been ratified by the requisite number of countries, including the U.S.
The European Union has implemented these treaties through the European Copyright Directive, which was adopted by the EU in 2001. Legislation implementing the Directive in each of the member states is underway. The Directive harmonizes copyright laws across Europe and extends substantial protection for copyrights online. The European Union has also put forward legislation aimed at assuring cross border coordination of the enforcement of laws related to counterfeit goods, including musical recordings.
Trademarks
An important part of our business is our trademarks. Our major trademarks are registered in every country where we believe the protection of these trademarks is important for our business. Our major trademarks include Atlantic, Elektra, Sire, Reprise and Warner/Chappell. We use certain trademarks pursuant to royalty-free license agreements. The duration of the license relating to the WARNER and WARNER MUSIC marks and a "W" logo is perpetual. The duration of the license relating to the WARNER BROS. RECORDS and WARNER BROS. PUBLICATIONS marks and WB & Shield designs is fifteen years. Each of the licenses may be terminated under certain limited circumstances, which include material breaches of the agreement, certain events of insolvency, and certain change of control events if we were to become controlled by a major filmed entertainment company. We actively monitor and protect against activities that might infringe, dilute, or otherwise harm our trademarks.
Combating Piracy
We continue to focus on combating and containing piracy as a top priority. We have continued to take a leadership role in the music industry's war against piracy. For example, in 2003, we championed the industry-wide development of the new DualDisc (CD/DVD) physical format, we partnered with Apple on its security model for its Macintosh and PC launches of iTunes, and we encouraged Microsoft to retool its Digital Rights Management digital media copyright protection technology and include playlist burn limits. In addition, we continue to support the aggressive measures taken by RIAA, IFPI and NMPA, including civil lawsuits, education programs, political lobbying for tougher restrictions on use, and international efforts to preserve music copyrights. See "Industry OverviewRecorded MusicPiracy" for additional detail on these efforts.
Joint Ventures
We have entered into joint venture arrangements pursuant to which we or our various subsidiary companies manufacture, distribute and market (in most cases, domestically and internationally) recordings owned by joint ventures, such as Maverick Recording Company, a joint venture between Warner Bros. Records and Guy Oseary.
Employees
As of November 30, 2004, we employed approximately 4,100 persons worldwide. This represents a decline of approximately 20% from the number of employees at November 30, 2003, largely as a result
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of our cost and headcount reductions under the Restructuring Plan. Most of the related headcount reductions were completed by April 2004. None of our employees in the U.S. are subject to collective bargaining agreements, although certain employees in our non-domestic companies are covered by national labor agreements. We believe that our relationship with our employees is good.
Properties and Facilities
We own distribution, studio and office facilities and also lease certain facilities in the ordinary course of business. Our executive offices are located at 75 Rockefeller Plaza, New York, NY 10019. In addition, we have a ten-year lease for our headquarters at 75 Rockefeller Plaza, New York, New York 10019. We also have a seventeen-year lease for office space in a building located at 3400 West Olive Avenue, Burbank, California 91505 and an approximately eight-year lease for office space at 1290 Avenue of the Americas, New York, New York 10104.
Environmental Matters
Our wholly and partially owned pick, pack and ship facilities throughout the world and our leased printed sheet music manufacturing facility in Florida, which are not a significant part of our business, are subject to laws and regulations and international agreements governing the protection of the environment, natural resources, human health and safety and the use, management and disposal of hazardous substances. In particular, our operations are subject to stringent requirements for packaging content and recycling, air and water emissions, and waste management. We believe that we comply substantially with all applicable environmental requirements. Although the costs of maintaining such compliance have not materially affected us to date, we cannot predict the costs of complying with requirements that may be imposed in the future. In connection with some of our existing facilities, we also have been, and may become again, responsible for the costs of investigating or cleaning up contaminated properties. Such costs or related third-party personal injury or property damage claims could have a material adverse affect on our business, results of operations or financial condition.
Legal Proceedings
On September 7, 2004 and November 22, 2004, Eliot Spitzer, the Attorney General of the State of New York served Warner Music Group, with requests for information in the form of subpoenas duces tecum in connection with an industry-wide investigation of the relationship between music companies and radio stations, including the use of independent promoters. In response to the Attorney General's inquiry, we have commenced the production of documents.
We are involved in litigation arising in the normal course of our business. Management does not believe that any legal proceedings pending against us will have, individually, or in the aggregate, a material adverse effect on our business. However, we cannot predict with certainty the outcome of any litigation or the potential for future litigation. Regardless of the outcome, litigation can have an adverse impact on us because of defense costs, diversion of management resources and other factors.
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The directors and executive officers of Parent, Holdings and Warner Music Group as of December 1, 2004 are as follows:
Name |
Age |
Position |
|
---|---|---|---|
Executive Officers |
|||
Edgar Bronfman, Jr. |
49 |
Chairman of the Board and CEO |
|
Lyor Cohen |
45 |
Chairman and CEO, U.S. Recorded Music |
|
Paul-René Albertini |
45 |
Chairman and CEO, Warner Music International |
|
Les Bider |
54 |
Chairman and CEO, Warner/Chappell Music, Inc. |
|
Michael D. Fleisher |
40 |
Chief Financial Officer |
|
Michael Ward |
41 |
Former Acting Chief Financial Officer |
|
David H. Johnson |
58 |
Executive Vice President and General Counsel |
|
Non-Employee Directors |
|||
Len Blavatnik |
47 |
Director |
|
Charles A. Brizius |
35 |
Director |
|
John P. Connaughton |
39 |
Director |
|
Scott L. Jaeckel |
34 |
Director |
|
Seth W. Lawry |
40 |
Director |
|
Thomas H. Lee |
60 |
Director |
|
Ian Loring |
38 |
Director |
|
Jonathan M. Nelson |
48 |
Director |
|
Mark Nunnelly |
46 |
Director |
|
Scott M. Sperling |
47 |
Director |
The board of directors of Parent has the right to appoint an additional two independent directors to our board of directors. The following information provides a brief description of the business experience of each director and executive officer.
Edgar Bronfman, Jr. has served as our Chairman of the Board and CEO since March 1, 2004. Before joining Warner Music Group, Mr. Bronfman served as Chairman and CEO of Lexa Partners LLC, a management venture capital group based in New York City. Prior to Lexa Partners, Mr. Bronfman was appointed Executive Vice Chairman of Vivendi Universal in December 2000. He resigned from his position as an officer and executive of Vivendi Universal on March 31, 2002, and resigned as Vice Chairman of Vivendi Universal's Board of Directors on December 2, 2003. Prior to the December 2000 formation of Vivendi Universal, Mr. Bronfman was President and CEO of The Seagram Company Ltd., a post he held since June 1994. During his tenure as the CEO of Seagram, he consummated $85 billion in transactions and transformed the company into one of the world's leading media and communications companies. From 1989 until June 1994, Mr. Bronfman served as President and COO of Seagram. Between 1982 and 1989, he held a series of senior executive positions for The Seagram Company Ltd. in the U.S. and in Europe.
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Lyor Cohen has served as the Chairman and CEO of our U.S. Recorded Music operations since March 1, 2004. From 2002 to 2004, Mr. Cohen was the Chairman and CEO of Universal Music Group's Island Def Jam Music Group. Mr. Cohen served as President of Def Jam from 1988 to 2002. Previously, Mr. Cohen served in various capacities at Rush Management, a hip-hop management company, which he founded with partner Russell Simmons. Mr. Cohen is widely credited with expanding Island Def Jam beyond its hip-hop roots to include a wider range of musical genres.
Paul-René Albertini has served as President of Warner Music International since 2002 and currently leads our international operations as Chairman and CEO. From December 2000 until 2002, Mr. Albertini served as President of Warner Music Europe. He joined Warner Music International from Sony Music Entertainment Europe where he held the post of Executive Vice President from 1999. Prior to that he served as President and CEO Sony Music France between 1994 and 1999. In 1991 he became CEO of PolyGram Disques France. In 1983, Mr. Albertini joined PolyGram as International Label Manager before becoming Marketing Director for Barclay Records. He was named Director of Marketing and Promotion for Phonogram in 1989, and was appointed Managing Director Phonogram France.
Les Bider has served as Chairman and CEO of Warner/Chappell Music, Inc. since 1988, and leads our publishing division. Mr. Bider served as CFO of Warner Bros. Music, Warner/Chappell's predecessor entity, from 1981 to 1983. In 1983, he became CFO and COO of Warner/Chappell Music. Mr. Bider holds an M.B.A. from the Wharton School of Business and a B.S. from University of Southern California.
Michael D. Fleisher has served as our Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer since January 1, 2005. Prior to joining Warner Music Group Mr. Fleisher was Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Gartner, Inc. Mr. Fleisher joined Gartner in 1993 and served in several roles including Chief Financial Officer prior to being named CEO in 1999. Previous to Gartner he was at Bain Capital. Mr. Fleisher serves on the Board of Ameritrade and NYC2012.
Michael Ward served as Warner Music Group's acting Chief Financial Officer from June 4, 2004 to January 1, 2005 while we conducted a search to fill the position on a permanent basis. Although Mr. Ward has been replaced by Mr. Fleisher as of January 1, 2005, Mr. Ward will continue to be available to the Company on a consulting basis during a transition period. Mr. Ward is employed as a Managing Director with Bain Capital where he serves in their portfolio group, and is not being compensated by us. Mr. Ward joined Bain Capital in 1993. Prior to Bain Capital he was the President and Chief Operating Officer of Digitas, Inc. Prior to Digitas he worked in various positions at Bain Consulting, Inc. and Price Waterhouse. Mr. Ward received his Bachelor of Applied Science in Chemical Engineering and Bachelor of Science in Accounting and Finance from The University of Pennsylvania. He received his M.B.A. from The Amos Tuck School of Business Administration. He is on the Board of Directors of Houghton Mifflin, Inc., El Dorado Marketing, Inc., and the Boston Public Library Foundation.
David H. Johnson has served as Executive Vice President and General Counsel since 1999. Prior to joining Warner Music Group Inc., Mr. Johnson spent nine years as Senior Vice President and General Counsel for Sony Music Entertainment. He also held several posts at CBS and was an associate in the law firm Mayer, Nussbaum, Katz & Baker. Mr. Johnson received a B.A. in political science from Yale University, a J.D. from the University of Pennsylvania Law School and an L.L.M. from New York University School of Law.
Len Blavatnik has served as our director since March 4, 2004. He is Chairman, Founder and principal shareholder of Access Industries, a global private investment firm with a diversified portfolio in energy, minerals and mining, telecommunications, real estate, and financial services. Mr. Blavatnik serves as a Director of TNK-BP, the Siberian-Urals Aluminum Company (SUAL), and B2 Bredband AB and for numerous academic and philanthropic organizations. He received a masters degree in Computer Science from Columbia University and an M.B.A. from Harvard Business School.
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Charles A. Brizius has served as our director since March 4, 2004. He is a Managing Director at Thomas H. Lee Partners, L.P. Mr. Brizius worked at Thomas H. Lee Company from 1993 to 1995, rejoining in 1997. From 1991 to 1993, Mr. Brizius worked at Morgan Stanley & Co. Incorporated in the Corporate Finance Department. He is also a director of Houghton Mifflin Company, TransWestern Holdings, L.P., United Industries Corporation and Eye Care Centers of America, Inc. He holds a B.B.A. in Finance and Accounting from Southern Methodist University and an M.B.A. from Harvard Business School.
John P. Connaughton has served as our director since March 4, 2004. He has been a Managing Director of Bain Capital Partners, LLC since 1997 and a member of the firm since 1989. Prior to joining Bain Capital, Mr. Connaughton was a consultant at Bain & Company, Inc., where he worked in the consumer products and business services industries. He serves as a director of ProSiebenSat.1 Media AG, Stericycle Inc, Shopping.com, the Boston Celtics, Epoch, MC Communications and Loews Cineplex. Mr. Connaughton received a B.S. in commerce from the University of Virginia and a M.B.A. from Harvard Business School, where he was a Baker Scholar.
Scott L. Jaeckel has served as our director since March 4, 2004. He is a Vice President at Thomas H. Lee Partners, L.P. Mr. Jaeckel worked at Thomas H. Lee Company from 1994 to 1996, rejoining in 1998. From 1992 to 1994, Mr. Jaeckel worked at Morgan Stanley & Co. Incorporated in the Corporate Finance Department. He currently serves as a director of Paramax Capital Group and Refco Group Ltd., LLC. He holds a B.A. in Economics and Mathematics from The University of Virginia and an M.B.A. from Harvard Business School.
Seth W. Lawry has served as our director since March 4, 2004. He is a Managing Director at Thomas H. Lee Partners, L.P. He is also a director of ProSiebenSat.1 Media AG and Houghton Mifflin Company. Mr. Lawry worked at Thomas H. Lee Company from 1989 to 1990, rejoining in 1994. From 1987 to 1989 and 1992 to 1994, Mr. Lawry worked at Morgan Stanley & Co. Incorporated in the Mergers & Acquisitions, Corporate Finance and Equity Capital Markets departments. Mr. Lawry holds a B.A. in Economics and German Studies from Williams College and an M.B.A. from Stanford Graduate School of Business.
Thomas H. Lee has served as our director since March 4, 2004. He founded the Thomas H. Lee Company, the predecessor of Thomas H. Lee Partners, L.P., in 1974 and since that time has served as its Chairman and CEO. From 1966 through 1974, Mr. Lee was with First National Bank of Boston where he directed the bank's high technology lending group from 1968 to 1974 and became a Vice President in 1973. Prior to 1966, Mr. Lee was a securities analyst in the institutional research department of L.F. Rothschild in New York. Mr. Lee serves or has served as a director of numerous public and private companies in which THL and its affiliates have invested, including Finlay Enterprises, Inc., The Smith & Wollensky Restaurant Group, Inc., General Nutrition Companies, Metris Companies, Inc., Playtex Products, Inc., Snapple Beverage Corp., Vertis Holdings, Inc., Refco Group Ltd., LLC and Wyndham International, Inc. In addition, Mr. Lee is a Member of the JP Morgan National Advisory Board. Mr. Lee is currently a Trustee of Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts, The Museum of Modern Art, NYU Medical Center, The Rockefeller University, and Whitney Museum of American Art among other civic and charitable organizations. He also serves on the Executive Committee for Harvard University's Committee on University Resources. Mr. Lee is a 1965 graduate of Harvard College.
Ian Loring has served as our director since March 4, 2004. He is a Managing Director of Bain Capital Partners, LLC. Prior to joining Bain Capital in 1996, Mr. Loring was a Vice President at Berkshire Partners where he worked in the specialty manufacturing, technology and retail industries. Previously, Mr. Loring worked in the Corporate Finance department at Drexel Burnham Lambert. He serves as a director of Eschelon Telecom and SMTC Corporation. Mr. Loring received a B.A. from Trinity College and an M.B.A. from Harvard Business School.
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Jonathan M. Nelson has served as our director since March 4, 2004. He is the Chief Executive Officer and founder of Providence Equity. Mr. Nelson is a director of Bresnan Broadband Holdings, LLC (also known as Mountain States Cable Television), Western Wireless Corp., Narragansett Capital Inc. and Yankees Entertainment and Sports Network, Inc., and was, during the period of Providence's investment, a director of VoiceStream Wireless Corp. (now Deutsche Telekom A.G.), MetroNet Communications Corp./AT&T Canada, Inc. (now Allstream), Brooks Fiber Properties, Inc. (now MCI), Wireless One Network (now AT&T Wireless), InfoNet Media, Inc., Powerfone Holdings (now Nextel), and numerous other portfolio companies. Prior to founding Providence Equity Partners in 1991, Mr. Nelson was a founder and Managing Director of Narragansett Capital Inc. where he specialized in broadcasting, publishing and cable television. Mr. Nelson is currently a director of Trinity Repertory Company in Providence, Rhode Island and a Trustee of Brown University. Mr. Nelson received a B.A. from Brown University and an M.B.A. from Harvard Business School.
Mark Nunnelly has served as our director since March 4, 2004. He joined Bain Capital Partners, LLC in 1990 as a Managing Director. Prior to joining Bain Capital, Mr. Nunnelly was a Vice President of Bain & Company, with experience in its domestic, Asian and European strategy practices. Previously, Mr. Nunnelly worked at Procter & Gamble in product management. He serves as a director of Domino's Pizza, DoubleClick, Eschelon Telecom, Houghton Mifflin Company, Advertising Directory Solutions and UGS PLM Solutions. Mr. Nunnelly received an A.B. from Centre College and an M.B.A. from Harvard Business School.
Scott M. Sperling has served as our director since March 4, 2004. He is a Managing Director at Thomas H. Lee Partners, L.P. Mr. Sperling is also President of THLee Putnam Capital, a joint venture with Putnam Investments, one of the largest global investment management firms. Mr. Sperling is currently a director of Houghton Mifflin Company, Fisher Scientific International, Inc., Vertis, Inc., Wyndham International and several private companies. Prior to joining Thomas H. Lee Partners, Mr. Sperling was for over ten years Managing Partner of The Aeneas Group, Inc., the private capital affiliate of Harvard Management Company. Before that, he was a senior consultant with the Boston Consulting Group. He received a B.S. from Purdue University and an M.B.A. from Harvard Business School.
Committees of the Board of Directors of Parent
Parent's board of directors currently has an audit committee, a compensation committee and an executive, governance and nominating committee.
Audit Committee of Parent
We expect Parent's audit committee to consist of John Connaughton, Chuck Brizius and Scott Jaeckel. The audit committee's responsibilities will include, among other things, (1) recommending the hiring or termination of independent auditors and approving any non-audit work performed by such auditor, (2) approving the overall scope of the audit, (3) assisting the board in monitoring the integrity of our financial statements, the independent accountant's qualifications and independence, the performance of the independent accountants and our internal audit function and our compliance with legal and regulatory requirements, (4) annually reviewing an independent auditors' report describing the auditing firms' internal quality-control procedures, any material issues raised by the most recent internal quality-control review, or peer review, of the auditing firm, (5) discussing the annual audited financial and quarterly statements with management and the independent auditor, (6) discussing earnings press releases, as well as financial information and earnings guidance provided to analysts and rating agencies, (7) discussing policies with respect to risk assessment and risk management, (8) meeting separately, periodically, with management, internal auditors and the independent auditor, (9) reviewing with the independent auditor any audit problems or difficulties and managements response, (10) setting clear hiring policies for employees or former employees of the independent
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auditors, (11) annually reviewing the adequacy of the audit committee's written charter, (12) reviewing with management any legal matters that may have a material impact on the company and (13) reporting regularly to the full board of directors.
Compensation Committee of Parent
We expect Parent's compensation committee to consist of Scott Sperling, Len Blavatnik, Thomas Lee, Seth Lawry, Mark Nunnelly, Jonathan Nelson and Ian Loring. The compensation committee's responsibilities will include, among other things, (1) reviewing key employee compensation policies, plans and programs, (2) reviewing and approving the compensation of our chief executive officer and other executive officers, (3) developing and recommending to the board of directors compensation for board members, (4) reviewing and approving employment contracts and other similar arrangements between us and our executive officers, (5) reviewing and consulting with the chief executive officer on the evaluation of executive performance and other related matters, (6) administration of stock plans and other incentive compensation plans, (7) overseeing compliance with any applicable compensation reporting requirements of the SEC, (8) reviewing and making recommendations to the board of directors regarding long-term incentive compensation or equity compensation plans and (9) retaining consultants to advise the committee on executive compensation practices and policies.
Executive, Governance and Nominating Committee of Parent
We expect Parent's executive, governance and nominating committee to consist of Scott Sperling, Edgar Bronfman Jr., Thomas Lee, Seth Lawry, Mark Nunnelly, Jonathan Nelson and Ian Loring. The executive, governance and nominating committee's responsibilities will include, among other things, (1) supporting the board of directors in performance of its duties and responsibilities with respect to strategic outcomes, management outcomes, including leadership and compensation, and actions between meetings of the board of directors, (2) reporting regularly to the full board of directors, (3) developing and recommending criteria for selecting new directors, (4) screening and recommending to the board of directors individuals qualified to become directors, (5) overseeing evaluations of the board of directors, its members and committees of the board of directors and (6) establishing criteria for and leading the annual performance self-evaluation of the board of directors and each committee.
The executive, governance and nominating committee is also expected to monitor compliance with our code of ethics that will cover all employees and executives and financial officers.
Compensation of Directors of Parent
Parent expects to establish directors' compensation practices that will be aligned with creating and sustaining member value. Our directors will be compensated in the manner established by Parent.
Management Equity Plan
Parent's board of directors has adopted executive compensation plans that link compensation with the performance of our company, including meeting specified cost-savings goals. Parent will continually review its executive compensation programs to ensure that they are competitive.
Long-Term Incentive Plan
Parent's board of directors recently approved the WMG Long-Term Incentive Plan. The plan provides for the granting to employees of incentive stock options. The plan permits such awards to any employee, director or consultant of Parent or any of its affiliates, or any other entity designated by Parent's board of directors in which Parent has an interest, who is selected by Parent's compensation committee to receive an award. Parent's compensation committee is expected to administer the plan. As of September 30, 2004, Parent had not granted any awards under the plan. Parent is in the process of granting stock options under the WMG Long-Term Incentive Plan to certain members of our management. Options generally will have a 10-year term and the exercise price will equal at least 100% of the fair market value on the date of the grant. The options vest based on years of continued service and other performance criteria.
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Executive Compensation
The following table sets forth the salaries and bonuses received by the five executive officers who received the highest salaries for their services to us in the ten month fiscal year ended September 30, 2004.
|
Compensation for the Ten Month Fiscal Year Ended September 30, 2004 |
Long Term Compensation |
|
|||||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Name and Principal Position |
Other Annual Compensation |
Restricted Stock Award |
Securities Underlying Options (# of shares) |
|||||||||||
Salary(1) |
Bonus(2) |
|||||||||||||
Edgar Bronfman Jr. Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer |
$ | 1,000,000 | $ | 5,250,000 | | | | |||||||
Paul-René Albertini Chairman and CEO, Warner Music International |
$ | 1,250,000 | $ | 3,150,000 | $ | 116,831 | (3) | | | |||||
Lyor Cohen Chairman and Chief Officer of U.S. Recorded Music |
$ | 1,000,000 | $ | 5,238,839 | | $ | 2,098,954 | | ||||||
Les Bider Chairman and CEO, Warner/Chappell Music, Inc. |
$ | 1,000,000 | $ | 1,440,000 | | | 262.345679 | |||||||
David H. Johnson Executive Vice President and General Counsel |
$ | 700,000 | $ | 1,036,500 | | | |
Stock Option Grants in Parent in the Ten Month Fiscal Year Ended September 30, 2004
Name |
Securities Underlying Options (# of shares) |
% of Total Options Granted to Employees in the Ten Months Ended September 30 |
Exercise Price per Share |
Expiration Date |
Grant Date Fair Value(1) |
|||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Les Bider | 262.345679 | 20 | % | $ | 1,000 | 9/30/14 | $ | 309,870 |
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Employment Agreements
Employment Agreement with Edgar Bronfman, Jr.
Mr. Bronfman is party to an employment agreement with Warner Music Group, which took effect on March 1, 2004, pursuant to which he serves as Warner Music Group's Chairman of the Board and CEO. The employment agreement expires on March 1, 2008 but is automatically extended for successive one-year terms unless either party gives written notice. The employment agreement provides that Mr. Bronfman is paid an annual base salary of at least $1,000,000, subject to discretionary increases from time to time by Warner Music Group's Board of Directors or compensation committee. Mr. Bronfman is also eligible to receive an annual cash bonus, with a target of 300% of his base salary and a maximum of up to 600% of his base salary. Mr. Bronfman is eligible to participate in a special bonus plan that may be implemented by Warner Music Group for senior management based upon costs savings attained in respect of Warner Music Group, its subsidiaries and affiliates.
In the event Warner Music Group terminates his employment agreement for any reason other than for cause or if Mr. Bronfman terminates his employment for good reason, as defined in the agreement, Mr. Bronfman will be entitled to severance benefits equal to: one year of his then-current base salary and target bonus; a pro-rated annual bonus; and continued participation in Warner Music Group's group health and life insurance plans for up to one year after termination.
The employment agreement also contains standard covenants relating to confidentiality and assignment of intellectual property rights and one year post employment non-solicitation and non-competition covenants.
Warner Music Group sold to Mr. Bronfman (for fair market value) 2,884 shares of Class A Common Stock of Parent, which as of December 31, 2004, represents 2.8% of the aggregate ownership of the Class A and Class L Common Stock of Parent without taking into account the conversion of the warrants issued to Time Warner into Class A Common Stock or the exercise of any outstanding options. The restricted stock agreement provides that one-third of the restricted shares vest based on years of service and the remainder vests based on years of service and performance. The vested restricted stock may also be purchased by Parent upon termination of employment. Such stock is subject to provisions regarding vesting, forfeiture and repurchase contained in that agreement and is also subject to the stockholders agreement described under "Certain Relationships and Related Party Transactions."
APPAC, a minority shareholder group of Vivendi Universal, initiated an inquiry, which under French law is both civil and criminal, into various issues relating to Vivendi, including Vivendi's financial disclosures and the appropriateness of compensation received by the former CEO, Jean-Marie Messier. The inquiry has also been extended to cover compensation received by Mr. Bronfman. While the scope and targets of this inquiry are not public, the president of APPAC has publicly announced that he is seeking to have Mr. Bronfman repay to Vivendi compensation he received while affiliated with Vivendi. The outcome of such inquiry or of any subsequent proceeding with respect to Mr. Bronfman is uncertain at this time. Mr. Bronfman believes that all compensation paid to him by Vivendi was properly received and that the claims raised by APPAC are without merit.
Employment Agreement with Paul-René Albertini
Warner Music International Services Limited entered into an employment agreement with Paul-René Albertini under which Mr. Albertini serves as Warner Music International's President. He has recently been promoted to Chairman and CEO. On March 1, 2004, Warner Music Group assumed Mr. Albertini's employment agreement.
The employment agreement, as amended on October 21, 2004, provides for a term ending on December 31, 2008. Under the terms of the employment agreement, Mr. Albertini is paid an annual
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base salary of $1,250,000 for 2004, and $1,500,000 for 2005 through 2008. Mr. Albertini is also eligible to receive an annual cash bonus of at least $1,000,000 with respect to 2004 and 2005, and discretionary bonuses with respect to 2006 through 2008, with the target amount of each such bonus being $2,000,000. Under the agreement, Mr. Albertini is guaranteed as least $10,250,000 in salary and bonus for the years 2003 through 2005.
Warner Music International may terminate Mr. Albertini's employment without notice on or before December 31, 2005, and pay him a lump sum comprised of: the gross salary due for the balance of the term, the bonus payments due for the balance of the term which shall be at least $1,500,000 per year, a payment in lieu of employment benefits he would have received through the remainder of the term of his agreement, and 50% of the sum of his then-current base salary and the previous year's bonus payment. If such termination occurs after December 31, 2005, the payments to Mr. Albertini will be comprised of: the gross salary due for the balance of the term, and a bonus for each year remaining in the term (including the year in which such termination occurs) each in the amount of $2,000,000; provided that the total of such amounts shall not be greater than $7,000,000 or less than $1,750,000.
The employment agreement also contains standard covenants relating to confidentiality, assignment of intellectual property rights, non-competition and non-solicitation.
Mr. Albertini purchased 212 shares of Class A Common Stock of Parent, which as of December 31, 2004, represents less than 1% of the aggregate ownership of the Class A and Class L Common Stock of Parent without taking into account the conversion of the warrants issued to Time Warner into Class A Common Stock or the exercise of any outstanding options. The restricted stock agreement provides that one-third of the restricted shares vest based on years of service and the remainder vests based on years of service and performance. The vested restricted stock may also be purchased by Parent upon termination of employment. Such stock is also subject to the stockholders agreement described under "Certain Relationships and Related Party Transactions."
Mr. Albertini also has a stock option agreement with Parent whereby he has an option to purchase 523 shares of Class A Common Stock of Parent at a price of $1,179 per share, subject to adjustments. The option is exercisable based on length of service and on performance and expires in 2014.
Employment Agreement with Lyor Cohen
Warner Music Group entered into an employment agreement with Lyor Cohen on January 25, 2004 under which Mr. Cohen serves as Chairman and CEO of U.S. Recorded Music. The employment agreement provides for a four-year term beginning on March 1, 2004, but the term is automatically extended for successive one-year terms unless either party gives written notice to the contrary at least 90 days prior to the expiration of the current term. Under the terms of the employment agreement, Mr. Cohen is paid a salary equal to $1,000,000 for the first year of his employment with Warner Music Group, and thereafter, will be paid an annual base salary of at least $1,500,000, subject to discretionary increases from time to time by Warner Music Group's Board of Directors or compensation committee. Mr. Cohen is also eligible to receive an annual cash bonus, with a target of $2.5 million and a maximum of $5 million. Mr. Cohen is eligible to participate in a special bonus plan that may be implemented by Warner Music Group for senior management based upon costs savings attained in respect of the U.S. Recorded Music business and Warner Music Group. In the event of a change of control of Parent or certain other events and subject to certain conditions, Mr. Cohen will receive a one-time cash bonus of up to $10,000,000 depending on the amount of cash consideration received by the Investors. In the event Warner Music Group terminates the employment agreement for any reason other than cause or if Mr. Cohen terminates his employment for good reason, as defined in the agreement, Mr. Cohen will be entitled to severance benefits equal to: one year of his then-current base salary and target bonus; a pro-rated annual bonus; and continued participation in Warner Music Group's group health and life insurance plans for up to one year after termination.
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The employment agreement also contains standard covenants relating to confidentiality, assignment of intellectual property rights and six month post employment non-solicitation covenants.
Warner Music Group also agreed to pay Mr. Cohen a starting bonus equal to the greater of $1,000,000 or 59% of the fair market value, as of March 1, 2004, of one share of Class A Common Stock of Parent. Warner Music Group granted to Mr. Cohen 2,099 shares of Class A Common Stock of Parent, which as of December 31, 2004, represents 2.1% of the aggregate ownership of the Class A and Class L Common Stock of Parent without taking into account the conversion of the warrants issued to Time Warner into Class A Common Stock or the exercise of any outstanding options. The restricted stock agreement provides that one-third of the restricted shares vest based on years of service and the remainder vests based on years of service and performance. The vested restricted stock may also be purchased by Parent upon termination of employment. Such stock is also subject to the stockholders agreement described under "Certain Relationships and Related Party Transactions."
Employment Agreement with Les Bider
Warner Music Group Inc. entered into an employment agreement with Les Bider under which Mr. Bider serves as Chairman and CEO of Warner/Chappell Music, Inc. On March 1, 2004, Warner Music Group assumed Mr. Bider's employment agreement.
The employment agreement terminates on December 31, 2005. Under the terms of the employment agreement, Mr. Bider is paid an annual base salary of $1,000,000. Mr. Bider is also eligible to receive a target annual cash bonus of $1,000,000. In addition, Warner Music Group Inc. agreed to provide Mr. Bider with employee benefits comparable to those provided to other senior executives of Warner/Chappell Music, Inc.
The employment agreement also contains standard covenants relating to confidentiality.
Mr. Bider also has a stock option agreement with Parent whereby he has an option to purchase 262 shares of Class A Common Stock of Parent at a price of $1,000 per share, subject to adjustments. The option is exercisable based on length of service and on performance, and expires in 2014.
Employment Agreement with Michael D. Fleisher
Warner Music Group entered into an employment agreement with Michael D. Fleisher on December 21, 2004 under which Mr. Fleisher serves as Executive Vice President and CFO of Warner Music Group Inc. The employment agreement provides for a four-year term beginning on January 1, 2005. Under the terms of the employment agreement, Mr. Fleisher is paid a salary equal to $800,000. Mr. Fleisher is also eligible to receive an annual cash bonus, with a target of $800,000; provided that Mr. Fleisher's bonus with respect to 2005 shall not be less than $800,000. In the event Warner Music Group terminates the employment agreement for any reason other than cause or if Mr. Fleisher terminates his employment for good reason, as defined in the agreement, Mr. Fleisher will be entitled to severance benefits equal to: one year of his then-current base salary and target bonus; a pro-rated annual bonus; and continued participation in Warner Music Group's group health and life insurance plans for up to one year after termination. The employment agreement also contains standard covenants relating to confidentiality, assignment of intellectual property rights and six month post employment non-solicitation covenants. Mr. Fleisher purchased 787 shares of Class A Common Stock of Parent, which as of December 31, 2004, represents less than 1% of the aggregate ownership of the Class A and Class L Common Stock of Parent without taking into account the conversion of the warrants issued to Time Warner into Class A Common Stock or the exercise of any outstanding options. The restricted stock agreement provides that one-third of the restricted shares vest based on years of service and the remainder vests based on years of service and performance. The vested restricted stock may also be purchased by Parent upon termination of employment. Such stock is also
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subject to the stockholders agreement described under "Certain Relationships and Related Party Transactions."
Employment Agreement with David H. Johnson
Warner Music Group Inc. entered into an employment agreement with David H. Johnson under which Mr. Johnson serves as Executive Vice President and General Counsel of Warner Music Group Inc. On March 1, 2004, Warner Music Group assumed Mr. Johnson's employment agreement.
The employment agreement terminates on June 29, 2007. Under the terms of the employment agreement, Mr. Johnson is paid an annual base salary of $700,000. Mr. Johnson is also eligible to receive an annual cash bonus equal to the greater of his annual target bonus, as defined in the agreement, or the average of his bonuses for 2002 and 2003.
In the event Warner Music Group Inc. terminates the employment agreement for any reason other than for cause or if Mr. Johnson terminates his employment for good reason, as defined in the agreement, Mr. Johnson will be entitled to severance benefits equal to a lump sum payment of two times his annual base salary and a minimum bonus as defined in the agreement.
The employment agreement also contains standard covenants relating to confidentiality.
Mr. Johnson purchased 105 shares of Class A Common Stock of Parent, which as of December 31, 2004, represents less than 1% of the aggregate ownership of the Class A and Class L Common Stock of Parent without taking into account the conversion of the warrants issued to Time Warner into Class A Common Stock or the exercise of any outstanding options. The restricted stock agreement provides that one-third of the restricted shares vest based on years of service and the remainder vests based on years of service and performance. The vested restricted stock may also be purchased by Parent upon termination of employment. Such stock is also subject to the stockholders agreement described under "Certain Relationships and Related Party Transactions."
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SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT
Parent owns 100% of the common stock of Holdings, which owns 100% of our capital stock.
The following table sets forth information as of February 4, 2004 with respect to the ownership of the common stock of Parent by:
Notwithstanding the beneficial ownership of common stock presented below, a stockholders agreement governs the stockholders' exercise of their voting rights with respect to election of directors and certain other material events. The parties to the stockholders' agreement have agreed to vote their shares to elect the board of directors as set forth therein. See "Certain Relationships and Related Party TransactionsStockholders Agreement."
The amounts and percentages of shares beneficially owned are reported on the basis of SEC regulations governing the determination of beneficial ownership of securities. Under SEC rules, a person is deemed to be a "beneficial owner" of a security if that person has or shares voting power or investment power, which includes the power to dispose of or to direct the disposition of such security. A person is also deemed to be a beneficial owner of any securities of which that person has a right to acquire beneficial ownership within 60 days. Securities that can be so acquired are deemed to be outstanding for purposes of computing such person's ownership percentage, but not for purposes of computing any other person's percentage. Under these rules, more than one person may be deemed to be a beneficial owner of the same securities and a person may be deemed to be a beneficial owner of securities as to which such person has no economic interest.
Except as otherwise indicated in these footnotes, each of the beneficial owners listed has, to our knowledge, sole voting and investment power with respect to the indicated shares of common stock. Unless otherwise indicated, the address for each individual listed below is Warner Music Group, c/o Warner Music Group Inc., 75 Rockefeller Plaza, New York, New York 10019.
|
Shares of Common Stock |
|
|||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Name and address of beneficial owner |
Percent of Common Stock(1) |
||||||
Class A |
Class L |
||||||
Thomas H. Lee Funds(2) c/o Thomas H. Lee Partners, L.P. 75 State Street, Suite 2600 Boston, MA 02109 |
44,540 | 4,949 | 49.7 | % | |||
Music Capital Partners, L.P.(3) c/o Lexa Partners LLC 390 Park Avenue New York, NY 10022 |
11,220 | 1,247 | 12.3 | % | |||
Bain Capital Funds(4) c/o Bain Capital, LLC 111 Huntington Avenue Boston, MA 02199 |
19,040 | 2,116 | 20.8 | % | |||
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Providence Equity Partners Inc.(5) 50 Kennedy Plaza 18th Floor Providence, RI 02903 |
10,200 | 1,133 | 11.2 | % | |||
Edgar Bronfman, Jr.(3) | 2,884 | | 2.8 | % | |||
Len Blavatnik | | | | ||||
Charles A. Brizius(6) | | | | ||||
John P. Connaughton(7) | | | | ||||
Scott L. Jaeckel(6) | | | | ||||
Seth W. Lawry(6) | | | | ||||
Thomas H. Lee(6) | | | | ||||
Ian Loring(7) | | | | ||||
Jonathan N. Nelson(5) | | | | ||||
Mark Nunnelly(7) | | | | ||||
Scott M. Sperling(6) | | | | ||||
Lyor Cohen | 2,099 | | 2.1 | % | |||
Paul-René Albertini | 212 | | * | ||||
Les Bider | | | | ||||
Michael D. Fleisher | 787 | | * | ||||
Michael Ward(7) | | | | ||||
David H. Johnson | 105 | | * | ||||
All directors and executive officers as a group ((16) members) | 6,087 | | 6.0 | % | |||
Total | 91,087 | 9,445 | 99.0 | % | |||
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ownership of such shares. Each of the Bain Capital Funds has an address c/o Bain Capital, LLC, 111 Huntington Avenue, Boston, Massachusetts 02199.
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CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS
Ancillary Agreements to the Stock Purchase Agreement
In addition to the purchase agreement described under "The Transactions," we have entered into the following ancillary agreements in connection with the Acquisition.
Stockholders Agreement
Parent has entered into a stockholders agreement with Warner Music Group, Holdings, the Investors, Time Warner and certain of our executive officers and directors. The stockholders agreement provides that Parent's board of directors consist of thirteen members, with five directors appointed by THL, three directors appointed by Bain Capital, one director appointed by Providence Equity, one director appointed by Music Capital (THL, Bain Capital and Providence Equity, each a "Principal Investor Group"), one director who will at all times be the Chief Executive Officer and who will initially be Edgar Bronfman, Jr., and two independent directors to be chosen unanimously by the vote of Parent's board. The number of directors that an Investor may appoint will be reduced if that Investor's investment in us falls below certain dollar thresholds outlined in the stockholders agreement. In case of such a reduction, the number of our total directors will be accordingly reduced. Each Investor's director designee(s) may only be removed by the Investor that appointed such designee(s). The stockholders agreement requires that the board of directors of both Holdings and Warner Music Group consist of the same members as the board of directors of Parent. Pursuant to the stockholders agreement the board of directors of Parent must have an Executive Committee, an Audit Committee and a Compensation Committee and, at its discretion, a Governance Committee.
The following actions require both (a) the approval of a majority of the entire board of directors of Parent and (b) the approval of the largest Principal Investor Group (determined by the Principal Investor Groups' relative investments in us) and one other Principal Investor Group (the "Requisite Stockholder Majority"): (i) effecting a change of control transaction; (ii) incurring indebtedness or guaranteeing or otherwise assuming certain obligations in excess of $100,000,000; (iii) selling, leasing, exchanging or otherwise disposing of assets in excess of $100,000,000; (iv) purchasing, renting, licensing, exchanging or otherwise acquiring assets having a fair market value in excess of $50,000,000; (v) effecting a merger or consolidation where the assets subject to such merger or consolidation have a value in excess of $50,000,000; (vi) registering securities under the Securities Act; and (vii) hiring or removing the Chief Executive Officer. Approval of a majority of the entire board of directors is required for approval or amendment of the annual operating budget.
The stockholders agreement prohibits the parties from transferring any of their stock except for transfers (i) to an affiliate of the stockholder, (ii) after an initial public offering, (x) to partners, members or stockholders of the stockholder, (y) in connection with certain sales under Rule 144 of the Securities Act or (z) to a charitable organization or (iii) made in connection with a public offering. In addition, Music Capital may transfer its stock to ALP Music Partners, L.P., its limited partner, after the occurrence of certain events outlined in the stockholders agreement. The agreement also prohibits the parties from transferring stock to any of our competitors without the approval of our entire board of directors and the Requisite Stockholder Majority. These transfer restrictions terminate upon a change of control.
The Requisite Stockholder Majority has the right to require all other parties to the agreement to sell the same percentage of their stock to a buyer in a change of control transaction as is being sold to such buyer by the membership of the Requisite Stockholder Majority. A member of a Principal Investor Group (or any affiliate thereof) that is also part of the Requisite Stockholder Majority exercising the foregoing right may not be a buyer in such a change of control transaction unless the transaction is approved by each of the Investors.
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The agreement also provides that if any of Parent's stockholders propose to sell its stock in certain private transfers, that stockholder must notify each Investor, Time Warner (if it holds any shares of stock in Parent at such time) and their permitted transferees (the "First Offer Holders") of the terms of the sale. The First Offer Holders will then have the right to offer to buy the selling stockholder's stock on the terms given in the notice. The selling stockholder will then have the option to accept or reject the First Offer Holders' offer. Depending on whether the First Offer Holders propose to purchase all, or only a portion of, the selling stockholder's stock or whether a third-party buyer is unwilling to purchase less than all of the stock offered by the selling stockholder, the selling stockholder may have the right to sell its stock to a third party at a price per share that is no less than that specified in the notice.
The stockholders agreement provides that if one of Parent's stockholders offers to sell any of its stock to a prospective buyer, Parent's other stockholders have the right to sell their shares to that prospective buyer, subject to certain cutbacks, including a pro rata cutback in which the stockholder may only sell a pro rata portion of its shares. Time Warner is also entitled to receive notice of any such sale and to exercise its warrants and participate in the sale.
Subject to certain exclusions, if Parent or any of its subsidiaries issue shares of our capital stock or securities convertible into Warner Music Group's capital stock, Parent's stockholders will have the right to purchase a portion of such shares or securities, the stockholders agreement gives any member of the Investors and Time Warner the right to require us to register the stock held by such stockholders for sale to the public under the Securities Act, provided that (i) the value of the securities sold to the public by the registering shareholders is at least $20,000,000 and (ii) if the registration is our initial public offering, the registration is approved by a majority of Warner Music Group's board of directors and the Requisite Stockholder Majority. In connection with each underwritten public offering, Parent's stockholders will be required to enter into a lockup agreement covering a period of no greater than 90 days (180 days for an initial public offering). The agreement also provides that if Parent registers shares of Parent's common stock for sale to the public, Parent's stockholders will have the right to have their shares included in the registration statement. Such registrations are subject to a potential underwriter's cutback in the number of shares to be registered if the underwriter determines that marketing factors require a limitation on the number of shares to be underwritten.
Seller Administrative Services Agreement
In connection with the Acquisition, Warner Music Group entered into a seller administrative services agreement with Time Warner whereby Time Warner agreed to provide us with certain administrative services, including (i) accounting services, (ii) tax services, (iii) human resources and benefits services, (iv) information technology services, (v) legal services, (vi) treasury services, (vii) payroll services, (viii) travel services, (ix) real estate management services and (x) messenger services. The obligation for Time Warner to provide these services generally (with some exceptions) terminated on December 31, 2004. In addition, Warner Music Group may terminate the services, generally upon 30 days' notice to Time Warner. Time Warner may terminate most of the services upon 180 days' notice to Warner Music Group with respect to any service category that Time Warner ceases to provide to its subsidiaries, divisions and business units. Time Warner bills Warner Music Group monthly for the services. The amount paid for these services is generally not fixed, but rather is based on the costs of Time Warner in providing the administrative services, including Time Warner's employee costs and out-of-pocket expenses. In addition, Warner Music Group has agreed to indemnify Time Warner, its affiliates, partners, officers, employees, agents and permitted assigns for losses relating to the services contemplated by the seller administrative services agreement. Time Warner has agreed to indemnify Warner Music Group for losses arising out of its breach of the agreement or Time Warner's gross negligence or willful misconduct.
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On July 1, 2004, Warner Music Group and Time Warner amended the seller administrative services agreement so that Time Warner will provide DX Online Services, a web-based solution designed to manage small package shipping, to us. Time Warner's obligation to provide DX Online Services will expire December 31, 2004, subject to an automatic renewal after that date on a monthly basis. After December 31, 2004, either Time Warner or Warner Music Group may terminate by providing 30 days' notice. Generally, Warner Music Group pays $5,500 per month for such services.
Purchaser Administrative Services Agreement
In connection with the Acquisition, Warner Music Group entered into a purchaser administrative services agreement with Time Warner whereby Warner Music Group agreed to provide Time Warner with certain administrative services including (i) financial and accounting advisory services, (ii) information technology services, (iii) real estate services and (iv) distribution services in certain countries outside the U.S. Warner Music Group's obligation to provide these services generally (with one exception) terminated on December 31, 2004. Warner Music Group previously billed Time Warner monthly for the services. The amount paid for these services was generally not fixed, but rather, was based on Warner Music Group's costs in providing the administrative services, including our employee costs and out-of-pocket expenses. In addition, Time Warner has agreed to indemnify Warner Music Group, our affiliates, partners, officers, employees, agents and permitted assigns for losses relating to the services contemplated by the purchaser administrative services agreement. Warner Music Group has agreed to indemnify Time Warner for losses arising out of our breach of the agreement or our gross negligence or willful misconduct.
Management/Monitoring Agreement
Warner Music Group entered into a management agreement with Parent, Holdings and the Investors. Pursuant to this agreement, Parent, Holdings and Warner Music Group paid an aggregate of $75 million to the Investors in consideration for their services in connection with the Acquisition. Although the Company has not conducted a formal analysis as to the arm's-length nature of such fee, the Company believes that the amount of such fee is representative of, or comparable to, such fees paid in similar transactions.
In consideration for ongoing consulting and management advisory services, the management agreement requires Parent to pay (or to cause Holdings or Warner Music Group to pay) the Investors an aggregate annual fee of $10 million per year, which is payable quarterly in advance. This annual fee has been prepaid in its entirety through February 2005. In the case of future services provided in connection with any future acquisition, disposition, or financing transactions involving Warner Music Group, Parent or Holdings, the management agreement requires Parent to pay (or to cause Holdings or Warner Music Group to pay) the Investors an aggregate fee of one percent of the gross transaction value of each such transaction. The agreement also requires Warner Music Group, Parent and Holdings to pay the reasonable expenses of the Investors in connection with, and indemnify them for liabilities arising from, the management agreement, the Acquisition and any related transactions, their equity investment in Warner Music Group, Parent or Holdings, our operations, and the services they provide to Warner Music Group, Parent and Holdings. Subject to certain early termination provisions, the management agreement terminates on December 30, 2014.
Other Arrangements with Investors
Employees of the Investors have from time to time filled management roles on an interim basis while we have been transitioning to a permanent management team. For example, the position of Chief Financial Officer has been filled by an employee of one of the Investors since the beginning of June 2004. Such employees have not received any compensation from us for such services. However, a representative cost for such services in the aggregate amount of $280,000 has been charged to the
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statement of operations for the seven months ended September 30, 2004 with a corresponding increase in additional paid-in capital.
Cumulative Preferred Stock
Holdings is authorized to issue 150,000 shares of Cumulative Preferred Stock, par value $0.001 per share ("Preferred Stock"), with a liquidation preference of $10,000. 20,000 shares of Preferred Stock, which rank senior to our common stock with respect to the right to receive dividends and to receive distributions upon the liquidation, dissolution and winding up of Holdings, were issued to the Investors in connection with the Acquisition. These shares were all redeemed in full in connection with the Holdings' Payment to Investors.
Return of Capital
We returned an additional $350 million of capital to the Investors. The Return of Capital on September 30, 2004 consisted of a dividend of $8 million paid on the preferred equity securities of Holdings held by the Investors and notes payable of $342 million by Parent to the Investors. The notes payable were paid in full in October 2004. The Return of Capital was funded out of our excess cash balance and not from the incurrence of additional debt. We obtained an amendment to our credit agreement to provide for this Return of Capital.
Payment to Investors
On December 23, 2004, Holdings incurred approximately $700 million Holdings Notes. The proceeds from the issuance of the Holdings Notes were used to fund a return of approximately $680 million from Holdings to its shareholders and the shareholders of Parent through a combination of dividends on Holdings' common stock and preferred stock and repurchases of its common stock and preferred stock. Of the total of $680 million, approximately $631 million was distributed to the Investors with the remainder being held by Parent.
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DESCRIPTION OF OTHER INDEBTEDNESS
Senior Secured Credit Facility
Overview
In connection with the Transactions, we entered into a senior secured credit facility with Banc of America Securities LLC, as joint lead arranger and joint book manager, Bank of America, N.A., as administrative agent, Deutsche Bank Securities Inc., as joint lead arranger, joint book manager and co-syndication agent, Lehman Brothers Inc., as co-arranger and co-book manager, Lehman Commercial Paper Inc., as co-syndication agent, and Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith Incorporated as co-arranger, co-book manager and documentation agent.
The senior secured credit facility provides senior secured financing of $1.45 billion, consisting of:
Upon the occurrence of certain events, we may request an increase to the existing revolving credit facility in an amount not to exceed $100 million, subject to receipt of commitments by existing revolving lenders or other financial institutions reasonably acceptable to the administrative agent.
We are the borrower for the term loan facility. We are also a borrower under the revolving credit facility, and certain of our non-U.S. subsidiaries may be designated as additional borrowers under the revolving credit facility. A portion of the revolving credit facility up to an aggregate not to exceed the equivalent of $150 million may be made available in euros, pounds sterling and yen. The revolving credit facility includes borrowing capacity available for letters of credit and for borrowings on same-day notice, referred to as the swingline loans.
On December 6, 2004, we amended our senior secured credit facility to make certain changes. In particular, the changes:
Interest Rate and Fees
Borrowings under the senior secured credit facility bear interest at a rate equal to an applicable margin plus, at our option, either (a) a base rate determined by reference to the higher of (1) the prime rate of Bank of America, N.A. and (2) the federal funds rate plus 1/2 of 1% or (b) a LIBOR rate determined by reference to the costs of funds for deposits in the currency of such borrowing for the interest period relevant to such borrowing adjusted for certain additional costs. The current applicable margin for borrowings under the revolving credit facility and the term loan facility is 1.75% with respect to base rate borrowings and 2.75% with respect to LIBOR borrowings. The applicable margin for borrowings under both the revolving credit facility and term loan facility may be reduced subject to our attaining certain leverage ratios.
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In addition to paying interest on outstanding principal under the senior secured credit facility, we are required to pay a commitment fee to the lenders under the revolving credit facility in respect of the unutilized commitments thereunder. The current commitment fee rate is 0.50% per annum. The commitment fee rate may be reduced subject to our attaining certain leverage ratios. We must also pay customary letter of credit fees.
Prepayments
The senior secured credit facility requires us to prepay outstanding term loans, subject to certain exceptions, with:
The foregoing mandatory prepayments will be applied to the next four installments of the term loan facility then due and then to the remaining installments of the term loan facility on a pro rata basis.
We may voluntarily repay outstanding loans under the senior secured credit facility at any time without premium or penalty, other than customary "breakage" costs with respect to LIBOR loans.
Amortization
We are required to repay installments on the loans under the term loan facility in quarterly principal amounts of 0.25% of their funded total principal amount for the first six years and nine months, with the remaining amount payable on February 28, 2011.
Principal amounts outstanding under the revolving credit facility are due and payable in full at maturity, on February 28, 2010.
Guarantee and Security
All obligations under the senior secured credit facility are unconditionally guaranteed by Holdings and, subject to certain exceptions, each of our existing and future domestic wholly owned subsidiaries, referred to collectively as U.S. Guarantors. In addition, the borrowings of our foreign subsidiary borrowers under the senior secured credit facility are unconditionally guaranteed by Holdings, us and, subject to certain exceptions, each of our existing and future domestic wholly owned subsidiaries and, to the extent legally permitted (referred to as the foreign guarantees), by certain of our foreign subsidiaries.
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All obligations under the senior secured credit facility and the guarantees of those obligations are secured by substantially all the assets of Holdings, us and each U.S. Guarantor, including, but not limited to, the following, and subject to certain exceptions:
In addition, the obligations of any foreign subsidiary borrowers under the senior secured credit facility, and the foreign guarantees of such obligations, are, subject to certain exceptions, secured by the following:
Certain Covenants and Events of Default
The senior secured credit facility contains a number of covenants that, among other things, restrict, subject to certain exceptions, our ability, and the ability of Holdings and its subsidiaries, to:
In addition, the senior secured credit facility requires us to maintain the following financial covenants:
The senior secured credit facility also contains certain customary affirmative covenants and events of default.
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General
Warner Music Group hereby offers to exchange a like principal amount of exchange notes for any or all outstanding notes on the terms and subject to the conditions set forth in this prospectus and accompanying letter of transmittal. We refer to the offers as the "exchange offers." You may tender some or all of your outstanding notes pursuant to the exchange offers.
As of the date of this prospectus, $465,000,000 aggregate principal amount of the outstanding dollar notes is outstanding, and £100,000,000 of the outstanding sterling notes is outstanding. This prospectus, together with the letter of transmittal, is first being sent to all holders of outstanding notes known to us on or about February 10, 2005. Warner Music Group's obligation to accept outstanding notes for exchange pursuant to the exchange offers is subject to certain conditions set forth under "Conditions to the Exchange Offers" below. Warner Music Group currently expects that each of the conditions will be satisfied and that no waivers will be necessary.
Purpose and Effect of the Exchange Offers
We entered into a registration rights agreement with the initial purchasers of the outstanding notes in which we agreed, under certain circumstances, to file a registration statement relating to an offer to exchange the outstanding notes for exchange notes. We also agreed to use our reasonable best efforts to cause this registration statement to be declared effective and to cause the exchange offers to be consummated within 360 days after the issue date of the outstanding notes. The exchange notes will have terms substantially identical to the terms of the outstanding notes, except that the exchange notes will not contain terms with respect to transfer restrictions or additional interest upon a failure to fulfill certain of our obligations under the registration rights agreement. The outstanding notes were issued on April 8, 2004.
Under the circumstances set forth below, we will use our reasonable best efforts to cause the SEC to declare effective a shelf registration statement with respect to the resale of the outstanding notes within the time periods specified in the registration rights agreement and to keep the shelf registration statement effective for two years or such shorter period ending when all outstanding notes or exchange notes covered by the statement have been sold in the manner set forth and as contemplated in the statement or to the extent that the applicable provisions of Rule 144(k) under the Securities Act are amended or revised. These circumstances include:
If we fail to comply with certain obligations under the registration rights agreement, we will be required to pay additional interest to holders of the outstanding notes and the exchange notes required to be registered on a shelf registration statement. Please read the section "Exchange Offers; Registration Rights" for more details regarding the registration rights agreement.
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Each holder of outstanding notes that wishes to exchange their outstanding notes for exchange notes in the exchange offers will be required to make the following written representations:
Each broker-dealer that receives exchange notes for its own account in exchange for outstanding notes, where the broker-dealer acquired the outstanding notes as a result of market-making activities or other trading activities, must acknowledge that it will deliver a prospectus in connection with any resale of such exchange notes. Please see "Plan of Distribution".
Resale of Exchange Notes
Based on interpretations by the staff of the SEC as set forth in no-action letters issued to third parties referred to below, we believe that you may resell or otherwise transfer exchange notes issued in the exchange offers without complying with the registration and prospectus delivery provisions of the Securities Act, if:
If you are an affiliate of Warner Music Group, or are engaging in, or intend to engage in, or have any arrangement or understanding with any person to participate in, a distribution of the exchange notes, or are not acquiring the exchange notes in the ordinary course of your business, then:
This prospectus may be used for an offer to resell, for the resale or for other retransfer of exchange notes only as specifically set forth in this prospectus. With regard to broker-dealers, only broker-dealers that acquired the outstanding notes as a result of market-making activities or other trading activities may participate in the exchange offers. Each broker-dealer that receives exchange notes for its own account in exchange for outstanding notes where such outstanding notes were acquired by such broker-dealer as a result of market-making activities or other trading activities must acknowledge that it will deliver a prospectus in connection with any resale of the exchange notes. Please read "Plan of Distribution" for more details regarding the transfer of exchange notes.
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Terms of the Exchange Offers
On the terms and subject to the conditions set forth in this prospectus and in the accompanying letter of transmittal, we will accept for exchange in the exchange offers outstanding notes that are validly tendered and not validly withdrawn prior to the expiration date. Outstanding dollar notes may only be tendered in denominations of $5,000 and integral multiples of $1,000, and outstanding sterling notes may only be tendered in denominations of £5,000 and integral multiples of £1,000. We will issue $5,000 principal amount or an integral multiple of $1,000, in the case of exchange dollar notes, and £5,000 principal amount or an integral multiple of £1,000, in the case of exchange sterling notes, in exchange for a corresponding principal amount of outstanding dollar or sterling notes, respectively, surrendered in the exchange offers.
The form and terms of the exchange notes will be substantially identical to the form and terms of the outstanding notes, except that the exchange notes will not contain terms with respect to transfer restrictions or additional interest upon a failure to fulfill certain of our obligations under the registration rights agreement. The exchange notes will evidence the same debt as the outstanding notes. The exchange notes will be issued under and entitled to the benefits of the same indenture under which the outstanding notes were issued, and the exchange notes and the outstanding notes will constitute a single class and series of notes for all purposes under the indenture. For a description of the indenture, please see "Description of the Notes".
The exchange offers are not conditioned upon any minimum aggregate principal amount of outstanding notes being tendered for exchange.
As of the date of this prospectus, $465,000,000 aggregate principal amount of the outstanding dollar notes is outstanding, and £100,000,000 aggregate principal amount of the outstanding sterling notes is outstanding. This prospectus and a letter of transmittal are being sent to all registered holders of outstanding notes. There will be no fixed record date for determining registered holders of outstanding notes entitled to participate in the exchange offers.
We intend to conduct the exchange offers in accordance with the provisions of the registration rights agreement, the applicable requirements of the Securities Act and the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the "Exchange Act"), and the rules and regulations of the SEC. Outstanding notes that are not tendered for exchange in the exchange offers will remain outstanding and continue to accrue interest and will be entitled to the rights and benefits that such holders have under the indenture relating to such holders' outstanding notes, except for any rights under the registration rights agreement that by their terms terminate upon the consummation of the exchange offers.
We will be deemed to have accepted for exchange properly tendered outstanding notes when we have given oral or written notice of the acceptance to the exchange agent. The exchange agent will act as agent for the tendering holders for the purposes of receiving the exchange notes from us and delivering exchange notes to holders. Subject to the terms of the registration rights agreement, we expressly reserve the right to amend or terminate the exchange offers and to refuse to accept the occurrence of any of the conditions specified below under "Conditions to the Exchange Offers".
Holders who tender outstanding notes in the exchange offers will not be required to pay brokerage commissions or fees or, subject to the instructions in the letter of transmittal, transfer taxes with respect to the exchange of outstanding notes. We will pay all charges and expenses, other than certain applicable taxes described below, in connection with the exchange offers. It is important that you read "Fees and Expenses" below for more details regarding fees and expenses incurred in the exchange offers.
Expiration Date; Extensions, Amendments
As used in this prospectus, the term "expiration date" means 12:00 a.m. midnight, New York City time, on March 15, 2005. However, if we, in our sole discretion, extend the period of time for which
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the exchange offers are open, the term "expiration date" will mean the latest time and date to which we shall have extended the expiration of the exchange offers.
To extend the period of time during which the exchange offers are open, we will notify the exchange agent of any extension by oral or written notice, followed by notification to the registered holders of the outstanding notes no later than 9:00 a.m., New York City time, on the business day after the previously scheduled expiration date.
We reserve the right, in our sole discretion:
Any delay in acceptance, extension, termination or amendment will be followed as promptly as practicable by oral or written notice to the registered holders of the outstanding notes. If we amend the exchange offers in a manner that we determine to constitute a material change, including the waiver of a material condition, we will promptly disclose the amendment by press release or other public announcement as required by Rule 14e-1(d) of the Exchange Act and will extend the offer period if necessary so that at least five business days remain in the offer following notice of the material change.
Conditions to the Exchange Offers
Despite any other term of the exchange offers, we will not be required to accept for exchange, or to issue exchange notes in exchange for, any outstanding notes, and we may terminate or amend the exchange offers as provided in this prospectus before accepting any outstanding notes for exchange, if:
In addition, we will not be obligated to accept for exchange the outstanding notes of any holder that has not made to us:
We expressly reserve the right at any time or at various times to extend the period of time during which the exchange offers are open. Consequently, we may delay acceptance of any outstanding notes by notice by press release or other public announcement as required by Rule 14e-1(d) of the Act of
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such extension to their holders. During any such extensions, all outstanding notes previously tendered will remain subject to the exchange offers, and we may accept them for exchange. We will return any outstanding notes that we do not accept for exchange for any reason without expense to their tendering holder as promptly after the expiration or termination of the exchange offers.
We expressly reserve the right to amend or terminate the exchange offers and to reject for exchange any outstanding notes not previously accepted for exchange upon the occurrence of any of the conditions of the exchange offers specified above. We will give notice by press release or other public announcement as required by Rule 14e-1(d) of the Act of any extension, amendment, non-acceptance or termination to the holders of the outstanding notes as promptly. In the case of any extension, such notice will be issued no later than 9:00 a.m., New York City time, on the business day after the previously scheduled expiration date.
These conditions are for our sole benefit, and we may assert them regardless of the circumstances that may give rise to them so long as such circumstances do not arise due to our action or inaction or waive them in whole or in part at any or at various times in our sole discretion. If we fail at any time to exercise any of the foregoing rights, this failure will not constitute a waiver of such right. Each such right will be deemed an ongoing right that we may assert at any time or at various times.
Procedures for Tendering Outstanding Dollar Notes
Only a holder of outstanding dollar notes may tender their outstanding dollar notes in the exchange offer. To tender in the exchange offer, a holder must comply with either of the following:
In addition, either:
To be tendered effectively, the exchange agent must receive any physical delivery of the letter of transmittal and other required documents at the address set forth below under "Exchange Agent" prior to the expiration date.
A tender to us that is not withdrawn prior to the expiration date constitutes an agreement between us and the tendering holder upon the terms and subject to the conditions described in this prospectus and in the letter of transmittal.
The method of delivery of outstanding notes, letter of transmittal and all other required documents to the exchange agent is at the holder's election and risk. Rather than mail these items, we recommend that holders use an overnight or hand delivery service. In all cases, holders should allow sufficient time to assure timely delivery to the exchange agent before the expiration date. Holders should not send letters of transmittal or certificates representing outstanding notes to us. Holders may request that their respective brokers, dealers, commercial banks, trust companies or other nominees effect the above transactions for them.
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If you are a beneficial owner whose outstanding dollar notes are held in the name of a broker, dealer, commercial bank, trust company, or other nominee who wishes to participate in the exchange offer, you should promptly contact such party and instruct such person to tender outstanding notes on your behalf.
You must make these arrangements or follow these procedures before completing and executing the letter of transmittal and delivering the outstanding dollar notes.
Signatures on the letter of transmittal or a notice of withdrawal, as the case may be, must be guaranteed by a member firm of a registered national securities exchange or of the National Association of Securities Dealers, Inc., a commercial bank or trust company having an office or correspondent in the U.S. or another "eligible guarantor institution" within the meaning of Rule 17A(d)-15 under the Exchange Act unless the outstanding dollar notes surrendered for exchange are tendered:
If the letter of transmittal is signed by a person other than the registered holder of any outstanding dollar notes listed on the outstanding dollar notes, such outstanding dollar notes must be endorsed or accompanied by a properly completed bond power. The bond power must be signed by the registered holder as the registered holder's name appears on the outstanding dollar notes and an eligible guarantor institution must guarantee the signature on the bond power.
If the letter of transmittal or any certificates representing outstanding dollar notes or bond powers are signed by trustees, executors, administrators, guardians, attorneys-in-fact, officers of corporations, or others acting in a fiduciary or representative capacity, those persons should also indicate when signing and, unless waived by us, they should also submit evidence satisfactory to us of their authority to so act.
The exchange agent and DTC have confirmed that any financial institution that is a participant in DTC's system may use DTC's Automated Tender Offer Program to tender. Participants in the program may, instead of physically completing and signing the letter of transmittal and delivering it to the exchange, electronically transmit their acceptance of the exchange by causing DTC to transfer the outstanding notes to the exchange agent in accordance with DTC's Automated Tender Offer Program procedures for transfer. DTC will then send an agent's message to the exchange agent. The term "agent's message" means a message transmitted by DTC, received by the exchange agent and forming part of the book-entry confirmation, that states that:
Procedures for Tendering Outstanding Sterling Notes
To tender your outstanding sterling notes in the applicable exchange offer, you must complete, sign and date the letter of transmittal or a facsimile of the letter of transmittal, have the signature(s) on the letter of transmittal guaranteed if required by the letter of transmittal and mail or deliver such letter of transmittal or facsimile thereof to the exchange agent at the address set forth below under "Exchange Agent" prior to the expiration date.
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In addition, either:
Your tender, if not withdrawn prior to the expiration date, constitutes an agreement between us and you upon the terms and subject to the conditions described in this prospectus and in the applicable letter of transmittal.
The method of delivery of outstanding sterling notes, letters of transmittal and all other required documents to the exchange agent is at your election and risk. We recommend that, instead of delivery by mail, you use an overnight or hand delivery service, properly insured. In all cases, you should allow sufficient time to assure timely delivery to the exchange agent before the expiration date. You should not send letters of transmittal or certificates representing outstanding sterling notes to us. You may request that your broker, dealer, commercial bank, trust company or nominee effect the above transactions for you.
If you are a beneficial owner whose outstanding sterling notes are registered in the name of a broker, dealer, commercial bank, trust company, or other nominee and you wish to tender your notes, you should promptly contact the registered holder and instruct the registered holder to tender on your behalf. If you wish to tender the outstanding sterling notes yourself, you must, prior to completing and executing the applicable letter of transmittal and delivering your outstanding sterling notes, either:
The transfer of registered ownership may take considerable time and may not be able to be completed prior to the expiration date.
Signatures on the applicable letter of transmittal or a notice of withdrawal, as the case may be, must be guaranteed by a member firm of a registered national securities exchange or of the National Association of Securities Dealers, Inc., a commercial bank or trust company having an office or correspondent in the U.S. or another "eligible guarantor institution" within the meaning of Rule 17A(d)-15 under the Exchange Act unless the outstanding sterling notes surrendered for exchange are tendered:
If the applicable letter of transmittal is signed by a person other than the registered holder of any outstanding sterling notes listed on the outstanding sterling notes, such outstanding sterling notes must be endorsed or accompanied by a properly completed bond power. The bond power must be signed by the registered holder as the registered holder's name appears on the outstanding sterling notes and an eligible guarantor institution must guarantee the signature on the bond power.
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If the applicable letter of transmittal or any certificates representing outstanding sterling notes, or bond powers are signed by trustees, executors, administrators, guardians, attorneys-in-fact, officers of corporations or others acting in a fiduciary or representative capacity, those persons should also indicate when signing and, unless waived by us, they should also submit evidence satisfactory to us of their authority to so act.
The exchange agent and Euroclear and Clearstream, Luxembourg have confirmed that any registered holder of original securities that is a participant in Euroclear's or Clearstream, Luxembourg's book-entry transfer facility system may tender original securities by book-entry delivery by causing Euroclear or Clearstream, Luxembourg to transfer the original securities into the exchange agent's account at Euroclear or Clearstream, Luxembourg in accordance with Euroclear's or Clearstream, Luxembourg's procedures for such transfer. However, a properly completed and duly executed letter of transmittal in the form accompanying this prospectus or an agent's message, and any other required documents, must nonetheless be transmitted to and received by the exchange agent at the address set forth below under "Exchange Agent" prior to the expiration date. The term "agent's message" means a message transmitted by Euroclear or Clearstream, Luxembourg, as applicable, received by the exchange agent and forming a part of a book-entry confirmation that states that:
DTC, Euroclear and Clearstream, Luxembourg are collectively referred to herein as the "book-entry transfer facilities" and, individually as a "book-entry transfer facility."
Book-Entry Delivery Procedures
Promptly after the date of this prospectus, the exchange agent will establish an account with respect to the outstanding dollar notes at DTC and with respect to the outstanding sterling notes at Euroclear and Clearstream, Luxembourg, as applicable, in each case, as book-entry transfer facilities, for purposes of the exchange offers. Any financial institution that is a participant in the book-entry transfer facility's system may make book-entry delivery of the outstanding notes by causing the book-entry transfer facility to transfer those outstanding notes into the exchange agent's account at the facility in accordance with the facility's procedures for such transfer. To be timely, book-entry delivery of outstanding notes requires receipt of a confirmation of a book-entry transfer, a "book-entry confirmation," prior to the expiration date. In addition, although delivery of outstanding notes may be effected through book-entry transfer into the exchange agent's account at the applicable book-entry transfer facility, the applicable letter of transmittal or a manually signed facsimile thereof, together with any required signature guarantees and any other required documents, or an "agent's message," as defined below, in connection with a book-entry transfer, must, in any case, be delivered or transmitted to and received by the exchange agent at its address set forth on the cover page of the applicable letter of transmittal prior to the expiration date to receive exchange notes for tendered outstanding notes, or the guaranteed delivery procedure described below must be complied with. Tender will not be deemed made until such documents are received by the exchange agent. Delivery of documents to the applicable book-entry transfer facility does not constitute delivery to the exchange agent.
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Holders of outstanding notes who are unable to deliver confirmation of the book-entry tender of their outstanding notes into the exchange agent's account at the applicable book-entry transfer facility or all other documents required by the applicable letter of transmittal to the exchange agent on or prior to the expiration date must tender their outstanding notes according to the guaranteed delivery procedures described below.
Acceptance of Exchange Notes
In all cases, we will issue exchange notes for outstanding notes that we have accepted for exchange under the exchange offers only after the exchange agent timely receives:
By tendering outstanding notes pursuant to the exchange offers, each holder will represent to us that, among other things:
If the holder is not acquiring the exchange notes in the ordinary course of its business, or if the holder does have an arrangement or understanding with any person to participate in, or is engaging in or intends to engage in, a distribution of the exchange notes, or if the holder is an affiliate of Warner Music Group, then:
In addition, each broker-dealer that is to receive exchange notes for its own account in exchange for outstanding notes must represent that such outstanding notes were acquired by that broker-dealer as a result of market-making activities or other trading activities and must acknowledge that it will deliver a prospectus that meets the requirements of the Securities Act in connection with any resale of the exchange notes. The letter of transmittal states that by so acknowledging and by delivering a prospectus, a broker-dealer will not be deemed to admit that it is an "underwriter" within the meaning of the Securities Act. See "Plan of Distribution".
We will interpret the terms and conditions of the exchange offers, including the letter of transmittal and the instructions to the letter of transmittal, and will resolve all questions as to the validity, form, eligibility, including time of receipt, and acceptance of outstanding notes tendered for exchange. Our determinations in this regard will be final and binding on all parties. We reserve the
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absolute right to reject any and all tenders of any particular outstanding notes not properly tendered or to not accept any particular outstanding notes if the acceptance might, in our or our counsel's judgment, be unlawful. We also reserve the absolute right to waive any defects or irregularities or conditions of the exchange offers as to any particular outstanding notes either before or after the expiration date, including the right to waive the ineligibility of any holder who seeks to tender outstanding notes in the exchange offers.
Unless waived, any defects or irregularities in connection with tenders of outstanding notes for exchange must be cured within such reasonable period of time as we determine. Neither we, nor the exchange agent, nor any other person will be under any duty to give notification of any defect or irregularity with respect to any tender of outstanding notes for exchange, nor will any of them incur any liability for any failure to give notification. Any outstanding notes received by the exchange agent that are not properly tendered and as to which the irregularities have not been cured or waived will be returned by the exchange agent to the tendering holder, without cost to the holder, unless otherwise provided in the letter of transmittal, as soon as practicable after the expiration date.
Guaranteed Delivery Procedures
Holders wishing to tender their outstanding notes but whose outstanding notes are not immediately available or who cannot deliver their outstanding notes, the letter of transmittal or any other required documents to the exchange agent or comply with the applicable procedures under DTC's Automatic Tender Offer Program in the case of the outstanding dollar notes or the applicable procedures of Euroclear or Clearstream, Luxembourg in the case of the outstanding sterling notes prior to the expiration date may still tender if:
Withdrawal Rights
Except as otherwise provided in this prospectus, holders of outstanding notes may withdraw their tender of outstanding notes at any time prior to 5:00 p.m., New York City time, on the expiration date.
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For a withdrawal to be effective:
Any notice of withdrawal must:
If certificates for outstanding notes have been delivered or otherwise identified to the exchange agent, then, prior to the release of such certificates, the withdrawing holder must also submit:
If outstanding notes have been tendered pursuant to the procedures for book-entry transfer described above, any notice of withdrawal must specify the name and number of the account at the applicable book-entry transfer facility to be credited with the withdrawn outstanding notes and otherwise comply with the procedures of the facility. We will determine all questions as to the validity, form, and eligibility, including time of receipt, of notices of withdrawal, and our determination will be final and binding on all parties. Any outstanding notes so withdrawn will be deemed not to have been validly tendered for exchange for purposes of the exchange offers. Any outstanding notes that have been tendered for exchange but that are not exchanged for any reason will be returned to their holder, without cost to the holder, or, in the case of book-entry transfer, the outstanding notes will be credited to an account maintained with the applicable book-entry transfer facility as soon as practicable after withdrawal, rejection of tender or termination of the exchange offers. Properly withdrawn outstanding notes may be retendered by following the procedures described under "Procedures for Tendering Outstanding Dollar Notes" and "Procedures for Tendering Outstanding Sterling Notes" above at any time on or prior to the expiration date.
Exchange Agent
Wells Fargo Bank, National Association has been appointed as the exchange agent for the exchange offer for the dollar notes. HSBC Bank plc has been appointed as the exchange agent for the exchange offer for the sterling notes. Wells Fargo Bank, National Association also acts as trustees under the indenture governing the outstanding notes, which is the same indenture that will govern the exchange notes. You should direct all executed letters of transmittal and all questions and requests for
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assistance, requests for additional copies of this prospectus or of the letter of transmittal, and requests for notices of guaranteed delivery to the exchange agents addressed as follows:
By Overnight Courier or Mail for dollar notes: Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. Corporate Trust Operations MAC N9303-121 6th & Marquette Avenue Minneapolis, MN 55479 |
By Registered or Certified Mail for dollar notes: Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. Corporate Trust Operations MAC N9303-121 P.O. Box 1517 Minneapolis, MN 55480 |
By Hand for dollar notes: Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. Corporate Trust Services Northstar East Bldg. - 12th Floor 608 2nd Avenue South Minneapolis, MN 55402 |
||
Attn: Reorganization (if by mail, registered or certified recommended) |
Attn: Reorganization |
Attn: Reorganization |
By Facsimile: | To Confirm by Telephone: | |
(612) 667-6282 Attn: Bondholder Communications |
(800) 344-5128; or (612) 667-9764 Attn: Bondholder Communications |
By Mail, Overnight Courier or Hand Delivery for sterling notes: HSBC Bank plc 8 Canada Square London E14 5HQ United Kingdom Attn: Manager, Bond Paying Agency Corporate Trust and Loan Agency |
By Facsimile Transmissions: (44)(0) 0207 0260 8932 Confirm By Telephone: 44 (20) 7991 3688 For Information: 44 (20) 7991 3688 |
IF YOU DELIVER THE LETTER OF TRANSMITTAL TO AN ADDRESS OTHER THAN AS SET FORTH ABOVE OR TRANSMIT INSTRUCTIONS VIA FACSIMILE OTHER THAN AS SET FORTH ABOVE, THAT DELIVERY OR THOSE INSTRUCTIONS WILL NOT BE EFFECTIVE.
Fees and Expenses
We will bear the expenses of soliciting tenders. The principal solicitation is being made by mail by the exchange agent. We may make additional solicitations by facsimile, telephone or in person by our officers and regular employees and our affiliates.
We have not retained any dealer-manager in connection with the exchange offers and will not make any payment to broker-dealers or others for soliciting acceptances of the exchange offers. We will, however, pay the exchange agent reasonable and customary fees for its services and reimburse it for its related, reasonable out-of-pocket expenses.
We will pay the estimated cash expenses to be incurred in connection with the exchange offers. The expenses are estimated in the aggregate to be approximately $500,000. They include:
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Accounting Treatment
We will record the exchange notes in our accounting records at the same carrying value as the outstanding notes, which is the aggregate principal amount as reflected in our accounting records on the date of exchange. Accordingly, we will not recognize any gain or loss for accounting purposes upon the consummation of the exchange offers. We will capitalize the expenses of the exchange offers as prepaid debt issuance costs and expense them over the remaining life of the notes.
Transfer Taxes
We will pay all transfer taxes, if any, applicable to the exchange of outstanding notes under the exchange offers. The tendering holder, however, will be required to pay any transfer taxes, whether imposed on the registered holder or any other person, if:
If satisfactory evidence of payment of such taxes is not submitted with the letter of transmittal, the amount of such transfer taxes will be billed to that tendering holder.
Holders who tender their outstanding notes for exchange will not be required to pay any transfer taxes. However, holders who instruct us to register exchange notes in the name of, or request that outstanding notes not tendered or not accepted in the exchange offers be returned to, a person other than the registered tendering holder will be required to pay any applicable transfer tax.
Consequences of Failure to Exchange
Holders of outstanding notes who do not exchange their outstanding notes for exchange notes under the exchange offers will remain subject to the restrictions on transfer of such outstanding notes:
In general, you may not offer or sell the outstanding notes unless they are registered under the Securities Act or if the offer or sale is exempt from registration under the Securities Act and applicable state securities laws. Except as required by the registration rights agreement, we do not intend to register resales of the outstanding notes under the Securities Act. Based on interpretations of the staff of the SEC, exchange notes issued pursuant to the exchange offers may be offered for resale, resold or otherwise transferred by their holders, other than any holder that is an "affiliate" of Warner Music Group within the meaning of Rule 405 under the Securities Act, without compliance with the registration and prospectus delivery provisions of the Securities Act, provided that:
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Any holder who tenders outstanding notes in the exchange offers for the purpose of participating in a distribution of the exchange notes:
Other
Participating in the exchange offers is voluntary, and you should carefully consider whether to accept. You are urged to consult your financial and tax advisors in making your own decision on what action to take.
We may in the future seek to acquire untendered outstanding notes in open market or privately negotiated transactions, through subsequent exchange offers or otherwise. We have no present plans to acquire any outstanding notes that are not tendered in the exchange offers or to file a registration statement to permit resales of any untendered outstanding notes.
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You can find the definitions of certain terms used in this description under the subheading "Certain Definitions." In this description, the term "Warner Music" refers only to Warner Music Group and not to any of its subsidiaries. For purposes of this summary, the term "Notes" refers to both the outstanding notes and the exchange notes; the term "Dollar Notes" refers to both the outstanding dollar 73/8% Senior Subordinated Notes due 2014 and the exchange dollar 73/8% Senior Subordinated Notes due 2014; and the term "Sterling Notes" refers to both the outstanding pounds sterling 81/8% Senior Subordinated Notes due 2014 and the exchange pounds sterling 81/8% Senior Subordinated Notes due 2014.
Warner Music issued the outstanding notes, and will issue the exchange notes described in this prospectus, under an indenture dated as of April 8, 2004 (the "Indenture") among itself, the Guarantors and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association, as trustee (the "Trustee"). The outstanding dollar notes and the outstanding sterling notes were, and the exchange dollar notes and the exchange sterling notes will be, issued as a separate series, but, except as otherwise provided below, are or will be, as applicable, treated as a single class for all purposes under the Indenture.
The terms of the Notes include those stated in the Indenture and those made part of the Indenture by reference to the Trust Indenture Act of 1939. For more information, please review the Indenture, which is filed as an exhibit to the registration statement of which this prospectus is a part. Also, for so long as the Sterling Notes are listed on the Luxembourg Stock Exchange and the rules of such stock exchange shall so require, copies of the Indenture may be obtained upon request to the agent in Luxembourg.
The following description is a summary of the material provisions of the Indenture; all material information regarding the Notes and the rights of the holders of the Notes is summarized herein. It does not restate this agreement in its entirety. We urge you to read the Indenture because it, and not this description, defines your rights as holders of the Notes. Certain defined terms used in this description but not defined below under "Certain Definitions" have the meanings assigned to them in the Indenture. The registered holder of any Note will be treated as the owner of it for all purposes. Only registered holders will have rights under the Indenture.
The form and terms of the exchange notes and the outstanding notes are identical in all material respects, except that the exchange notes will not contain terms with respect to transfer restrictions or additional interest upon a failure to fulfill certain of our obligations under the registration rights agreement.
Brief Description of the Notes and the Guarantees
The Notes:
The Guarantees:
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As of September 30, 2004, Warner Music had outstanding total Senior Debt of approximately $1.2 billion, all of which would have been secured. An additional $250.0 million would have been available for revolving borrowings under the Credit Agreement, all of which would be secured if borrowed. As indicated above and as discussed in detail below under the caption "Subordination," payments on the Notes are subordinated to the payment of Senior Debt. The Indenture permits us to incur additional Senior Debt.
Principal, Maturity and Interest
On April 8, 2004, we issued $46.50 million aggregate principal amount of Dollar Notes and £100.0 million aggregate principal amount of Sterling Notes. The Indenture governing the Notes provides for the issuance of additional Notes having identical terms and conditions to the outstanding notes and the exchange notes (the "Additional Notes"), subject to compliance with the covenants contained in the Indenture. Any Additional Notes will be part of the same issue as the Notes and will vote on all matters with the Notes. The Notes will mature on April 15, 2014.
The Notes are issued in registered form in denominations of $5,000 and integral multiples of $1,000 in the case of the Dollar Notes and in denominations of £5,000 and integral multiples of £1,000 in the case of the exchange sterling notes.
Interest on the Dollar Notes accrues at the rate of 73/8% per annum, and interest on the Sterling Notes accrues at the rate of 81/8% per annum. Interest on the Notes is payable semi-annually in arrears on April 15 and October 15, commencing on October 15, 2004. Warner Music will make each interest payment to the holders of record of the Notes on the immediately preceding April 1 and October 1.
Interest on the Notes accrues from April 8, 2004, or, if interest has already been paid, from the date it was most recently paid. Interest is computed on the basis of a 360-day year comprised of twelve 30-day months.
Methods of Receiving Payments on the Notes
If a holder has given wire transfer instructions to Warner Music, Warner Music, through the paying agent or otherwise, will pay all principal, interest and premium and Additional Interest (as defined under "Exchange Offers; Registration Rights"), if any, on that holder's Notes in accordance with those instructions. All other payments on the Notes will be made at the office or agency of the paying agent and registrar within the City and State of New York, and so long as the Sterling Notes are listed on the Luxembourg Stock Exchange, payment of principal, premium, if any, and interest on the Sterling Notes will be payable, and the Sterling Notes may be exchanged or transferred, at the office of the paying agent in Luxembourg, unless Warner Music elects to make interest payments by check mailed to the holders at their address set forth in the register of holders.
Paying Agent and Registrar for the Notes
Warner Music will maintain one or more paying agents (each, a "paying agent") for the Notes in each of (i) London, (ii) the Borough of Manhattan, City of New York (the "principal paying agent") and (iii) Luxembourg, for so long as the Notes are listed on the Luxembourg Stock Exchange and its rules so require. If the European Council Directive 2003/48/EC or any other directive implementing the conclusions of the ECOFIN Council meeting of 26-27 November 2000 is implemented, Warner Music will use its best efforts to maintain a paying agent in a member state of the European Union that will not be obliged to withhold or deduct tax pursuant to any European Union Directive on the taxation of savings implementing such conclusions or any law implementing or complying with, or introduced to conform to, such directive. The initial paying agents will be HSBC Bank plc in London, Wells Fargo Bank, National Association in New York and Dexia Banque Internationale à Luxembourg in Luxembourg.
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Warner Music will also maintain one or more registrars (each, a "registrar") with offices in the Borough of Manhattan, City of New York. Warner Music will also maintain a transfer agent in each of London, New York and Luxembourg, for so long as the Notes are listed on the Luxembourg Stock Exchange and the rules so require. The initial registrar will be Wells Fargo Bank, National Association in New York. The initial transfer agent will be Wells Fargo Bank, National Association in New York and Dexia Banque Internationale à Luxembourg in Luxembourg. The registrar and the transfer agent in New York and the transfer agent in Luxembourg will maintain a register reflecting ownership of Notes outstanding from time to time and will make payments on and facilitate transfer of Notes on behalf of Warner Music. Each transfer agent shall perform the functions of a transfer agent.
Warner Music may change the paying agents, the registrars or the transfer agents without prior notice to the holders. If, and for so long as, the Notes are listed on the Luxembourg Stock Exchange and its rules so require, Warner Music will publish a notice of any change of paying agent, registrar or transfer agent in a newspaper having a general circulation in Luxembourg (which is expected to be the Luxemburger Wort). Warner Music or any of its Subsidiaries may act as a paying agent or registrar.
Transfer and Exchange
A holder may transfer or exchange Notes in accordance with the Indenture. The registrar and the Trustee may require a holder to furnish appropriate endorsements and transfer documents in connection with a transfer of Notes. Holders will be required to pay all taxes due on transfer. Warner Music is not required to transfer or exchange any Note selected for redemption. Also, Warner Music is not required to transfer or exchange any Note for a period of 15 days before a selection of Notes to be redeemed.
Subordination
The payment of principal, interest and premium and Additional Interest, if any, on the Notes is subordinated to the prior payment in full of all Senior Debt of Warner Music, including Senior Debt incurred after the Issue Date.
The holders of Senior Debt are entitled to receive payment in full of all Obligations due in respect of Senior Debt (including interest after the commencement of any bankruptcy proceeding at the rate specified in the applicable Senior Debt) before the holders of Notes are entitled to receive any payment with respect to the Notes, in the event of any distribution to creditors of Warner Music:
(1) in a liquidation or dissolution of Warner Music;
(2) in a bankruptcy, reorganization, insolvency, receivership or similar proceeding relating to Warner Music or its property;
(3) in an assignment for the benefit of creditors; or
(4) in any marshaling of Warner Music's assets and liabilities.
Warner Music also may not make any payment in respect of the Notes (except that holders may receive and retain Permitted Junior Securities or from the trust described under "Legal Defeasance and Covenant Defeasance") if:
(1) a payment default on Designated Senior Debt occurs and is continuing beyond any applicable grace period; or
(2) any other default occurs and is continuing on any series of Designated Senior Debt that permits holders of that series of Designated Senior Debt to accelerate its maturity and the Trustee receives a notice of such default (a "Payment Blockage Notice") from Warner Music or the holders of any Designated Senior Debt.
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Payments on the Notes may and will be resumed:
(1) in the case of a payment default, upon the date on which such default is cured or waived; and
(2) in the case of a nonpayment default, upon the earlier of the date on which such nonpayment default is cured or waived or 179 days after the date on which the applicable Payment Blockage Notice is received, unless the maturity of any Designated Senior Debt has been accelerated.
No new Payment Blockage Notice may be delivered unless and until:
(1) 360 days have elapsed since the delivery of the immediately prior Payment Blockage Notice; and
(2) all scheduled payments of principal, interest and premium and Additional Interest, if any, on the Notes that have come due have been paid in full in cash.
No nonpayment default that existed or was continuing on the date of delivery of any Payment Blockage Notice to the Trustee will be, or be made, the basis for a subsequent Payment Blockage Notice unless such default has been cured or waived for a period of not less than 90 days.
If the Trustee or any holder of the Notes receives a payment in respect of the Notes (except that holders may receive and retain Permitted Junior Securities or from the trust described under "Legal Defeasance and Covenant Defeasance") when:
(1) the payment is prohibited by these subordination provisions; and
(2) the Trustee or the holder has actual knowledge that the payment is prohibited,
then, the Trustee or the holder, as the case may be, will hold the payment in trust for the benefit of the holders of Senior Debt. Upon the proper written request of the holders of Senior Debt, the Trustee or the holder, as the case may be, will deliver the amounts in trust to the holders of Senior Debt or their proper Representative.
Warner Music must promptly notify holders of Senior Debt if payment of the Notes is accelerated because of an Event of Default.
As a result of the subordination provisions described above, in the event of a bankruptcy, liquidation or reorganization of Warner Music, holders of Notes may recover less ratably than creditors of Warner Music who are holders of Senior Debt. See "Risk FactorsRisks Related to the NotesYour right to receive payments on the notes will be junior to the rights of the lenders under our senior credit facility and all of our other senior debt and any of our future senior debt."
Optional Redemption
At any time prior to April 15, 2007, Warner Music may on one or more occasions redeem (x) in the aggregate up to 35% of the aggregate principal amount of the Dollar Notes issued under the Indenture (calculated after giving effect to any issuance of additional Dollar Notes) and (y) in the aggregate up to 35% of the aggregate principal amount of the Sterling Notes issued under the Indenture (calculated after giving effect to any issuance of additional Sterling Notes), in each case, with the net cash proceeds of one or more Equity Offerings, at a redemption price of 107.375% of the principal amount of the Dollar Notes and 108.125% of the principal amount of the Sterling Notes, in each case, plus accrued and unpaid interest and Additional Interest, if any, to the redemption date; provided that:
(1) at least 65% of the aggregate principal amount of the Dollar Notes (calculated after giving effect to any issuance of additional Dollar Notes), in the case of each redemption of Dollar
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Notes, and at least 65% of the aggregate principal amount of the Sterling Notes (calculated after giving effect to any issuance of additional Sterling Notes), in the case of each redemption of Sterling Notes must, in each case, remain outstanding immediately after the occurrence of each such redemption (excluding Notes held by Warner Music and its Subsidiaries); and
(2) the redemption occurs within 90 days of the date of the closing of such Equity Offering.
The Dollar Notes and the Sterling Notes, in each case, may be redeemed, in whole or in part, at any time prior to April 15, 2009, at the option of Warner Music upon not less than 30 nor more than 60 days' prior notice mailed by first-class mail to each holder's registered address, at a redemption price equal to 100% of the principal amount of the Notes redeemed plus the Applicable Premium as of, and accrued and unpaid interest and Additional Interest, if any, to, the applicable redemption date (subject to the right of holders of record on the relevant record date to receive interest due on the relevant interest payment date).
On or after April 15, 2009, Warner Music may redeem all or a part of the Dollar Notes and may redeem all or a part of the Sterling Notes, in each case, at its option, upon not less than 30 nor more than 60 days' notice, at the redemption prices (expressed as percentages of principal amount) set forth below plus accrued and unpaid interest and Additional Interest, if any, on the Notes to be redeemed to the applicable redemption date, if redeemed during the twelve-month period beginning on April 15 of the years indicated below:
Dollar Notes
Year |
Percentage |
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2009 | 103.688 | % | |
2010 | 102.458 | % | |
2011 | 101.229 | % | |
2012 and thereafter | 100.000 | % |
Sterling Notes
Year |
Percentage |
||
---|---|---|---|
2009 | 104.063 | % | |
2010 | 102.708 | % | |
2011 | 101.354 | % | |
2012 and thereafter | 100.000 | % |
Warner Music may acquire Notes by means other than a redemption, whether by tender offer, open market purchases, negotiated transactions or otherwise, in accordance with applicable securities laws, so long as such acquisition does not otherwise violate the terms of the Indenture.
Guarantees
The Guarantors jointly and severally guarantee Warner Music's obligations under the Indenture and the Notes on a senior subordinated basis. Each Guarantee is subordinated to any Guarantor Senior Debt on the same basis as the Notes are subordinated to Senior Debt. The obligations of each Guarantor under its Guarantee is limited as necessary to prevent the Guarantee from constituting a fraudulent conveyance or fraudulent transfer under applicable law.
Each Guarantor may consolidate with or merge into or sell its assets to Warner Music or another Guarantor that is a Wholly Owned Restricted Subsidiary of Warner Music without limitation, or with
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other Persons upon the terms and conditions set forth in the Indenture. See "Certain CovenantsMerger, Consolidation and Sale of Assets." The Guarantee of a Guarantor will be released in the event that:
(1) (a) the sale, disposition or other transfer (including through merger or consolidation) of all of the Capital Stock (or any sale, disposition or other transfer of Capital Stock following which the applicable Guarantor is no longer a Restricted Subsidiary), or all or substantially all the assets, of the applicable Guarantor if such sale, disposition or other transfer is made in compliance with the applicable provisions of the Indenture,
(b) Warner Music designates any Restricted Subsidiary that is a Guarantor as an Unrestricted Subsidiary in accordance with the provisions of the Indenture set forth under "Certain CovenantsRestricted Payments" and the definition of "Unrestricted Subsidiary," or
(c) in the case of any Restricted Subsidiary which after the Issue Date is required to guarantee the Notes pursuant to the covenant described under "Certain CovenantsAdditional Subsidiary Guarantees", the release or discharge of the guarantee by such Restricted Subsidiary of Indebtedness of Warner Music or any Restricted Subsidiary of Warner Music or such Restricted Subsidiary or the repayment of the Indebtedness or Disqualified Stock, in each case, which resulted in the obligation to guarantee the Notes; and
(2) in the case of clause (1)(a) above, such Guarantor is released from its guarantee, if any, of and all pledges and security, if any, granted in connection with, the Credit Agreement and any other Indebtedness of Warner Music or any Restricted Subsidiary.
Mandatory Redemption
Warner Music is not required to make mandatory redemption or sinking fund payments with respect to the Notes.
Repurchase at the Option of Holders
Change of Control
If a Change of Control occurs, each holder of Notes will have the right to require Warner Music to repurchase all or any part (equal to $5,000 or £5,000 or an integral multiple of $1,000 or £1,000, as applicable) of that holder's Notes pursuant to a Change of Control Offer on the terms set forth in the Indenture. In the Change of Control Offer, Warner Music will offer a Change of Control Payment in cash equal to 101% of the aggregate principal amount of Notes repurchased plus accrued and unpaid interest and Additional Interest, if any, on the Notes repurchased, to the date of purchase. Within 30 days following any Change of Control, Warner Music will mail a notice to each holder describing the transaction or transactions that constitute the Change of Control and offering to repurchase Notes on the Change of Control Payment Date specified in the notice, which date will be no earlier than 30 days and no later than 60 days from the date such notice is mailed, pursuant to the procedures required by the Indenture and described in such notice. Warner Music will comply with the requirements of Rule 14e-1 under the Exchange Act and any other securities laws and regulations thereunder to the extent those laws and regulations are applicable in connection with the repurchase of the Notes as a result of a Change of Control. To the extent that the provisions of any securities laws or regulations conflict with the Change of Control provisions of the Indenture, Warner Music will comply with the applicable securities laws and regulations and will not be deemed to have breached its obligations under the Change of Control provisions of the Indenture by virtue of such conflict.
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On the Change of Control Payment Date, Warner Music will, to the extent lawful:
(1) accept for payment all Notes or portions of Notes properly tendered pursuant to the Change of Control Offer;
(2) deposit with the paying agent an amount equal to the Change of Control Payment in respect of all Notes or portions of Notes properly tendered; and
(3) deliver or cause to be delivered to the Trustee the Notes properly accepted together with an officers' certificate stating the aggregate principal amount of Notes or portions of Notes being purchased by Warner Music.
The paying agent will promptly mail to each holder of Notes properly tendered the Change of Control Payment for such Notes, and the Trustee will promptly authenticate and mail (or cause to be transferred by book entry) to each holder a new Note equal in principal amount to any unpurchased portion of the Notes surrendered, if any; provided that each new Note will be in a principal amount of $5,000 or an integral multiple of $1,000 in the case of the Dollar Notes, and in a principal amount of £5,000 or an integral multiple of £1,000 in the case of the Sterling Notes.
Prior to complying with any of the provisions of this "Change of Control" covenant under the Indenture governing the Notes, but in any event within 90 days following a Change of Control, to the extent required to permit Warner Music to comply with this covenant, Warner Music will either repay all outstanding Senior Debt or obtain the requisite consents, if any, under all agreements governing outstanding Senior Debt. Warner Music will publicly announce the results of the Change of Control Offer on or as soon as practicable after the Change of Control Payment Date.
The provisions described above that require Warner Music to make a Change of Control Offer following a Change of Control will be applicable whether or not any other provisions of the Indenture are applicable. Except as described above with respect to a Change of Control, the Indenture does not contain provisions that permit the holders of the Notes to require that Warner Music repurchase or redeem the Notes in the event of a takeover, recapitalization or similar transaction.
Warner Music will not be required to make a Change of Control Offer upon a Change of Control if a third party makes the Change of Control Offer in the manner, at the times and otherwise in compliance with the requirements set forth in the Indenture applicable to a Change of Control Offer made by Warner Music and purchases all Notes properly tendered and not withdrawn under the Change of Control Offer.
The definition of Change of Control includes a phrase relating to the direct or indirect sale, lease, transfer, conveyance or other disposition of "all or substantially all" of the properties or assets of Warner Music and its Subsidiaries taken as a whole. Although there is a limited body of case law interpreting the phrase "substantially all," there is no precise established definition of the phrase under applicable law. Accordingly, the ability of a holder of Notes to require Warner Music to repurchase its Notes as a result of a sale, lease, transfer, conveyance or other disposition of less than all of the assets of Warner Music and its Subsidiaries taken as a whole to another Person or group may be uncertain.
Asset Sales
Warner Music will not, and will not permit any of its Restricted Subsidiaries to, consummate an Asset Sale unless:
(1) Warner Music (or such Restricted Subsidiary, as the case may be) receives consideration at the time of the Asset Sale at least equal to the fair market value of the assets or Equity Interests issued or sold or otherwise disposed of;
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(2) in the case of Asset Sales involving consideration in excess of $10.0 million, the fair market value is determined by Warner Music's Board of Directors and evidenced by a resolution of the Board of Directors set forth in an Officers' Certificate delivered to the Trustee; and
(3) except for any Permitted Asset Swap, at least 75% of the consideration received in the Asset Sale by Warner Music or such Restricted Subsidiary is in the form of cash or Cash Equivalents.
For purposes of clause (2) above, the amount of (i) any liabilities (as shown on Warner Music's or such Restricted Subsidiary's most recent balance sheet or in the notes thereto) of Warner Music or any Restricted Subsidiary (other than liabilities that are by their terms subordinated to the Notes) that are assumed by the transferee of any such assets and from which Warner Music and all Restricted Subsidiaries have been validly released by all creditors in writing, (ii) any securities received by Warner Music or such Restricted Subsidiary from such transferee that are converted by Warner Music or such Restricted Subsidiary into cash (to the extent of the cash received) within 180 days following the closing of such Asset Sale and (iii) any Designated Noncash Consideration received by Warner Music or any of its Restricted Subsidiaries in such Asset Sale having an aggregate fair market value (as determined in good faith by the Board of Directors of Warner Music), taken together with all other Designated Noncash Consideration received pursuant to this clause (iii) that is at that time outstanding, not to exceed the greater of (x) $75.0 million and (y) 5.0% of Consolidated Tangible Assets at the time of the receipt of such Designated Noncash Consideration (with the fair market value of each item of Designated Noncash Consideration being measured at the time received without giving effect to subsequent changes in value), shall be deemed to be cash for purposes of this paragraph and for no other purpose.
Within 365 days after the receipt of any Net Proceeds from an Asset Sale, Warner Music may apply those Net Proceeds at its option:
(1) to permanently reduce Obligations under Senior Debt of Warner Music (and to correspondingly reduce commitments with respect thereto) or Indebtedness that ranks pari passu with the Notes (provided that if Warner Music shall so reduce Obligations under such Indebtedness, it will equally and ratably reduce Obligations under the Notes by making an offer (in accordance with the procedures set forth below for an Asset Sale Offer (as defined below)) to all holders of Notes to purchase at a purchase price equal to 100% of the principal amount thereof, plus accrued and unpaid interest and Additional Interest, if any, the pro rata principal amount of Notes) or Indebtedness of a Restricted Subsidiary, in each case other than Indebtedness owed to Warner Music or an Affiliate of Warner Music;
(2) to an investment in (A) any one or more businesses; provided that such investment in any business is in the form of the acquisition of Capital Stock and results in Warner Music or a Restricted Subsidiary owning an amount of the Capital Stock of such business such that it constitutes a Restricted Subsidiary, (B) capital expenditures or (C) other assets, in each of (A), (B) and (C), used or useful in a Permitted Business; and/or
(3) to an investment in (A) any one or more businesses; provided that such investment in any business is in the form of the acquisition of Capital Stock and it results in Warner Music or a Restricted Subsidiary owning an amount of the Capital Stock of such business such that it constitutes a Restricted Subsidiary, (B) properties or (C) assets that, in each of (A), (B) and (C), replace the businesses, properties and assets that are the subject of such Asset Sale.
When the aggregate amount of Net Proceeds not applied or invested in accordance with the preceding paragraph ("Excess Proceeds") exceeds $20.0 million, Warner Music will make an offer (an "Asset Sale Offer") to all holders of Notes and Indebtedness that ranks pari passu with the Notes and contains provisions similar to those set forth in the Indenture with respect to offers to purchase with
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the proceeds of sales of assets to purchase, on a pro rata basis, the maximum principal amount of Notes and such other pari passu Indebtedness that may be purchased out of the Excess Proceeds. The offer price in any Asset Sale Offer will be equal to 100% of principal amount thereof, plus accrued and unpaid interest and Additional Interest, if any, to the date of purchase, and will be payable in cash.
Pending the final application of any Net Proceeds, Warner Music may temporarily reduce revolving credit borrowings or otherwise invest the Net Proceeds in any manner that is not prohibited by the Indenture.
If any Excess Proceeds remain after consummation of an Asset Sale Offer, Warner Music may use those Excess Proceeds for any purpose not otherwise prohibited by the Indenture. If the aggregate principal amount of Notes tendered into such Asset Sale Offer exceeds the amount of Excess Proceeds, the Trustee will select the Notes to be purchased on a pro rata basis. Upon completion of each Asset Sale Offer, the amount of Excess Proceeds will be reset at zero.
Warner Music will comply with the requirements of Rule 14e-1 under the Exchange Act and any other securities laws and regulations thereunder to the extent those laws and regulations are applicable in connection with each repurchase of Notes pursuant to an Asset Sale Offer. To the extent that the provisions of any securities laws or regulations conflict with the Asset Sale provisions of the Indenture, Warner Music will comply with the applicable securities laws and regulations and will not be deemed to have breached its obligations under the Asset Sale provisions of the Indenture by virtue of such conflict.
Selection and Notice
If less than all of the Notes are to be redeemed at any time, the Trustee will select Notes for redemption as follows:
(1) if the Notes are listed on any national securities exchange, in compliance with the requirements of the principal national securities exchange (including the Luxembourg Stock Exchange) on which the Notes are listed; or
(2) if the Notes are not listed on any national securities exchange, on a pro rata basis, by lot or by such method as the Trustee deems fair and appropriate.
No Dollar Notes of $5,000 or less, or Sterling Notes of £5,000 or less, can be redeemed in part. If a partial redemption is made with the proceeds of an Equity Offering in accordance with the first paragraph under "Optional Redemption", the Trustee will select the applicable Notes on a pro rata basis or on as nearly a pro rata basis as is practicable (subject to DTC procedures). Notices of redemption will be mailed by first-class mail at least 30 but not more than 60 days before the redemption date to each holder of Notes to be redeemed at its registered address, except that redemption notices may be mailed more than 60 days prior to a redemption date if the notice is issued in connection with a defeasance of the Notes or a satisfaction and discharge of the Indenture. Notices of redemption may not be conditional.
If any Note is to be redeemed in part only, the notice of redemption that relates to that Note will state the portion of the principal amount of that Note that is to be redeemed. A new Note in principal amount equal to the unredeemed portion of the original Note will be issued in the name of the holder of Notes upon cancellation of the original Note. Notes called for redemption become due on the date fixed for redemption. On and after the redemption date, interest ceases to accrue on Notes or portions of them called for redemption.
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Restricted Payments
Warner Music will not, and will not permit any of its Restricted Subsidiaries to, directly or indirectly:
(a) declare or pay any dividend or make any other payment or distribution on account of Warner Music's or any of its Restricted Subsidiaries' Equity Interests, including any dividend or distribution payable in connection with any merger or consolidation (other than (A) dividends or distributions by Warner Music payable in Equity Interests (other than Disqualified Stock) of Warner Music or in options, warrants or other rights to purchase such Equity Interests (other than Disqualified Stock) or (B) dividends or distributions by a Restricted Subsidiary to Warner Music or any other Restricted Subsidiary so long as, in the case of any dividend or distribution payable on or in respect of any class or series of securities issued by a Restricted Subsidiary other than a Wholly Owned Subsidiary, Warner Music or a Restricted Subsidiary receives at least its pro rata share of such dividend or distribution in accordance with its Equity Interests in such class or series of securities);
(b) purchase, redeem or otherwise acquire or retire for value any Equity Interests of Warner Music or any direct or indirect parent corporation of Warner Music, including in connection with any merger or consolidation involving Warner Music;
(c) make any principal payment on, or redeem, repurchase, defease or otherwise acquire or retire for value, in each case prior to any scheduled repayment, sinking fund payment or maturity, any Indebtedness subordinated or junior in right of payment to the Notes (or, as applicable, any Guarantees) (other than (x) Indebtedness permitted under clauses (7) and (8) of the definition of "Permitted Debt" or (y) the purchase, repurchase or other acquisition of Indebtedness subordinated or junior in right of payment to the Notes purchased in anticipation of satisfying a sinking fund obligation, principal installment or final maturity, in each case due within one year of the date of purchase, repurchase or acquisition); or
(d) make any Restricted Investment (all such payments and other actions set forth in these clauses (a) through (d) being collectively referred to as "Restricted Payments"),
unless, at the time of and after giving effect to such Restricted Payment:
(1) no Default or Event of Default has occurred and is continuing or would occur as a consequence of such Restricted Payment;
(2) Warner Music would, at the time of such Restricted Payment and after giving pro forma effect thereto as if such Restricted Payment had been made at the beginning of the applicable four-quarter period, have been permitted to incur at least $1.00 of additional Indebtedness pursuant to the Fixed Charge Coverage Ratio test set forth in the first paragraph of the covenant described below under the caption "Incurrence of Indebtedness and Issuance of Preferred Stock"; and
(3) such Restricted Payment, together with the aggregate amount of all other Restricted Payments made by Warner Music and the Restricted Subsidiaries after the Issue Date (excluding Restricted Payments permitted by clauses (3), (4), (5), (6), (8), (10), (11), (12), (13), (16) and (17) of the next succeeding paragraph), is less than the sum, without duplication, of
(a) 50% of the Consolidated Net Income of Warner Music for the period (taken as one accounting period) from the beginning of the first fiscal quarter commencing after the Issue Date, to the end of Warner Music's most recently ended fiscal quarter for which internal financial statements are available at the time of such Restricted Payment (or, in the case such Consolidated Net Income for such period is a deficit, minus 100% of such deficit), plus
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(b) 100% of the aggregate net cash proceeds and the fair market value, as determined in good faith by the Board of Directors of Warner Music, of property and marketable securities received by Warner Music after the Issue Date from the issue or sale of (x) Equity Interests of Warner Music (including Retired Capital Stock (as defined below) but excluding (i) cash proceeds and marketable securities received from Equity Offerings to the extent used to redeem Notes in compliance with the provisions set forth under the first paragraph of the caption "Optional Redemption", (ii) cash proceeds and marketable securities received from the sale of Equity Interests to members of management, directors or consultants of Warner Music, any direct or indirect parent corporation of Warner Music and the Subsidiaries after the Issue Date to the extent such amounts have been applied to Restricted Payments made in accordance with clause (4) of the next succeeding paragraph and, to the extent actually contributed to Warner Music, Equity Interests of Warner Music's direct or indirect parent corporations, (iii) Designated Preferred Stock and (iv) Disqualified Stock) or (y) debt securities of Warner Music that have been converted into such Equity Interests of Warner Music (other than Refunding Capital Stock (as defined below) or Equity Interests or convertible debt securities of Warner Music sold to a Restricted Subsidiary or Warner Music, as the case may be, and other than Disqualified Stock or Designated Preferred Stock or debt securities that have been converted into Disqualified Stock or Designated Preferred Stock), plus
(c) 100% of the aggregate amount of cash and the fair market value, as determined in good faith by the Board of Directors of Warner Music, of property and marketable securities contributed to the capital of Warner Music after the Issue Date (other than (i) net cash proceeds from Equity Offerings to the extent used to redeem Notes in compliance with the provisions set forth under the first paragraph of the caption "Optional Redemption", (ii) by a Restricted Subsidiary, (iii) any Excluded Contributions, (iv) any Disqualified Stock, (v) any Designated Preferred Stock and (vi) the Cash Contribution Amount) plus
(d) 100% of the aggregate amount received in cash and the fair market value, as determined in good faith by the Board of Directors of Warner Music, of property and marketable securities received by means of (A) the sale or other disposition (other than to Warner Music or a Restricted Subsidiary) of Restricted Investments made by Warner Music or its Restricted Subsidiaries and repurchases and redemptions of such Restricted Investments from Warner Music or its Restricted Subsidiaries and repayments of loans or advances which constitute Restricted Investments by Warner Music or its Restricted Subsidiaries or (B) the sale (other than to Warner Music or a Restricted Subsidiary) of the Capital Stock of an Unrestricted Subsidiary or a distribution from an Unrestricted Subsidiary (other than in each case to the extent the Investment in such Unrestricted Subsidiary was made by a Restricted Subsidiary pursuant to clause (7) or (11) of the next succeeding paragraph or to the extent such Investment constituted a Permitted Investment) or a dividend from an Unrestricted Subsidiary, plus
(e) in the case of the redesignation of an Unrestricted Subsidiary as a Restricted Subsidiary or the merger or consolidation of an Unrestricted Subsidiary into Warner Music or a Restricted Subsidiary or the transfer of assets of an Unrestricted Subsidiary to Warner Music or a Restricted Subsidiary, the fair market value of the Investment in such Unrestricted Subsidiary, as determined by the Board of Directors of Warner Music in good faith at the time of the redesignation of such Unrestricted Subsidiary as a Restricted Subsidiary or at the time of such merger, consolidation or transfer of assets (other than an Unrestricted Subsidiary to the extent the Investment in such Unrestricted Subsidiary was made by a Restricted Subsidiary pursuant to clause (7) or (11) of the next succeeding paragraph or to the extent such Investment constituted a Permitted Investment).
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The preceding provisions will not prohibit:
(1) the payment of any dividend within 60 days after the date of declaration thereof, if at the date of declaration such payment would have complied with the provisions of the Indenture;
(2) (A) the redemption, repurchase, retirement or other acquisition of any Equity Interests of Warner Music or any direct or indirect parent corporation ("Retired Capital Stock") or Indebtedness subordinated to the Notes in exchange for or out of the proceeds of the substantially concurrent sale (other than to a Restricted Subsidiary or Warner Music) of Equity Interests of Warner Music or any direct or indirect parent corporation thereof or contributions to the equity capital of Warner Music (in each case, other than Disqualified Stock) ("Refunding Capital Stock") and (B) the declaration and payment of dividends on the Retired Capital Stock out of the proceeds of the substantially concurrent sale (other than to a Subsidiary of Warner Music or to an employee stock ownership plan or any trust established by Warner Music or any of its Subsidiaries) of Refunding Capital Stock;
(3) the redemption, repurchase or other acquisition or retirement of Indebtedness subordinated to the Notes made by exchange for, or out of the proceeds of the substantially concurrent sale of, new Indebtedness of the borrower thereof which is incurred in compliance with the covenant "Incurrence of Indebtedness and Issuance of Preferred Stock" so long as (A) the principal amount of such new Indebtedness does not exceed the principal amount of the Indebtedness subordinated to the Notes being so redeemed, repurchased, acquired or retired for value plus related fees and expenses and the amount of any reasonable premium required to be paid under the terms of the instrument governing the Indebtedness subordinated to the Notes being so redeemed, repurchased, acquired or retired, (B) such new Indebtedness is subordinated to such Notes and any Guarantees thereof at least to the same extent as such Indebtedness subordinated to such Notes so purchased, exchanged, redeemed, repurchased, acquired or retired for value, (C) such new Indebtedness has a final scheduled maturity date equal to or later than the final scheduled maturity date of the Indebtedness subordinated to such Notes being so redeemed, repurchased, acquired or retired and (D) such new Indebtedness has a Weighted Average Life to Maturity equal to or greater than the remaining Weighted Average Life to Maturity of the Indebtedness subordinated to such Notes being so redeemed, repurchased, acquired or retired;
(4) a Restricted Payment to pay for the repurchase, retirement or other acquisition or retirement for value of common Equity Interests of Warner Music or any of its direct or indirect parent corporations held by any future, present or former employee, director or consultant of Warner Music, any of its Subsidiaries or any of its direct or indirect parent corporations pursuant to any management equity plan or stock option plan or any other management or employee benefit plan or agreement; provided, however, that the aggregate amount of Restricted Payments made under this clause (4) does not exceed in any calendar year $20 million (with unused amounts in any calendar year being carried over to the two succeeding calendar years); and provided, further, that such amount in any calendar year may be increased by an amount not to exceed (A) the cash proceeds from the sale of Equity Interests (other than Disqualified Stock) of Warner Music and, to the extent contributed to Warner Music, Equity Interests of any of its direct or indirect parent corporations, in each case to members of management, directors or consultants of Warner Music, any of its Subsidiaries or any of its direct or indirect parent corporations that occurs after the Issue Date plus (B) the amount of any cash bonuses otherwise payable to members of management, directors or consultants of Warner Music or any of its Subsidiaries or any of its direct or indirect parent corporations in connection with the Transactions that are foregone in return for the receipt of Equity Interests of Warner Music or any direct or indirect parent corporation of Warner Music pursuant to a deferred compensation plan of such corporation plus (C) the cash proceeds of key man life insurance policies received by Warner Music or its Restricted Subsidiaries after the Issue Date (provided that Warner Music may elect to apply all or
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any portion of the aggregate increase contemplated by clauses (A), (B) and (C) above in any calendar year) less (D) the amount of any Restricted Payments previously made pursuant to clauses (A), (B) and (C) of this clause (4);
(5) the declaration and payment of dividends to holders of any class or series of Disqualified Stock of Warner Music or any Restricted Subsidiary issued or incurred in accordance with this covenant to the extent such dividends are included in the definition of Fixed Charges for such entity;
(6) the declaration and payment of dividends or distributions to holders of any class or series of Designated Preferred Stock (other than Disqualified Stock) issued after the Issue Date and the declaration and payment of dividends to any direct or indirect parent company of Warner Music, the proceeds of which will be used to fund the payment of dividends to holders of any class or series of Designated Preferred Stock (other than Disqualified Stock) of any direct or indirect parent company of Warner Music issued after the Issue Date; provided, however, that (A) for the most recently ended four full fiscal quarters for which internal financial statements are available immediately preceding the date of issuance of such Designated Preferred Stock, after giving effect to such issuance (and the payment of dividends or distributions) on a pro forma basis, Warner Music would have had a Fixed Charge Coverage Ratio of at least 2.00 to 1.00 and (B) the aggregate amount of dividends declared and paid pursuant to this clause (6) does not exceed the net cash proceeds actually received by Warner Music from any such sale of Designated Preferred Stock (other than Disqualified Stock) issued after the Issue Date;
(7) Investments in Unrestricted Subsidiaries having an aggregate fair market value, taken together with all other Investments made pursuant to this clause (7) that are at the time outstanding, without giving effect to the sale of an Unrestricted Subsidiary to the extent the proceeds of such sale do not consist of cash and/or marketable securities, not to exceed the greater of $25.0 million and 2.0% of Consolidated Tangible Assets at the time of such Investment (with the fair market value of each Investment being measured at the time made and without giving effect to subsequent changes in value);
(8) repurchases of Equity Interests deemed to occur upon exercise of stock options or warrants if such Equity Interests represent a portion of the exercise price of such options or warrants;
(9) the payment of dividends on Warner Music's common stock following the first public offering of Warner Music's common stock or the common stock of any of its direct or indirect parent corporations after the Issue Date, of up to 6% per annum of the net cash proceeds received by or contributed to Warner Music in any past or future public offering, other than public offerings with respect to Warner Music's common stock registered on Form S-8 and other than any public sale constituting an Excluded Contribution;
(10) Investments that are made with Excluded Contributions;
(11) other Restricted Payments in an aggregate amount not to exceed $45.0 million;
(12) the declaration and payment of dividends to, or the making of loans to, Holdco in amounts required for such party to pay:
(A) franchise taxes and other fees, taxes and expenses required to maintain its corporate existence;
(B) federal, state and local income taxes to the extent such income taxes are attributable to the income of Warner Music and the Restricted Subsidiaries and, to the extent of the amount actually received from the Unrestricted Subsidiaries, in amounts required to pay such taxes to the extent attributable to the income of the Unrestricted Subsidiaries, provided, however, that in each case the amount of such payments in any fiscal year does not exceed the
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amount that Warner Music and the Restricted Subsidiaries would be required to pay in respect of federal, state and local taxes for such fiscal year were Warner Music and the Restricted Subsidiaries to pay such taxes as a stand-alone taxpayer;
(C) customary salary, bonus and other benefits payable to officers and employees of any direct or indirect parent corporation of Warner Music to the extent such salaries, bonuses and other benefits are attributable to the ownership or operation of Warner Music and its Restricted Subsidiaries;
(D) general corporate overhead expenses (including professional expenses) for any direct or indirect parent corporation of Warner Music to the extent such expenses are solely attributable to the ownership or operation of Warner Music and its Restricted Subsidiaries; and
(E) to pay fees and expenses other than to Affiliates related to any unsuccessful equity or debt offering permitted by the Indenture;
(13) cash dividends or other distributions on Holdco's, Warner Music's or any Restricted Subsidiary's Capital Stock used to, or the making of loans, the proceeds of which will be used to, fund the payment of fees and expenses incurred in connection with the Transactions, this offering or owed to Affiliates, in each case to the extent permitted by the covenant described under "Transactions with Affiliates";
(14) distributions or payments of Securitization Fees and purchases of Securitization Assets pursuant to a Securitization Repurchase Obligation in connection with a Qualified Securitization Financing;
(15) the repurchase, redemption or other acquisition or retirement for value of any Subordinated Indebtedness pursuant to the provisions similar to those described under the captions "Repurchase at the Option of HoldersChange of Control" and "Asset Sales"; provided that a Change of Control Offer or Asset Sale Offer, as applicable, has been made and all Notes tendered by holders of the Notes in connection with a Change of Control Offer or Asset Sale Offer, as applicable, have been repurchased, redeemed or acquired for value;
(16) any Restricted Payment, at any time prior to April 15, 2009 if immediately after giving pro forma effect to such Restricted Payment pursuant to this clause (16) and the incurrence of any Indebtedness the net proceeds of which are used to finance such Restricted Payment:
(A) the Net Indebtedness to EBITDA Ratio of Warner Music would not have exceeded 3.75 to 1; and
(B) the Net Senior Indebtedness to EBITDA Ratio of Warner Music would not have exceeded 2.50 to 1; or
(17) the declaration and payment of dividends to Holdco of up to $200.0 million of the net proceeds received by Warner Music from the sale of the Notes on the Issue Date, the proceeds of which will be used as described in the prospectus;
provided, however, that at the time of, and after giving effect to, any Restricted Payment permitted under clauses (2), (5), (6), (7), (9), (11), (14), (15) and (16) above, no Default or Event of Default shall have occurred and be continuing or would occur as a consequence thereof.
The amount of all Restricted Payments (other than cash) will be the fair market value on the date of the Restricted Payment of the asset(s) or securities proposed to be transferred or issued by Warner Music or such Subsidiary, as the case may be, pursuant to the Restricted Payment. The fair market value of any assets or securities that are required to be valued by this covenant will be determined in good faith by the Board of Directors of Warner Music. Warner Music's determination must be based
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upon an opinion or appraisal issued by an Independent Financial Advisor if the fair market value exceeds $25.0 million.
As of the Issue Date, all of Warner Music's Subsidiaries will be Restricted Subsidiaries. Warner Music will not permit any Unrestricted Subsidiary to become a Restricted Subsidiary except pursuant to the second to last sentence of the definition of Unrestricted Subsidiary. For purposes of designating any Restricted Subsidiary as an Unrestricted Subsidiary, all outstanding investments by Warner Music and the Restricted Subsidiaries (except to the extent repaid) in the Subsidiary so designated will be deemed to be Restricted Payments in an amount determined as set forth in the second paragraph of the definition of Investments. Such designation will be permitted only if a Restricted Payment in such amount would be permitted at such time under this covenant or the definition of Permitted Investments and if such Subsidiary otherwise meets the definition of an Unrestricted Subsidiary. Unrestricted Subsidiaries will not be subject to any of the restrictive covenants described in this prospectus.
Incurrence of Indebtedness and Issuance of Preferred Stock
Warner Music will not, and will not permit any of its Restricted Subsidiaries to, directly or indirectly, create, incur, issue, assume, guarantee or otherwise become directly or indirectly liable, contingently or otherwise, with respect to (collectively, "incur") any Indebtedness (including Acquired Debt), and Warner Music will not permit any of its Restricted Subsidiaries to issue any shares of Preferred Stock; provided, however, that Warner Music and any Restricted Subsidiary that is a Guarantor may incur Indebtedness (including Acquired Debt) and any Restricted Subsidiary that is a Guarantor may issue Preferred Stock if the Fixed Charge Coverage Ratio for Warner Music's most recently ended four full fiscal quarters for which internal financial statements are available immediately preceding the date on which such additional Indebtedness is incurred or such Preferred Stock is issued would have been at least 2.0 to 1, determined on a pro forma basis (including a pro forma application of the net proceeds therefrom), as if the additional Indebtedness had been incurred or the Preferred Stock had been issued, as the case may be, and the application of proceeds therefrom had occurred at the beginning of such four-quarter period.
The first paragraph of this covenant will not prohibit the incurrence of any of the following (collectively, "Permitted Debt"):
(1) the existence of Indebtedness under the Credit Agreement together with the incurrence of the guarantees thereunder and the issuance and creation of letters of credit and bankers' acceptances thereunder (with letters of credit and bankers' acceptances being deemed to have a principal amount equal to the face amount thereof), up to an aggregate principal amount, together with amounts outstanding under a Qualified Securitization Financing incurred pursuant to clause (17) below, of $1,550.0 million outstanding at any one time, less the amount of all mandatory principal payments (with respect to revolving borrowings and letters of credit, only to the extent revolving commitments are correspondingly reduced) actually made by the borrower thereunder in respect of Indebtedness thereunder with Net Proceeds from Asset Sales;
(2) the incurrence by Warner Music and the Guarantors of Indebtedness represented by the Notes (including any Guarantee) issued on the Issue Date;
(3) Existing Indebtedness (other than Indebtedness described in clauses (1) and (2));
(4) Indebtedness (including Capitalized Lease Obligations) incurred by Warner Music or any Restricted Subsidiary to finance the purchase, lease or improvement of property (real or personal) or equipment that is used or useful in a Permitted Business (whether through the direct purchase of assets or the Capital Stock of any Person owning such assets) in an aggregate principal amount that, when aggregated with the principal amount of all other Indebtedness then outstanding and
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incurred pursuant to this clause (4), does not exceed the greater of (x) $50.0 million and (y) 4.0% of Consolidated Tangible Assets;
(5) Indebtedness incurred by Warner Music or any Restricted Subsidiary constituting reimbursement obligations with respect to letters of credit issued in the ordinary course of business, including without limitation letters of credit in respect of workers' compensation claims, health, disability or other employee benefits or property, casualty or liability insurance or self-insurance or other Indebtedness with respect to reimbursement-type obligations regarding workers' compensation claims; provided, however, that upon the drawing of such letters of credit or the incurrence of such Indebtedness, such obligations are reimbursed within 30 days following such drawing or incurrence;
(6) Indebtedness arising from agreements of Warner Music or a Restricted Subsidiary providing for indemnification, adjustment of purchase price or similar obligations, in each case, incurred or assumed in connection with the disposition of any business, assets or a Subsidiary, other than guarantees of Indebtedness incurred by any Person acquiring all or any portion of such business, assets or a Subsidiary for the purpose of financing such acquisition; provided, however, that (A) such Indebtedness is not reflected on the balance sheet of Warner Music or any Restricted Subsidiary (contingent obligations referred to in a footnote to financial statements and not otherwise reflected on the balance sheet will not be deemed to be reflected on such balance sheet for purposes of this clause (A)) and (B) the maximum assumable liability in respect of all such Indebtedness shall at no time exceed the gross proceeds including noncash proceeds (the fair market value of such noncash proceeds being measured at the time received and without giving effect to any subsequent changes in value) actually received by Warner Music and any Restricted Subsidiaries in connection with such disposition;
(7) Indebtedness of Warner Music owed to and held by any Restricted Subsidiary or Indebtedness of a Restricted Subsidiary owed to and held by Warner Music or any Restricted Subsidiary; provided, however, that (A) any subsequent issuance or transfer of any Capital Stock or any other event that results in any such Restricted Subsidiary ceasing to be a Restricted Subsidiary or any subsequent transfer of any such Indebtedness (except to Warner Music or a Restricted Subsidiary) shall be deemed, in each case, to constitute the incurrence of such Indebtedness by the issuer thereof and (B) if Warner Music is the obligor on such Indebtedness, such Indebtedness is expressly subordinated to the prior payment in full in cash of all obligations of Warner Music with respect to the Notes;
(8) shares of Preferred Stock of a Restricted Subsidiary issued to Warner Music or a Restricted Subsidiary; provided that any subsequent issuance or transfer of any Capital Stock or any other event which results in any such Restricted Subsidiary ceasing to be a Restricted Subsidiary or any other subsequent transfer of any such shares of Preferred Stock (except to Warner Music or a Restricted Subsidiary) shall be deemed in each case to be an issuance of such shares of Preferred Stock;
(9) Hedging Obligations of Warner Music or any Restricted Subsidiary (excluding Hedging Obligations entered into for speculative purposes) for the purpose of limiting (A) interest rate risk with respect to any Indebtedness that is permitted by the terms of the Indenture to be outstanding or (B) exchange rate risk with respect to any currency exchange;
(10) obligations in respect of performance and surety bonds and performance and completion guarantees provided by Warner Music or any Restricted Subsidiary or obligations in respect of letters of credit related thereto, in each case in the ordinary course of business or consistent with past practice;
(11) Indebtedness of Warner Music or any Restricted Subsidiary or Preferred Stock of any Restricted Subsidiary not otherwise permitted hereunder in an aggregate principal amount or
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liquidation preference which, when aggregated with the principal amount and liquidation preference of all other Indebtedness and Preferred Stock then outstanding and incurred pursuant to this clause (11), does not at any one time outstanding exceed $150.0 million (it being understood that any Indebtedness or Preferred Stock incurred pursuant to this clause (11) shall cease to be deemed incurred or outstanding for purposes of this clause (11) but shall be deemed incurred for the purposes of the first paragraph of this covenant from and after the first date on which Warner Music or such Restricted Subsidiary could have incurred such Indebtedness or Preferred Stock under the first paragraph of this covenant without reliance on this clause (11));
(12) any guarantee by Warner Music or a Guarantor of Indebtedness or other obligations of any Restricted Subsidiary so long as the incurrence of such Indebtedness incurred by such Restricted Subsidiary is permitted under the terms of the Indenture; provided that if such Indebtedness is by its express terms subordinated in right of payment to the Notes or the Guarantee of such Restricted Subsidiary, as applicable, any such guarantee of such Guarantor with respect to such Indebtedness shall be subordinated in right of payment to such Guarantor's Guarantee with respect to the Notes substantially to the same extent as such Indebtedness is subordinated to the Notes or the Guarantee of such Restricted Subsidiary, as applicable;
(13) the incurrence by Warner Music or any Restricted Subsidiary of Indebtedness or Preferred Stock that serves to refund or refinance any Indebtedness incurred as permitted under the first paragraph of this covenant and clauses (2), (3) and (4) above, this clause (13) and clause (14) below or any Indebtedness issued to so refund or refinance such Indebtedness including additional Indebtedness incurred to pay premiums and fees in connection therewith (the "Refinancing Indebtedness") prior to its respective maturity; provided, however, that such Refinancing Indebtedness (A) has a Weighted Average Life to Maturity at the time such Refinancing Indebtedness is incurred which is not less than the remaining Weighted Average Life to Maturity of the Indebtedness being refunded or refinanced, (B) to the extent such Refinancing Indebtedness refinances Indebtedness subordinated or pari passu to the Notes, such Refinancing Indebtedness is subordinated or pari passu to the Notes at least to the same extent as the Indebtedness being refinanced or refunded, (C) shall not include (x) Indebtedness or Preferred Stock of a Subsidiary that is not a Guarantor that refinances Indebtedness or Preferred Stock of Warner Music or (y) Indebtedness or Preferred Stock of Warner Music or a Restricted Subsidiary that refinances Indebtedness or Preferred Stock of an Unrestricted Subsidiary, (D) shall not be in a principal amount in excess of the principal amount of, premium, if any, accrued interest on, and related fees and expenses of, the Indebtedness being refunded or refinanced and (E) shall not have a stated maturity date prior to the Stated Maturity of the Indebtedness being refunded or refinanced; and provided, further, that subclauses (A), (B) and (E) of this clause (13) will not apply to any refunding or refinancing of any Senior Debt;
(14) Indebtedness or Preferred Stock of Persons that are acquired by Warner Music or any Restricted Subsidiary or merged into Warner Music or a Restricted Subsidiary in accordance with the terms of the Indenture; provided that such Indebtedness or Preferred Stock is not incurred in connection with or in contemplation of such acquisition or merger; and provided, further, that after giving effect to such incurrence of Indebtedness either (A) Warner Music would be permitted to incur at least $1.00 of additional Indebtedness pursuant to the Fixed Charge Coverage Ratio test set forth in the first paragraph of this covenant or (B) the Fixed Charge Coverage Ratio would be greater than immediately prior to such acquisition;
(15) Indebtedness arising from the honoring by a bank or financial institution of a check, draft or similar instrument drawn against insufficient funds in the ordinary course of business; provided that such Indebtedness is extinguished within five business days of its incurrence;
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(16) Indebtedness of Warner Music or any Restricted Subsidiary of Warner Music supported by a letter of credit issued pursuant to the Credit Agreement in a principal amount not in excess of the stated amount of such letter of credit;
(17) Indebtedness incurred by a Securitization Subsidiary in a Qualified Securitization Financing that is not recourse to Warner Music or any Restricted Subsidiary of Warner Music other than a Securitization Subsidiary (except for Standard Securitization Undertakings);
(18) the incurrence of (A) Non-Recourse Acquisition Financing Indebtedness and (B) Non-Recourse Product Financing Indebtedness;
(19) Contribution Indebtedness;
(20) (a) if Warner Music could incur $1.00 of additional Indebtedness pursuant to the first paragraph hereof after giving effect to such borrowing, Indebtedness of Foreign Subsidiaries of Warner Music not otherwise permitted hereunder or (b) if Warner Music could not incur $1.00 of additional Indebtedness pursuant to the first paragraph hereof after giving effect to such borrowing, Indebtedness of Foreign Subsidiaries of Warner Music incurred for working capital purposes, provided, however, that the aggregate principal amount of Indebtedness incurred under this clause (20) which, when aggregated with the principal amount of all other Indebtedness then outstanding and incurred pursuant to this clause (20), does not exceed the greater of (x) $100.0 million and (y) 10% of the Consolidated Tangible Assets of the Foreign Subsidiaries; and
(21) Indebtedness consisting of promissory notes issued by Warner Music or any Guarantor to current or former officers, directors and employees, their respective estates, spouses or former spouses to finance the purchase or redemption of Equity Interests of Holdco permitted by the covenant described under the caption "Restricted Payments."
For purposes of determining compliance with this "Incurrence of Indebtedness and Issuance of Preferred Stock" covenant, in the event that an item of proposed Indebtedness meets the criteria of more than one of the categories of Permitted Debt described in clauses (1) through (21) above, or is entitled to be incurred pursuant to the first paragraph of this covenant, Warner Music will be permitted to classify and later reclassify such item of Indebtedness in any manner that complies with this covenant, and such item of Indebtedness will be treated as having been incurred pursuant to only one of such categories. Accrual of interest, the accretion of accreted value and the payment of interest in the form of additional Indebtedness will not be deemed to be an incurrence of Indebtedness for purposes of this covenant. Notwithstanding the foregoing, Indebtedness under the Credit Agreement outstanding on the date on which Notes are first issued and authenticated under the Indenture will be deemed to have been incurred on such date in reliance on the exception provided by clause (1) of the definition of Permitted Debt and Warner Music shall not be permitted to reclassify all or any portion of such Indebtedness. The maximum amount of Indebtedness that Warner Music and its Restricted Subsidiaries may incur pursuant to this covenant shall not be deemed to be exceeded, with respect to any outstanding Indebtedness, solely as a result of fluctuations in the exchange rate of currencies.
Limitation on Layering
The Indenture governing the Notes provides that Warner Music will not, and will not permit any Restricted Subsidiary that is a Guarantor to, directly or indirectly, incur any Indebtedness that is or purports to be by its terms (or by the terms of any agreement governing such Indebtedness) contractually subordinated or junior in right of payment to any Senior Debt (including Acquired Debt) of Warner Music or such Restricted Subsidiary, as the case may be, unless such Indebtedness is either
(1) pari passu in right of payment with the Notes; or
(2) subordinate in right of payment to the Notes.
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Liens
Warner Music will not, and will not permit any Restricted Subsidiary to, directly or indirectly, create, incur, assume or suffer to exist any Lien (other than Permitted Liens) that secures obligations under any Indebtedness ranking pari passu with or subordinated to the Notes or a related Guarantee of Warner Music on any asset or property of Warner Music or any Restricted Subsidiary, or any income or profits therefrom, or assign or convey any right to receive income therefrom, unless:
(1) in the case of Liens securing Indebtedness subordinated to the Notes, the Notes and any related Guarantees are secured by a Lien on such property, assets or proceeds that is senior in priority to such Liens; or
(2) in all other cases, the Notes are equally and ratably secured,
except that the foregoing shall not apply to:
(i) Liens existing on the Issue Date to the extent and in the manner such Liens are in effect on the Issue Date;
(ii) Liens securing the Notes and the related Guarantees, Liens securing Senior Debt and the related guarantees of such Senior Debt; and
(iii) Permitted Liens.
Dividend and Other Payment Restrictions Affecting Subsidiaries
Warner Music will not, and will not permit any of its Restricted Subsidiaries to, directly or indirectly, create or permit to exist or become effective any consensual encumbrance or restriction on the ability of any such Restricted Subsidiary to:
(1) pay dividends or make any other distributions on its Capital Stock to Warner Music or any of its Restricted Subsidiaries, or with respect to any other interest or participation in, or measured by, its profits, or pay any Indebtedness owed to Warner Music or any of its Restricted Subsidiaries;
(2) make loans or advances to Warner Music or any of its Restricted Subsidiaries; or
(3) sell, lease or transfer any of its properties or assets to Warner Music or any of its Restricted Subsidiaries.
However, the preceding restrictions will not apply to encumbrances or restrictions existing under or by reason of:
(1) contractual encumbrances or restrictions in effect (x) pursuant to the Credit Agreement or related documents or (y) on the Issue Date, including, without limitation, pursuant to Existing Indebtedness and related documentation;
(2) the Indenture and the Notes;
(3) purchase money obligations for property acquired in the ordinary course of business that impose restrictions of the nature discussed in clause (3) above in the first paragraph of this covenant on the property so acquired;
(4) applicable law or any applicable rule, regulation or order;
(5) any agreement or other instrument of a Person acquired by Warner Music or any Restricted Subsidiary in existence at the time of such acquisition (but not created in contemplation thereof), which encumbrance or restriction is not applicable to any Person, or the properties or assets of any Person, other than the Person, or the property or assets of the Person, so acquired;
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(6) contracts for the sale of assets, including without limitation, customary restrictions with respect to a Subsidiary pursuant to an agreement that has been entered into for the sale or disposition of all or substantially all of the Capital Stock or assets of such Subsidiary;
(7) secured Indebtedness otherwise permitted to be incurred pursuant to the covenants described under the captions "Incurrence of Indebtedness and Issuance of Preferred Stock" and "Liens" that limits the right of the debtor to dispose of the assets securing such Indebtedness;
(8) restrictions on cash or other deposits or net worth imposed by customers under contracts entered into in the ordinary course of business;
(9) other Indebtedness or Preferred Stock (i) of Warner Music or any Restricted Subsidiary that is a Guarantor that is incurred subsequent to the Issue Date pursuant to the covenant described under "Incurrence of Indebtedness and Issuance of Preferred Stock" or (ii) that is incurred by a Foreign Subsidiary of Warner Music subsequent to the Issue Date pursuant to clauses (1), (4), (11) or (20) of the second paragraph of the covenant described under "Incurrence of Indebtedness and Issuance of Preferred Stock";
(10) customary provisions in joint venture agreements and other similar agreements entered into in the ordinary course of business;
(11) customary provisions contained in leases, subleases, licenses or asset sale agreements and other agreements;
(12) any encumbrances or restrictions of the type referred to in clauses (1), (2) and (3) of the first paragraph above imposed by any amendments, modifications, restatements, renewals, increases, supplements, refundings, replacements or refinancings of the contracts, instruments or obligations referred to in clauses (1) through (11) above; provided that such amendments, modifications, restatements, renewals, increases, supplements, refundings, replacements or refinancings are, in the good faith judgment of Warner Music's Board of Directors, no more restrictive with respect to such dividend and other payment restrictions than those contained in the dividend or other payment restrictions prior to such amendment, modification, restatement, renewal, increase, supplement, refunding, replacement or refinancing;
(13) any encumbrance or restriction of a Securitization Subsidiary effected in connection with a Qualified Securitization Financing; provided, however, that such restrictions apply only to such Securitization Subsidiary; or
(14) any encumbrance or restriction in connection with Non-Recourse Product Financing Indebtedness or Non-Recourse Acquisition Financing Indebtedness.
Merger, Consolidation or Sale of Assets
Warner Music may not, directly or indirectly: (1) consolidate or merge with or into another Person (whether or not Warner Music is the surviving corporation); or (2) sell, assign, transfer, convey or otherwise dispose of all or substantially all of the properties or assets of Warner Music and its Subsidiaries taken as a whole, in one or more related transactions, to another Person; unless:
(1) either: (a) Warner Music is the surviving corporation; or (b) the Person formed by or surviving any such consolidation or merger (if other than Warner Music) or to which such sale, assignment, transfer, conveyance or other disposition has been made is a corporation organized or existing under the laws of the United States, any state of the United States, the District of Columbia or any territory thereof (Warner Music or such Person, as the case may be, being herein called the "Successor Company");
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(2) the Successor Company (if other than Warner Music) or the Person to which such sale, assignment, transfer, conveyance or other disposition has been made assumes all the obligations of Warner Music under the Notes, the Indenture and the registration rights agreement pursuant to agreements reasonably satisfactory to the Trustee;
(3) immediately after such transaction no Default or Event of Default exists;
(4) immediately after giving pro forma effect to such transaction and any related financing transactions, as if the same had occurred at the beginning of the applicable four-quarter period, either
(a) the Successor Company or the Person to which such sale, assignment, transfer, conveyance or other disposition has been made would be permitted to incur at least $1.00 of additional Indebtedness pursuant to the Fixed Charge Coverage Ratio test set forth in the first paragraph of the covenant described under "Certain CovenantsIncurrence of Indebtedness and Issuance of Preferred Stock"; or
(b) the Fixed Charge Coverage Ratio for the Successor Company and its Restricted Subsidiaries would be greater than such ratio for Warner Music and its Restricted Subsidiaries immediately prior to such transaction; and
(5) each Guarantor, unless it is the other party to the transactions described above, shall have by supplemental indenture confirmed that its Guarantee shall apply to such Person's obligations under the Indenture and the Notes.
The Indenture also provides for similar provisions relating to any consolidation, merger or sale, assignment, transfer, conveyance or disposal of all or substantially all of the properties or assets of a Guarantor.
This "Merger, Consolidation or Sale of Assets" covenant will not apply to a sale, assignment, transfer, conveyance or other disposition of assets between or among Warner Music and its Restricted Subsidiaries. Notwithstanding the foregoing clauses (3) and (4), (a) any Restricted Subsidiary may consolidate with, merge into or transfer all or part of its properties and assets to Warner Music or to another Restricted Subsidiary and (b) Warner Music may merge with an Affiliate incorporated solely for the purpose of reincorporating Warner Music in another state of the United States so long as the amount of Indebtedness of Warner Music and its Restricted Subsidiaries is not increased thereby.
Transactions with Affiliates
Warner Music will not, and will not permit any of its Restricted Subsidiaries to, make any payment to, or sell, lease, transfer or otherwise dispose of any of its properties or assets to, or purchase any property or assets from, or enter into or make or amend any transaction, contract, agreement, understanding, loan, advance or guarantee with, or for the benefit of, any Affiliate (each, an "Affiliate Transaction") involving aggregate consideration in excess of $5.0 million, unless:
(1) the Affiliate Transaction is on terms that are no less favorable to Warner Music or the relevant Restricted Subsidiary than those that would have been obtained in a comparable transaction by Warner Music or such Restricted Subsidiary with an unrelated Person; and
(2) Warner Music delivers to the Trustee:
(a) with respect to any Affiliate Transaction or series of related Affiliate Transactions involving aggregate consideration in excess of $15.0 million, a resolution of the Board of Directors approving such affiliate transaction set forth in an Officers' Certificate certifying that such Affiliate Transaction complies with this covenant and that such Affiliate Transaction has been approved by a majority of the disinterested members of the Board of Directors; and
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(b) with respect to any Affiliate Transaction or series of related Affiliate Transactions involving aggregate consideration in excess of $75.0 million, an opinion as to the fairness to the holders of such Affiliate Transaction from a financial point of view issued by an Independent Financial Advisor.
The following items will not be deemed to be Affiliate Transactions and, therefore, will not be subject to the provisions of the prior paragraph:
(1) transactions between or among Warner Music and/or any Restricted Subsidiary or any entity that becomes a Restricted Subsidiary as a result of such transaction;
(2) Restricted Payments (other than pursuant to clause (7) thereof) and Permitted Investments (other than pursuant to clauses (10), (11) and (15) thereof) permitted by the Indenture;
(3) the payment to the Sponsors and any of their Affiliates of annual management, consulting, monitoring and advisory fees pursuant to the Management Agreement in an aggregate amount in any fiscal year not to exceed $10.0 million and related reasonable expenses;
(4) the payment of reasonable and customary fees paid to, and indemnities provided on behalf of, officers, directors, employees or consultants of Warner Music, any of its direct or indirect parent corporations or any Restricted Subsidiary;
(5) the payments by Warner Music or any Restricted Subsidiary to the Sponsors and any of their Affiliates made for any financial advisory, financing, underwriting or placement services or in respect of other investment banking activities, including, without limitation, in connection with acquisitions or divestitures, which payments are approved by a majority of the members of the Board of Directors of Warner Music in good faith;
(6) transactions in which Warner Music or any Restricted Subsidiary delivers to the Trustee a letter from an Independent Financial Advisor stating that such transaction is fair to Warner Music or such Restricted Subsidiary from a financial point of view;
(7) payments or loans (or cancellations of loans) to employees or consultants of Warner Music or any of its direct or indirect parent corporations or any Restricted Subsidiary which are approved by a majority of the Board of Directors of Warner Music in good faith and which are otherwise permitted under the Indenture;
(8) payments made or performance under any agreement as in effect on the Issue Date (other than the Management Agreement and Stockholders Agreement, but including, without limitation, each of the other agreements entered into in connection with the Transactions) or any amendment thereto (so long as any such amendment is not less advantageous to the holders of the Notes in any material respect than the original agreement as in effect on the Issue Date);
(9) the existence of, or the performance by Warner Music or any of its Restricted Subsidiaries of its obligations under the terms of, the Stockholders Agreement (including any registration rights agreement or purchase agreements related thereto to which it is a party as of the Issue Date and any similar agreement that it may enter into thereafter); provided, however, that the existence of, or the performance by Warner Music or any of its Restricted Subsidiaries of its obligations under, any future amendment to the Stockholders Agreement or under any similar agreement entered into after the Issue Date shall only be permitted by this clause (9) to the extent that the terms of any such existing agreement together with all amendments thereto, taken as a whole, or new agreement are not otherwise more disadvantageous to holders of the Notes in any material respect than the original agreement as in effect on the Issue Date;
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(10) the Transactions and the payment of all fees and expenses related to the Transactions and the prepayment of $10.0 million in management fees for the fiscal year ended November 30, 2004;
(11) transactions with customers, clients, suppliers, or purchasers or sellers of goods or services, in each case in the ordinary course of business and otherwise in compliance with the terms of the Indenture that are fair to Warner Music or the Restricted Subsidiaries, in the reasonable determination of the members of the Board of Directors of Warner Music or the senior management thereof, or are on terms at least as favorable as might reasonably have been obtained at such time from an unaffiliated party;
(12) if otherwise permitted hereunder, the issuance of Equity Interests (other than Disqualified Stock) of Holdco to any Permitted Holder or to any director, officer, employee or consultant of Warner Music or Holdco or their Subsidiaries or of Warner Music to Holdco or to any Permitted Holder or to any director, officer, employee or consultant of Warner Music or Holdco or their Subsidiaries; and
(13) any transaction with a Securitization Subsidiary effected as part of a Qualified Securitization Financing.
Business Activities
Warner Music will not, and will not permit any Restricted Subsidiary (other than a Securitization Subsidiary) to, engage in any business other than Permitted Businesses, except to such extent as would not be material to Warner Music and its Subsidiaries taken as a whole.
Payments for Consent
Warner Music will not, and will not permit any of its Subsidiaries to, directly or indirectly, pay or cause to be paid any consideration to or for the benefit of any holder of Notes for or as an inducement to any consent, waiver or amendment of any of the terms or provisions of the Indenture or the Notes unless such consideration is offered to be paid and is paid to all holders of the Notes that consent, waive or agree to amend in the time frame set forth in the solicitation documents relating to such consent, waiver or agreement.
Additional Subsidiary Guarantees
The Indenture provides that Warner Music will cause each Restricted Subsidiary that is a Domestic Subsidiary (unless such Subsidiary is a Securitization Subsidiary) that:
(1) guarantees any Indebtedness of Warner Music or any of its Restricted Subsidiaries; or
(2) incurs any Indebtedness or issues any shares of Preferred Stock permitted to be incurred or issued pursuant to clause (1) or (11) of the definition of Permitted Debt or not permitted to be incurred by the covenant described under "Incurrence of Indebtedness and Issuance of Preferred Stock" to execute and deliver to the Trustee a supplemental indenture pursuant to which such Subsidiary will guarantee payment of the Notes. Each Guarantee will be limited to an amount not to exceed the maximum amount that can be guaranteed by that Restricted Subsidiary without rendering the Guarantee, as it relates to such Restricted Subsidiary, voidable under applicable law relating to fraudulent conveyance or fraudulent transfer or similar laws affecting the rights of creditors generally.
Each Guarantee shall be released in accordance with the provisions of the Indenture described under "Guarantees."
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Reports
Whether or not required by the Commission, so long as any Notes are outstanding, Warner Music will furnish to the holders of Notes, within the time periods specified in the Commission's rules and regulations:
(1) all quarterly and annual financial information that would be required to be contained in a filing with the Commission on Forms 10-Q and 10-K if Warner Music were required to file such Forms, including a "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations" and, with respect to the annual information only, a report on the annual financial statements by Warner Music's certified independent accountants; and
(2) all current reports that would be required to be filed with the Commission on Form 8-K if Warner Music were required to file such reports.
In addition, whether or not required by the Commission, Warner Music will file a copy of all of the information and reports referred to in clauses (1) and (2) above with the Commission for public availability within the time periods specified in the Commission's rules and regulations (unless the Commission will not accept such a filing) and make such information available to securities analysts and prospective investors upon request. In addition, Warner Music has agreed that, for so long as any Notes remain outstanding, it will furnish to the holders of the Notes and to securities analysts and prospective investors, upon their request, the information required to be delivered pursuant to Rule 144A(d)(4) under the Securities Act. All information described in this paragraph and the paragraph above can be obtained without charge at the office of the agent in Luxembourg so long as there are any outstanding Notes listed on the Luxembourg Stock Exchange.
In addition, if at any time Holdco becomes a Guarantor (there being no obligation of Holdco to do so), holds no material assets other than cash, Cash Equivalents and the Capital Stock of Warner Music (and performs the related incidental activities associated with such ownership) and complies with the requirements of Rule 3-10 of Regulation S-X promulgated by the Commission (or any successor provision), the reports, information and other documents required to be filed and furnished to holders of the Notes pursuant to this covenant may, at the option of Warner Music, be filed by and be those of Holdco rather than Warner Music.
Notwithstanding the foregoing, such requirements shall be deemed satisfied prior to the commencement of the Exchange Offers (as defined under "Exchange Offers; Registration Rights") or the effectiveness of the Shelf Registration Statement (as defined under "Exchange Offers; Registration Rights") by the filing with the Commission of the Exchange Offers Registration Statement (as defined under "Exchange Offers; Registration Rights") and/or Shelf Registration Statement, and any amendments thereto, with such financial information that satisfies Regulation S-X of the Securities Act.
Events of Default and Remedies
Under the Indenture, an Event of Default is defined as any of the following:
(1) Warner Music defaults in payment when due and payable, upon redemption, acceleration or otherwise, of principal of, or premium, if any, on the Notes, whether or not prohibited by the subordination provisions of the Indenture;
(2) Warner Music defaults in the payment when due of interest or Additional Interest, if any, on or with respect to the Notes and such default continues for a period of 30 days, whether or not prohibited by the subordination provisions of the Indenture;
(3) Warner Music defaults in the performance of, or breaches any covenant, warranty or other agreement contained in, the Indenture (other than a default in the performance or breach of
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a covenant, warranty or agreement which is specifically dealt with in clauses (1) or (2) above) and such default or breach continues for a period of 60 days after the notice specified below;
(4) default under any mortgage, indenture or instrument under which there is issued or by which there is secured or evidenced any Indebtedness for money borrowed by Warner Music or any Restricted Subsidiary or the payment of which is guaranteed by Warner Music or any Restricted Subsidiary (other than Indebtedness owed to Warner Music or a Restricted Subsidiary), whether such Indebtedness or guarantee now exists or is created after the Issue Date, if (A) such default either (1) results from the failure to pay any such Indebtedness at its stated final maturity (after giving effect to any applicable grace periods) or (2) relates to an obligation other than the obligation to pay principal of any such Indebtedness at its stated final maturity and results in the holder or holders of such Indebtedness causing such Indebtedness to become due prior to its stated maturity and (B) the principal amount of such Indebtedness, together with the principal amount of any other such Indebtedness in default for failure to pay principal at stated final maturity (after giving effect to any applicable grace periods), or the maturity of which has been so accelerated, aggregate $25.0 million (or its foreign currency equivalent) or more at any one time outstanding;
(5) certain events of bankruptcy affecting Warner Music or any Significant Subsidiary;
(6) the failure by Warner Music or any Significant Subsidiary to pay final judgments (other than any judgments covered by insurance policies issued by reputable and creditworthy insurance companies) aggregating in excess of $25.0 million, which final judgments remain unpaid, undischarged and unstayed for a period of more than 60 days after such judgment becomes final, and, with respect to any judgments covered by insurance, an enforcement proceeding has been commenced by any creditor upon such judgment or decree which is not promptly stayed; or
(7) the Guarantee of a Significant Subsidiary ceases to be in full force and effect (except as contemplated by the terms thereof) or any Guarantor denies or disaffirms its obligations under the Indenture or any Guarantee and such Default continues for 10 days.
If an Event of Default (other than an Event of Default specified in clause (5) above with respect to Warner Music) shall occur and be continuing, the Trustee or the holders of at least 25% in principal amount of outstanding Notes under the Indenture may declare the principal of and accrued interest on such Notes to be due and payable by notice in writing to Warner Music and the Trustee specifying the respective Event of Default and that it is a "notice of acceleration" (the "Acceleration Notice"), and the same:
(1) shall become immediately due and payable; or
(2) shall become immediately due and payable upon the first to occur of an acceleration under the Credit Agreement and five business days after receipt by Warner Music and the Representative under the Credit Agreement of such Acceleration Notice but only if such Event of Default is then continuing.
If an Event of Default specified in clause (5) above with respect to Warner Music occurs and is continuing, then all unpaid principal of, and premium, if any, and accrued and unpaid interest on all of the outstanding Notes shall ipso facto become and be immediately due and payable without any declaration or other act on the part of each Trustee or any holder of the Notes.
The Indenture provides that, at any time after a declaration of acceleration with respect to the Notes as described in the two preceding paragraphs, the holders of a majority in principal amount of the Notes may rescind and cancel such declaration and its consequences:
(1) if the rescission would not conflict with any judgment or decree;
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(2) if all existing Events of Default have been cured or waived except nonpayment of principal or interest that has become due solely because of the acceleration;
(3) to the extent the payment of such interest is lawful, interest on overdue installments of interest and overdue principal, which has become due otherwise than by such declaration of acceleration, has been paid;
(4) if Warner Music has paid the Trustee its reasonable compensation and reimbursed the Trustee for its expenses, disbursements and advances; and
(5) in the event of the cure or waiver of an Event of Default of the type described in clause (5) of the description above of Events of Default, the Trustee shall have received an Officers' Certificate and an opinion of counsel that such Event of Default has been cured or waived. No such rescission shall affect any subsequent Default or impair any right consequent thereto.
The holders of a majority in principal amount of the Notes issued and then outstanding under the Indenture may waive any existing Default or Event of Default under such Indenture, and its consequences, except a default in the payment of the principal of or interest on such Notes.
In the event of any Event of Default specified in clause (4) of the first paragraph above, such Event of Default and all consequences thereof (excluding, however, any resulting payment default) will be annulled, waived and rescinded, automatically and without any action by the Trustee or the holders of the Notes, if within 20 days after such Event of Default arose Warner Music delivers an Officers' Certificate to the Trustee stating that (x) the Indebtedness or guarantee that is the basis for such Event of Default has been discharged or (y) the holders thereof have rescinded or waived the acceleration, notice or action (as the case may be) giving rise to such Event of Default or (z) the default that is the basis for such Event of Default has been cured, it being understood that in no event shall an acceleration of the principal amount of the Notes as described above be annulled, waived or rescinded upon the happening of any such events.
Holders of the Notes may not enforce the Indenture or the Notes except as provided in the Indenture and under the Trust Indenture Act of 1939, as amended. Subject to the provisions of the Indenture relating to the duties of the Trustee, the Trustee is under no obligation to exercise any of its rights or powers under the Indenture at the request, order or direction of any of the holders of the Notes, unless such holders have offered to the Trustee reasonable indemnity. Subject to all provisions of the Indenture and applicable law, the holders of a majority in aggregate principal amount of the then outstanding Notes issued under such Indenture have the right to direct the time, method and place of conducting any proceeding for any remedy available to the Trustee or exercising any trust or power conferred on the Trustee.
Warner Music is required to deliver to the Trustee annually a statement regarding compliance with the Indenture. Upon becoming aware of any Default or Event of Default, Warner Music is required to deliver to the Trustee a statement specifying such Default or Event of Default.
No Personal Liability of Directors, Officers, Employees and Stockholders
No director, officer, employee, incorporator or stockholder of Warner Music or any direct or indirect parent corporation, as such, will have any liability for any obligations of Warner Music under the Notes, the Indenture, or for any claim based on, in respect of, or by reason of, such obligations or their creation. Each holder of Notes by accepting a Note waives and releases all such liability. The waiver and release are part of the consideration for issuance of the Notes. The waiver may not be effective to waive liabilities under the federal securities laws.
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Legal Defeasance and Covenant Defeasance
Warner Music may, at its option and at any time, elect to have all of its obligations and the obligations of the Guarantors discharged with respect to the outstanding Notes issued under the Indenture ("Legal Defeasance") except for:
(1) the rights of holders of outstanding Notes issued thereunder to receive payments in respect of the principal of, or interest or premium and Additional Interest, if any, on such Notes when such payments are due from the trust referred to below;
(2) Warner Music's obligations with respect to the Notes issued thereunder concerning issuing temporary Notes, registration of Notes, mutilated, destroyed, lost or stolen Notes and the maintenance of an office or agency for payment and money for security payments held in trust;
(3) the rights, powers, trusts, duties and immunities of the Trustee, and Warner Music's obligations in connection therewith; and
(4) the Legal Defeasance provisions of the Indenture.
In addition, Warner Music may, at its option and at any time, elect to have the obligations of Warner Music released with respect to certain covenants that are described in the Indenture ("Covenant Defeasance") and thereafter any omission to comply with those covenants will not constitute a Default or Event of Default with respect to the Notes issued thereunder. In the event Covenant Defeasance occurs, certain events (not including nonpayment, bankruptcy, receivership, rehabilitation and insolvency events of Warner Music but not its Restricted Subsidiaries) described under "Events of Default and Remedies" will no longer constitute an Event of Default with respect to the Notes issued thereunder.
In order to exercise either Legal Defeasance or Covenant Defeasance under the Indenture:
(1) Warner Music must irrevocably deposit with the Trustee, in trust, for the benefit of the holders of the Notes issued thereunder, cash in U.S. dollars or pounds sterling, as applicable, non-callable Government Securities, or a combination of cash in U.S. dollars or pounds sterling, as applicable and non-callable Government Securities, in amounts as will be sufficient, in the opinion of a nationally recognized firm of independent public accountants, to pay the principal of, or interest and premium and Additional Interest, if any, on the outstanding Notes issued thereunder on the stated maturity or on the applicable redemption date, as the case may be, and Warner Music must specify whether the Notes are being defeased to maturity or to a particular redemption date;
(2) in the case of Legal Defeasance, Warner Music has delivered to the Trustee an opinion of counsel reasonably acceptable to the Trustee confirming that (a) Warner Music has received from, or there has been published by, the Internal Revenue Service a ruling or (b) since the date of the Indenture, there has been a change in the applicable federal income tax law, in either case to the effect that, and based thereon such opinion of counsel will confirm that, the holders of the respective outstanding Notes will not recognize income, gain or loss for federal income tax purposes as a result of such Legal Defeasance and will be subject to federal income tax on the same amounts, in the same manner and at the same times as would have been the case if such Legal Defeasance had not occurred;
(3) in the case of Covenant Defeasance, Warner Music has delivered to the Trustee an opinion of counsel reasonably acceptable to the Trustee confirming that the holders of the respective outstanding Notes will not recognize income, gain or loss for federal income tax purposes as a result of such Covenant Defeasance and will be subject to federal income tax on the same amounts, in the same manner and at the same times as would have been the case if such Covenant Defeasance had not occurred;
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(4) no Default or Event of Default has occurred and is continuing on the date of such deposit (other than a Default or Event of Default resulting from the borrowing of funds to be applied to such deposit) or insofar as Events of Default resulting from the borrowing of funds or insolvency events are concerned, at any time in the period ending on the 91st day after the date of deposit;
(5) such Legal Defeasance or Covenant Defeasance will not result in a breach or violation of, or constitute a default under any material agreement or instrument (other than the Indenture) to which Warner Music or any of its Restricted Subsidiaries is a party or by which Warner Music or any of its Restricted Subsidiaries is bound;
(6) Warner Music must deliver to the Trustee an Officers' Certificate stating that the deposit was not made by Warner Music with the intent of preferring the holders of Notes over the other creditors of Warner Music with the intent of defeating, hindering, delaying or defrauding creditors of Warner Music or others; and
(7) Warner Music must deliver to the Trustee an Officers' Certificate and an opinion of counsel, each stating tha t all conditions precedent relating to the Legal Defeasance or the Covenant Defeasance have been complied with.
Amendment, Supplement and Waiver
Except as provided in the next two succeeding paragraphs, the Indenture or the Notes issued thereunder may be amended or supplemented with the consent of the holders of at least a majority in principal amount of the Notes then outstanding issued thereunder (including, without limitation, consents obtained in connection with a purchase of, or tender offer or exchange offer for, Notes), and any existing default or compliance with any provision of the Indenture or the Notes issued thereunder may be waived, with the consent of the holders of a majority in principal amount of the then outstanding Notes issued thereunder (including, without limitation, consents obtained in connection with a purchase of, or tender offer or exchange offer for, Notes); provided, however, that if any amendment, waiver or other modification will only affect the Dollar Notes or the Sterling Notes, only the consent of the holders of at least a majority in principal amount of the then outstanding Dollar Notes or Sterling Notes (and not the consent of at least a majority of all Notes), as the case may be, shall be required.
Without the consent of each holder affected, an amendment or waiver of the Indenture may not (with respect to any Notes held by a non-consenting holder):
(1) reduce the principal amount of Notes issued thereunder whose holders must consent to an amendment, supplement or waiver;
(2) reduce the principal of or change the fixed maturity of any Note or alter the provisions with respect to the redemption of the Notes issued thereunder (other than provisions relating to the covenants described above under the caption "Repurchase at the Option of Holders");
(3) reduce the rate of or change the time for payment of interest on any Note issued thereunder;
(4) waive a Default or Event of Default in the payment of principal of, or interest or premium, or Additional Interest, if any, on the Notes issued thereunder (except a rescission of acceleration of the Notes issued thereunder by the holders of at least a majority in aggregate principal amount of the Notes issued thereunder and a waiver of the payment default that resulted from such acceleration);
(5) make any Note payable in money other than that stated in the Notes other than to the extent that the United Kingdom adopts the euro;
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(6) make any change in the provisions of the Indenture relating to waivers of past Defaults or the rights of holders of Notes to receive payments of principal of, or interest or premium or Additional Interest, if any, on the Notes issued thereunder;
(7) waive a redemption payment with respect to any Note issued thereunder (other than a payment required by one of the covenants described above under the caption "Repurchase at the Option of Holders");
(8) make any change in the preceding amendment and waiver provisions; or
(9) modify the Guarantees in any manner adverse to the holders of the Notes.
Notwithstanding the preceding, without the consent of any holder of Notes, Warner Music, the Guarantors and the Trustee may amend or supplement the Indenture or the Notes issued thereunder:
(1) to cure any ambiguity, defect or inconsistency;
(2) to provide for uncertificated Notes in addition to or in place of certificated Notes;
(3) to provide for the assumption of Warner Music's obligations to holders of Notes in the case of a merger or consolidation or sale of all or substantially all of Warner Music's assets;
(4) to make any change that would provide any additional rights or benefits to the holders of Notes or that does not adversely affect the legal rights under the Indenture of any such holder;
(5) to comply with requirements of the Commission in order to effect or maintain the qualification of the Indenture under the Trust Indenture Act; or
(6) to add a Guarantee of the Notes, including, without limitation, by Holdco.
Satisfaction and Discharge
The Indenture will be discharged and will cease to be of further effect as to all Notes issued thereunder, when:
(1) either:
(a) all Notes that have been authenticated, except lost, stolen or destroyed Notes that have been replaced or paid and Notes for whose payment money has been deposited in trust and thereafter repaid to Warner Music, have been delivered to the Trustee for cancellation; or
(b) all Notes that have not been delivered to the Trustee for cancellation have become due and payable by reason of the mailing of a notice of redemption or otherwise or will become due and payable by reason of the mailing of a notice of redemption or otherwise within one year and Warner Music has irrevocably deposited or caused to be deposited with the Trustee as trust funds in trust solely for the benefit of the holders, cash in U.S. dollars, non-callable Government Securities, or a combination of cash in U.S. dollars and non-callable Government Securities, in amounts as will be sufficient without consideration of any reinvestment of interest, to pay and discharge the entire Indebtedness on the Notes not delivered to the Trustee for cancellation for principal, premium and Additional Interest, if any, and accrued interest to the date of maturity or redemption;
(2) no Default or Event of Default has occurred and is continuing on the date of the deposit or will occur as a result of the deposit (other than a Default resulting from borrowing of funds to be applied to such deposit) and the deposit will not result in a breach or violation of, or constitute a default under, any other material instrument to which Warner Music is a party or by which Warner Music is bound;
(3) Warner Music has paid or caused to be paid all sums payable by it under the Indenture; and
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(4) Warner Music has delivered irrevocable instructions to the Trustee under the Indenture to apply the deposited money toward the payment of the Notes issued thereunder at maturity or the redemption date, as the case may be.
In addition, Warner Music must deliver an Officers' Certificate and an opinion of counsel to the Trustee stating that all conditions precedent to satisfaction and discharge have been satisfied.
Judgment Currency
Any payment on account of any amount that is payable in U.S. dollars with respect to the Dollar Notes and pounds sterling with respect to the Sterling Notes (in each case, the "Required Currency") which is made to or for the account of any holder of the Notes or the Trustee in lawful currency of any other jurisdiction (the "Judgment Currency"), whether as a result of any judgment or order or the enforcement thereof or the liquidation of Warner Music or any Guarantor, shall constitute a discharge of Warner Music or the Guarantor's obligation under the Indenture and the Notes, as the case may be, only to the extent of the amount of the Required Currency with such holder of the Notes or the Trustee, as the case may be, could purchase in the New York foreign exchange markets with the amount of the Judgment Currency in accordance with normal banking procedures at the rate of exchange prevailing on the first business day following receipt of the payment in the Judgment Currency. If the amount of the Required Currency that could be so purchased is less than the amount of the Required Currency originally due to such holder of the Notes or the Trustee, as the case may be, Warner Music shall indemnify and hold harmless the holder of the Notes or the Trustee, as the case may be, from and against all loss or damage arising out of, or as a result of, such deficiency. This indemnity shall constitute an obligation separate and independent from the other obligations contained in the Indenture or the Notes, shall give rise to a separate and independent cause of action, shall apply irrespective of any indulgence granted by any holder of the Notes or the Trustee from time to time and shall continue in full force and effect notwithstanding any judgment or order for a liquidated sum in respect of an amount due hereunder or under any judgment or order.
Payments on the Notes; Substitution of the Currency
Pursuant to the Treaty establishing the European Community, as amended by the Treaty on European Union, signed at Maastricht on February 7, 1992, the euro was introduced on January 1, 1999, in substitution for national currencies of eleven member states of the European Union. Although the United Kingdom exercised its op-out right and is not participating in the introduction of the euro as of the date of this prospectus, it might wish to join the single currency at a later date. In accordance with the laws of the State of New York, the Indenture provides that the introduction of the euro in substitution for the sterling will not have the effect of discharging or excusing performance under the Indenture or the Notes or give Warner Music or any holder the right to unilaterally alter or terminate the Indenture or the Notes.
Listing
Application has been made to list the Sterling Notes on the Luxembourg Stock Exchange. The legal notice relating to the issuance of the Notes and the Certificate of Incorporation of Warner Music will be registered prior to the listing with the Registre de Commerce des Sociétés à Luxembourg, where such documents are available for inspection and where copies thereof can be obtained upon request. As long as the Notes are listed on the Luxembourg Stock Exchange, an agent for making payments on, and transfers of, Notes will be maintained in Luxembourg. Warner Music has initially designated Dexia Banque Internationale à Luxembourg as its agent for those purposes. The address of Dexia Banque Internationale à Luxembourg is 69, Route d'Esch, L-2953, Luxembourg.
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Notices
All notices to the holders will be valid if published in a leading English language daily newspaper published in London and a leading English language daily newspaper published in New York City or such other English language daily newspaper with general circulation in Europe or the U.S., as the case may be, and if, and for so long as, the Notes are listed on the Luxembourg Stock Exchange, in one daily newspaper published in Luxembourg. Any notice will be deemed to have been given on the date of publication or, if so published more than once on different dates, on the date of first publication. It is expected that publication will normally be made in the Financial Times, the Wall Street Journal and if, and for so long as, the Notes are listed on the Luxembourg Stock Exchange and its rules so require, the Luxemburger Wort. If publication as provided above is not practicable, notice will be given in such other manner, and shall be deemed to have been given on such date, as the Trustee may approve.
Concerning the Trustee
If the Trustee becomes a creditor of Warner Music, the Indenture limits its right to obtain payment of claims in certain cases, or to realize on certain property received in respect of any such claim as security or otherwise. The Trustee will be permitted to engage in other transactions; however, if it acquires any conflicting interest it must eliminate such conflict within 90 days, apply to the Commission for permission to continue or resign.
The holders of a majority in principal amount of the then outstanding Notes issued under the Indenture will have the right to direct the time, method and place of conducting any proceeding for exercising any remedy available to the Trustee, subject to certain exceptions. The Indenture provides that in case an Event of Default occurs and is continuing, the Trustee will be required, in the exercise of its power, to use the degree of care of a prudent man in the conduct of his own affairs. Subject to such provisions, the Trustee will be under no obligation to exercise any of its rights or powers under the Indenture at the request of any holder of Notes, unless such holder has offered to the Trustee security and indemnity satisfactory to it against any loss, liability or expense.
Certain Definitions
Set forth below are certain defined terms used in the Indenture. Reference is made to the Indenture for a full disclosure of all such terms, as well as any other capitalized terms used herein for which no definition is provided.
"Acquired Debt" means, with respect to any specified Person:
(1) Indebtedness of any other Person existing at the time such other Person is merged with or into or became a Restricted Subsidiary of such specified Person, including Indebtedness incurred in connection with, or in contemplation of, such other Person merging with or into, or becoming a Restricted Subsidiary of, such specified Person; and
(2) Indebtedness secured by an existing Lien encumbering any asset acquired by such specified Person.
"Affiliate" of any specified Person means any other Person directly or indirectly controlling or controlled by or under direct or indirect common control with such specified Person. For purposes of this definition, "control" (including, with correlative meanings, the terms "controlling," "controlled by" and "under common control with"), as used with respect to any Person, shall mean the possession, directly or indirectly, of the power to direct or cause the direction of the management or policies of such Person, whether through the ownership of voting securities, by agreement or otherwise.
"Applicable Premium" means, with respect to any Note on any applicable redemption date, the greater of:
(1) 1.0% of the then outstanding principal amount of the Note; and
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(2) the excess of:
(a) the present value at such redemption date of (i) the redemption price of the Dollar Note or Sterling Note, as applicable, at April 15, 2009 such redemption price being set forth in the table appearing above under the caption "Optional Redemption") plus (ii) all required interest payments due on the Dollar Note or Sterling Note, as applicable, through April 15, 2009 (excluding accrued but unpaid interest), computed using a discount rate equal to the Treasury Rate as of such redemption date plus 50 basis points; over
(b) the then outstanding principal amount of the Note.
"Asset Sale" means (i) the sale, conveyance, transfer or other disposition (whether in a single transaction or a series of related transactions) of property or assets (including by way of a sale and leaseback) of Warner Music or any Restricted Subsidiary (each referred to in this definition as a "disposition") or (ii) the issuance or sale of Equity Interests of any Restricted Subsidiary (whether in a single transaction or a series of related transactions), in each case, other than:
(1) a disposition of Cash Equivalents or obsolete or worn out property or equipment in the ordinary course of business or inventory (or other assets) held for sale in the ordinary course of business and dispositions of property no longer used or useful in the conduct of the business of Warner Music and its Restricted Subsidiaries;
(2) the disposition of all or substantially all of the assets of Warner Music in a manner permitted pursuant to the covenant contained under the caption "Certain CovenantsMerger, Consolidation or Sale of Assets" or any disposition that constitutes a Change of Control pursuant to the Indenture;
(3) the making of any Restricted Payment or Permitted Investment that is permitted to be made, and is made, pursuant to the covenant contained under the caption "Certain CovenantsRestricted Payments" or the granting of a Lien permitted by the covenant contained under the caption "Certain CovenantsLiens";
(4) any disposition of assets or issuance or sale of Equity Interests of any Restricted Subsidiary in any transaction or series of transactions with an aggregate fair market value of less than $10.0 million;
(5) any disposition of property or assets or issuance of securities by a Restricted Subsidiary to Warner Music or by Warner Music or a Restricted Subsidiary to another Restricted Subsidiary;
(6) the lease, assignment, sublease, license or sublicense of any real or personal property in the ordinary course of business;
(7) any sale of Equity Interests in, or Indebtedness or other securities of, an Unrestricted Subsidiary (with the exception of Investments in Unrestricted Subsidiaries acquired pursuant to clause (11) of the definition of "Permitted Investments");
(8) foreclosures on assets;
(9) disposition of an account receivable in connection with the collection or compromise thereof;
(10) sales of Securitization Assets and related assets of the type specified in the definition of "Securitization Financing" to a Securitization Subsidiary in connection with any Qualified Securitization Financing; and
(11) a transfer of Securitization Assets and related assets of the type specified in the definition of "Securitization Financing" (or a fractional undivided interest therein) by a Securitization Subsidiary in a Qualified Securitization Financing.
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"Beneficial Owner" has the meaning assigned to such term in Rule 13d-3 and Rule 13d-5 under the Exchange Act, except that in calculating the beneficial ownership of any particular "person" (as that term is used in Section 13(d)(3) of the Exchange Act), such "person" will be deemed to have beneficial ownership of all securities that such "person" has the right to acquire by conversion or exercise of other securities, whether such right is currently exercisable or is exercisable only upon the occurrence of a subsequent condition. The terms "Beneficially Owns" and "Beneficially Owned" have a corresponding meaning.
"Board of Directors" means:
(1) with respect to a corporation, the board of directors of the corporation;
(2) with respect to a partnership, the Board of Directors of the general partner of the partnership; and
(3) with respect to any other Person, the board or committee of such Person serving a similar function.
"Capital Stock" means:
(1) in the case of a corporation, capital stock;
(2) in the case of an association or business entity, any and all shares, interests, participations, rights or other equivalents (however designated) of capital stock;
(3) in the case of a partnership or limited liability company, partnership or membership interests (whether general or limited); and
(4) any other interest or participation that confers on a Person the right to receive a share of the profits and losses of, or distributions of assets of, the issuing Person.
"Capitalized Lease Obligation" means, at the time any determination thereof is to be made, the amount of the liability in respect of a capital lease that would at such time be required to be capitalized and reflected as a liability on a balance sheet (excluding the footnotes thereto) in accordance with GAAP.
"Cash Contribution Amount" means the aggregate amount of cash contributions made to the capital of Warner Music or any Guarantor described in the definition of "Contribution Indebtedness."
"Cash Equivalents" means:
(1) U.S. dollars, pounds sterling, euros, or, in the case of any Foreign Subsidiary, such local currencies held by it from time to time in the ordinary course of business;
(2) securities issued or directly and fully and unconditionally guaranteed or insured by the government or any agency or instrumentality of the United States or any member nation of the European Union having maturities of not more than 12 months from the date of acquisition;
(3) certificates of deposit, time deposits and eurodollar time deposits with maturities of 12 months or less from the date of acquisition, bankers' acceptances with maturities not exceeding 12 months and overnight bank deposits, in each case, with any lender party to the Credit Agreement or with any commercial bank having capital and surplus in excess of $500,000,000;
(4) repurchase obligations for underlying securities of the types described in clauses (2) and (3) above entered into with any financial institution meeting the qualifications specified in clause (3) above;
(5) commercial paper maturing within 12 months after the date of acquisition and having a rating of at least A-1 from Moody's or P-1 from S&P;
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(6) investment funds at least 95% of the assets of which constitute Cash Equivalents of the kinds described in clauses (1) through (5) of this definition; and
(7) readily marketable direct obligations issued by any state of the United States or any political subdivision thereof having one of the two highest rating categories obtainable from either Moody's or S&P with maturities of 12 months or less from the date of acquisition.
"Change of Control" means the occurrence of any of the following:
(1) the sale, lease, transfer or other conveyance, in one or a series of related transactions, of all or substantially all of the assets of Warner Music and its Subsidiaries, taken as a whole, to any Person other than a Permitted Holder;
(2) Warner Music becomes aware of (by way of a report or any other filing pursuant to Section 13(d) of the Exchange Act, proxy, vote, written notice or otherwise) the acquisition by any Person or group (within the meaning of Section 13(d)(3) or Section 14(d)(2) of the Exchange Act, or any successor provision), including any group acting for the purpose of acquiring, holding or disposing of securities (within the meaning of Rule 13d-5(b)(1) under the Exchange Act), other than the Permitted Holders, in a single transaction or in a related series of transactions, by way of merger, consolidation or other business combination or purchase of beneficial ownership (within the meaning of Rule 13d-3 under the Exchange Act, or any successor provision), of 50% or more of the total voting power of the Voting Stock of Warner Music or any of its direct or indirect parent corporations; or
(3) (A) prior to the first public offering of common stock of either Holdco or Warner Music, the first day on which the Board of Directors of Holdco shall cease to consist of a majority of directors who (i) were members of the Board of Directors of Holdco on the Issue Date or (ii) were either (x) nominated for election by the Board of Directors of Holdco, a majority of whom were directors on the Issue Date or whose election or nomination for election was previously approved by a majority of such directors, or (y) designated or appointed by a Permitted Holder (each of the directors selected pursuant to clauses (A)(i) and (A)(ii), "Continuing Directors") and (B) after the first public offering of common stock of either Holdco or Warner Music, (i) if such public offering is of Holdco common stock, the first day on which a majority of the members of the Board of Directors of Holdco are not Continuing Directors or (ii) if such public offering is of Warner Music's common stock, the first day on which a majority of the members of the Board of Directors of Warner Music are not Continuing Directors.
"Cinram Adjustment" means cost savings and other adjustments to Warner Music from the disposition of its DVD and CD manufacturing, printing, packaging, physical distribution and merchandising businesses to Cinram International, Inc, which was consummated on October 24, 2003, and the associated long-term supply contract with Cinram for physical product and distribution.
"Code" means the United States Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended from time to time, and the regulations promulgated and rulings issued thereunder. Section references to the Code are to the Code, as in effect on the Issue Date, and any subsequent provisions of the Code, amendatory thereof, supplemental thereto or substituted therefor.
"Commission" means the Securities and Exchange Commission.
"Consolidated Depreciation and Amortization Expense" means, with respect to any Person for any period, the total amount of depreciation and amortization expense, including the amortization of deferred financing fees, and other noncash charges (excluding any noncash item that represents an accrual or reserve for a cash expenditure for a future period), of such Person and its Restricted Subsidiaries for such period on a consolidated basis and otherwise determined in accordance with GAAP.
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"Consolidated Interest Expense" means, with respect to any Person for any period, the sum, without duplication, of: (a) consolidated interest expense of such Person and its Restricted Subsidiaries for such period (including amortization of original issue discount, noncash interest payments (other than imputed interest as a result of purchase accounting), the interest component of Capitalized Lease Obligations, net payments (if any) pursuant to interest rate Hedging Obligations, but excluding amortization of deferred financing fees or expensing of any bridge or other financing fees relating to the Specified Financings) and (b) consolidated capitalized interest of such Person and its Restricted Subsidiaries for such period, whether paid or accrued, less (c) interest income actually received in cash for such period; provided, however, that Securitization Fees shall not be deemed to constitute Consolidated Interest Expense.
"Consolidated Net Income" means, with respect to any Person for any period, the aggregate of the Net Income of such Person and its Restricted Subsidiaries for such period, on a consolidated basis, and otherwise determined in accordance with GAAP; provided, however, that
(1) any net after-tax extraordinary, unusual or nonrecurring gains or losses (including, without limitation, severance, relocation, transition and other restructuring costs) (less all fees and expenses relating thereto) shall be excluded;
(2) the Net Income for such period shall not include the cumulative effect of a change in accounting principle(s) during such period;
(3) any net after-tax gains or losses (less all fees and expenses relating thereto) attributable to asset dispositions other than in the ordinary course of business (as determined in good faith by the Board of Directors of Warner Music) shall be excluded;
(4) the Net Income for such period of any Person that is not a Subsidiary, or that is an Unrestricted Subsidiary, or that is accounted for by the equity method of accounting, shall be excluded; provided that, to the extent not already included, Consolidated Net Income of Warner Music shall be increased by the amount of dividends or distributions or other payments that are actually paid in cash (or to the extent converted into cash) to the referent Person or a Restricted Subsidiary thereof in respect of such period;
(5) solely for the purpose of determining the amount available for Restricted Payments under clause (3) of the first paragraph of "Certain CovenantsRestricted Payments," the Net Income for such period of any Restricted Subsidiary (other than a Guarantor) shall be excluded if the declaration or payment of dividends or similar distributions by that Restricted Subsidiary of its Net Income is not permitted at the date of determination without any prior governmental approval (which has not been obtained) or, directly or indirectly, by the operation of the terms of its charter or any agreement, instrument, judgment, decree, order, statute, rule, or governmental regulation applicable to that Restricted Subsidiary or its stockholders, unless such restriction with respect to the payment of dividends or in similar distributions has been legally waived; provided that Consolidated Net Income of such Person shall be increased by the amount of dividends or distributions or other payments that are actually paid in cash (or to the extent converted into cash) to such Person or a Restricted Subsidiary thereof in respect of such period, to the extent not already included therein;
(6) any noncash impairment charges resulting from the application of Statements of Financial Accounting Standards No. 142 and No. 144 and the amortization of intangibles arising pursuant to Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 141, shall be excluded;
(7) solely for purposes of determining the amount available for Restricted Payments under clause (3) of the first paragraph of the covenant described under the caption "Certain CovenantsRestricted Payments," an amount equal to any reduction in current taxes recognized during the applicable period by Warner Music and its Restricted Subsidiaries as a direct result of deductions arising from (A) the amortization allowed under Section 167 or 197 of the Code for
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the goodwill and other intangibles arising from the Transactions and (B) employee termination and related restructuring reserves established pursuant to purchase accounting for the two-year period commencing with the Issue Date, in each case, will be included in the calculation of "Consolidated Net Income" so long as such addition will not result in double-counting;
(8) noncash compensation charges, including any such charges arising from stock options, restricted stock grants or other equity-incentive programs shall be excluded;
(9) any net after-tax gains or losses (less all fees and expenses or charges relating thereto) attributable to the early extinguishment of Indebtedness shall be excluded; and
(10) any noncash charges resulting from mark-to-market accounting in accordance with Statements of Financial Accounting Standards No. 133 and No. 150 and Emerging Issues Task Force Issue No. 00-19 relating to warrants owned by Time Warner Inc. shall be excluded.
Notwithstanding the foregoing, for the purpose of the covenant contained under the caption "Certain CovenantsRestricted Payments" only (other than clause (3)(d) of the first paragraph thereof), there shall be excluded from Consolidated Net Income any income arising from any sale or other disposition of Restricted Investments made by Warner Music and the Restricted Subsidiaries, any repurchases and redemptions of Restricted Investments by Warner Music and the Restricted Subsidiaries, any repayments of loans and advances which constitute Restricted Investments by Warner Music and any Restricted Subsidiary, any sale of the stock of an Unrestricted Subsidiary or any distribution or dividend from an Unrestricted Subsidiary, in each case only to the extent such amounts increase the amount of Restricted Payments permitted under clause (3)(d) of the first paragraph of the covenant contained under the caption "Certain CovenantsRestricted Payments."
"Consolidated Tangible Assets" means, with respect to any Person, the consolidated total assets of such Person and its Restricted Subsidiaries determined in accordance with GAAP, less all goodwill, trade names, trademarks, patents, organization expense, and other similar intangibles properly classified as intangibles in accordance with GAAP.
"Contingent Obligations" means, with respect to any Person, any obligation of such Person guaranteeing any leases, dividends or other obligations that do not constitute Indebtedness ("primary obligations") of any other Person (the "primary obligor") in any manner, whether directly or indirectly, including, without limitation, any obligation of such Person, whether or not contingent, (i) to purchase any such primary obligation or any property constituting direct or indirect security therefor, (ii) to advance or supply funds (A) for the purchase or payment of any such primary obligation or (B) to maintain working capital or equity capital of the primary obligor or otherwise to maintain the net worth or solvency of the primary obligor, or (iii) to purchase property, securities or services primarily for the purpose of assuring the owner of any such primary obligation of the ability of the primary obligor to make payment of such primary obligation against loss in respect thereof.
"Contribution Indebtedness" means Indebtedness of Warner Music or any Guarantor in an aggregate principal amount not greater than twice the aggregate amount of cash contributions (other than Excluded Contributions) made to the capital of Warner Music or such Guarantor after the Issue Date; provided that such Contribution Indebtedness:
(1) if the aggregate principal amount of such Contribution Indebtedness is greater than one times such cash contributions to the capital of Warner Music or such Guarantor, as applicable, the amount of such excess shall be (A)(x) Subordinated Indebtedness (other than Secured Indebtedness) or (y) Indebtedness that ranks pari passu with the Notes (other than Secured Indebtedness) and (B) Indebtedness with a Stated Maturity later than the Stated Maturity of the Notes, and
(2) (a) is incurred within 180 days after the making of such cash contributions and (b) is so designated as Contribution Indebtedness pursuant to an Officers' Certificate on the date of the incurrence thereof.
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"Credit Agreement" means that certain Amended and Restated Credit Agreement, dated as of April 8, 2004, by and among Warner Music, the other borrowers from time to time party thereto, Holdco, Banc of America Securities LLC and Deutsche Bank Securities Inc., as Joint Lead Arrangers and Joint Book Managers, Lehman Brothers Inc. and Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith Incorporated, as Co-Arrangers and Co-Book Managers, Deutsche Bank Securities Inc. and Lehman Commercial Paper Inc., as Co-Syndication Agents, Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith Incorporated, as Documentation Agent, and Bank of America, N.A., as Administrative Agent, Swing Line Lender and L/C Issuer and the lenders party thereto from time to time, including any related notes, guarantees, collateral documents, instruments and agreements executed in connection therewith, and in each case as amended, restated, supplemented, modified, renewed, refunded, replaced or refinanced from time to time in one or more agreements or indentures (in each case with the same or new lenders or institutional investors), including any agreement extending the maturity thereof or otherwise restructuring all or any portion of the Indebtedness thereunder or increasing the amount loaned or issued thereunder or altering the maturity thereof.
"Default" means any event that is, or with the passage of time or the giving of notice or both would be, an Event of Default.
"Designated Noncash Consideration" means the fair market value of noncash consideration received by Warner Music or one of its Restricted Subsidiaries in connection with an Asset Sale that is so designated as Designated Noncash Consideration pursuant to an Officers' Certificate setting forth the basis of such valuation, less the amount of cash or Cash Equivalents received in connection with a subsequent sale of such Designated Noncash Consideration.
"Designated Preferred Stock" means Preferred Stock of Warner Music or any direct or indirect parent company of Warner Music (other than Disqualified Stock), that is issued for cash (other than to Warner Music or any of its Subsidiaries or an employee stock ownership plan or trust established by Warner Music or any of its Subsidiaries) and is so designated as Designated Preferred Stock, pursuant to an Officers' Certificate, on the issuance date thereof, the cash proceeds of which are excluded from the calculation set forth in clause (3) of the first paragraph of the covenant described under "Certain CovenantsRestricted Payments."
"Designated Senior Debt" means:
(1) any Indebtedness outstanding under the Credit Agreement; and
(2) any other Senior Debt permitted under the Indenture the principal amount of which is $25.0 million or more and that has been designated by Warner Music in the instrument evidencing that Senior Debt as "Designated Senior Debt."
"Disqualified Stock" means, with respect to any Person, any Capital Stock of such Person which, by its terms (or by the terms of any security into which it is convertible or for which it is putable or exchangeable), or upon the happening of any event, matures or is mandatorily redeemable (other than as a result of a change of control or asset sale), pursuant to a sinking fund obligation or otherwise, or is redeemable at the option of the holder thereof (other than as a result of a change of control or asset sale), in whole or in part, in each case prior to the date 91 days after the earlier of the final maturity date of the Notes or the date the Notes are no longer outstanding; provided, however, that if such Capital Stock is issued to any plan for the benefit of employees of Holdco or its Subsidiaries or by any such plan to such employees, such Capital Stock shall not constitute Disqualified Stock solely because it may be required to be repurchased by Holdco or its Subsidiaries in order to satisfy applicable statutory or regulatory obligations.
"Domestic Subsidiary" means any Subsidiary of Warner Music that was formed under the laws of the United States, any state of the United States, the District of Columbia or any territory of the United States.
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"EBITDA" means, with respect to any Person for any period, the Consolidated Net Income of such Person for such period plus, without duplication,
(1) provision for taxes based on income or profits, plus franchise or similar taxes of such Person for such period deducted in computing Consolidated Net Income, plus
(2) Consolidated Interest Expense of such Person for such period to the extent the same was deducted in calculating such Consolidated Net Income, plus
(3) Consolidated Depreciation and Amortization Expense of such Person for such period to the extent such depreciation and amortization were deducted in computing Consolidated Net Income, plus
(4) any reasonable expenses or charges related to any Equity Offering, Permitted Investment, acquisition, recapitalization or Indebtedness permitted to be incurred under the Indenture or to the Transactions and, in each case, deducted in such period in computing Consolidated Net Income, plus
(5) the amount of any restructuring charges or reserves (which, for the avoidance of doubt, shall include retention, severance, systems establishment cost, excess pension charges, contract termination costs, including future lease commitments, and costs to consolidate facilities and relocate employees) deducted in such period in computing Consolidated Net Income, plus
(6) without duplication, any other noncash charges (including any impairment charges and the impact of purchase accounting, including, but not limited to, the amortization of inventory step-up) reducing Consolidated Net Income for such period (excluding any such charge that represents an accrual or reserve for a cash expenditure for a future period), plus
(7) any net gain or loss resulting from Hedging Obligations relating to currency exchange risk, plus
(8) the amount of management, monitoring, consulting and advisory fees and related expenses paid to the Sponsors (or any accruals relating to such fees and related expenses) during such period; provided that such amount shall not exceed $10.0 million in any four-quarter period, plus
(9) Securitization Fees to the extent deducted in calculating Consolidated Net Income for such period, plus
(10) the Cinram Adjustment, plus
(11) any net after-tax income or loss from discontinued operations and any net after-tax gains or losses on disposal of discontinued operations, plus
(12) without duplication, pension curtailment expenses, transaction costs and executive contract expenses incurred by affiliated entities of Warner Music (other than Holdco and its Subsidiaries) on behalf of Holdco or any of its Subsidiaries and reflected in the combined financial statements of Warner Music as capital contributions, less
(13) without duplication, noncash items increasing Consolidated Net Income of such Person for such period (excluding any items which represent the reversal of any accrual of, or cash reserve for, anticipated cash charges or asset valuation adjustments made in any prior period).
"Equity Interests" means Capital Stock and all warrants, options or other rights to acquire Capital Stock (but excluding any debt security that is convertible into, or exchangeable for, Capital Stock).
"Equity Offering" means any public or private sale of common stock or Preferred Stock of Warner Music or any of its direct or indirect parent corporations (excluding Disqualified Stock), other than (i) public offerings with respect to common stock of Warner Music or of any direct or indirect parent
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corporation of Warner Music registered on Form S-8, (ii) any such public or private sale that constitutes an Excluded Contribution or (iii) an issuance to any Subsidiary.
"Exchange Act" means the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and the rules and regulations of the Commission promulgated thereunder.
"Excluded Contribution" means net cash proceeds, marketable securities or Qualified Proceeds, in each case received by Warner Music and its Restricted Subsidiaries from:
(1) contributions to its common equity capital; and
(2) the sale (other than to a Subsidiary or to any management equity plan or stock option plan or any other management or employee benefit plan or agreement of Warner Music or any Subsidiary) of Capital Stock (other than Disqualified Stock and Designated Preferred Stock),
in each case designated as Excluded Contributions pursuant to an Officers' Certificate on the date such capital contributions are made or the date such Equity Interests are sold, as the case may be, which are excluded from the calculation set forth in clause (3) of the first paragraph of the covenant contained under the caption "Certain CovenantsRestricted Payments."
"Existing Indebtedness" means Indebtedness of Warner Music and its Subsidiaries (other than Indebtedness under the Credit Agreement) in existence on the date of the Indenture.
"Fixed Charge Coverage Ratio" means, with respect to any Person for any period consisting of such Person and its Restricted Subsidiaries' most recently ended four fiscal quarters for which internal financial statements are available, the ratio of EBITDA of such Person for such period to the Fixed Charges of such Person for such period. In the event that Warner Music or any Restricted Subsidiary incurs, assumes, guarantees or redeems any Indebtedness or issues or repays Disqualified Stock or Preferred Stock subsequent to the commencement of the period for which the Fixed Charge Coverage Ratio is being calculated but prior to the event for which the calculation of the Fixed Charge Coverage Ratio is made (the "Calculation Date"), then the Fixed Charge Coverage Ratio shall be calculated giving pro forma effect to such incurrence, assumption, guarantee or repayment of Indebtedness, or such issuance or redemption of Disqualified Stock or Preferred Stock, as if the same had occurred at the beginning of the applicable four-quarter period.
For purposes of making the computation referred to above, Investments, acquisitions, dispositions, mergers or consolidations (as determined in accordance with GAAP) that have been made by Holdco or any Restricted Subsidiary during the four-quarter reference period or subsequent to such reference period and on or prior to or simultaneously with the Calculation Date shall be calculated on a pro forma basis assuming that all such Investments, acquisitions, dispositions, mergers or consolidations (and the change in any associated fixed charge obligations and the change in EBITDA resulting therefrom) had occurred on the first day of the four-quarter reference period. If since the beginning of such period any Person (that subsequently became a Restricted Subsidiary or was merged with or into Warner Music or any Restricted Subsidiary since the beginning of such period) shall have made any Investment, acquisition, disposition, merger or consolidation that would have required adjustment pursuant to this definition, then the Fixed Charge Coverage Ratio shall be calculated giving pro forma effect thereto for such period as if such Investment, acquisition, disposition, merger or consolidation had occurred at the beginning of the applicable four-quarter period. For purposes of this definition, whenever pro forma effect is to be given to an Investment, acquisition, disposition, merger or consolidation (including the Transactions and the related restructuring initiatives) and the amount of income or earnings relating thereto, the pro forma calculations shall be determined in good faith by a responsible financial or accounting officer of Warner Music and shall comply with the requirements of Rule 11-02 of Regulation S-X promulgated by the Commission, except that such pro forma calculations may include operating expense reductions for such period resulting from such transaction that is being given pro forma effect that have been realized or (A) for which the steps necessary for realization have been taken (or are taken concurrently with such transaction) or (B) with respect to any transactions
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other than the Transaction (and the related restructuring initiatives), for which the steps necessary for realization are reasonably expected to be taken within the six month period following such transaction and, in each case, including, but not limited to, (a) reduction in personnel expenses, (b) reduction of costs related to administrative functions, (c) reduction of costs related to leased or owned properties and (d) reductions from the consolidation of operations and streamlining of corporate and record label overhead; provided that, in either case, such adjustments are set forth in an Officers' Certificate signed by Warner Music's chief financial officer and another Officer which states (i) the amount of such adjustment or adjustments, (ii) that such adjustment or adjustments are based on the reasonable good faith beliefs of the Officers executing such Officers' Certificate at the time of such execution and (iii) that any related incurrence of Indebtedness is permitted pursuant to the Indenture. If any Indebtedness bears a floating rate of interest and is being given pro forma effect, the interest on such Indebtedness shall be calculated as if the rate in effect on the Calculation Date had been the applicable rate for the entire period (taking into account any Hedging Obligations applicable to such Indebtedness). Interest on a Capitalized Lease Obligation shall be deemed to accrue at an interest rate reasonably determined by a responsible financial or accounting officer of Warner Music to be the rate of interest implicit in such Capitalized Lease Obligation in accordance with GAAP. For purposes of making the computation referred to above, interest on any Indebtedness under a revolving credit facility computed on a pro forma basis shall be computed based upon the average daily balance of such Indebtedness during the applicable period. Interest on Indebtedness that may optionally be determined at an interest rate based upon a factor of a prime or similar rate, a eurocurrency interbank offered rate, or other rate, shall be deemed to have been based upon the rate actually chosen, or, if none, then based upon such optional rate chosen as Warner Music may designate.
"Fixed Charges" means, with respect to any Person for any period, the sum of, without duplication, (a) Consolidated Interest Expense (excluding all noncash interest expense and amortization/accretion of original issue discount in connection with the Specified Financings (including any original issue discount created by fair value adjustments to Warner Music's existing Indebtedness as a result of purchase accounting)) of such Person for such period, (b) all cash dividends paid, accrued and /or scheduled to be paid or accrued during such period (excluding items eliminated in consolidation) on any series of Preferred Stock of such Person and (c) all cash dividends paid, accrued and/or scheduled to be paid or accrued during such period (excluding items eliminated in consolidation) on any series of Disqualified Stock.
"Foreign Subsidiary" means any Subsidiary of Warner Music that is not a Domestic Subsidiary.
"GAAP" means generally accepted accounting principles in the United States in effect on the date of the Indenture. For purposes of this description of the Notes, the term "consolidated" with respect to any Person means such Person consolidated with its Restricted Subsidiaries and does not include any Unrestricted Subsidiary.
"Government Securities" means, in the case of the Dollar Notes, U.S. Government Securities and, in the case of the Sterling Notes, U.K. Government Securities.
"guarantee" means a guarantee other than by endorsement of negotiable instruments for collection in the ordinary course of business, direct or indirect, in any manner including, without limitation, through letters of credit or reimbursement agreements in respect thereof, of all or any part of any Indebtedness or other obligations.
"Guarantee" means any guarantee of the obligations of Warner Music under the Indenture and the Notes by a Guarantor in accordance with the provisions of the Indenture. When used as a verb, "Guarantee" shall have a corresponding meaning.
"Guarantor" means any Person that incurs a Guarantee of the Notes; provided that upon the release and discharge of such Person from its Guarantee in accordance with the Indenture, such Person shall cease to be a Guarantor. On the Issue Date, the Guarantors were A.P. Schmidt Company,
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Atlantic Recording Corporation, Atlantic/143 L.L.C., Atlantic/MR II INC., Atlantic/MR Ventures Inc., Berna Music, Inc., Big Beat Records Inc., Big Tree Recording Corporation, Bute Sound LLC, Cafe Americana Inc., Chappell & Intersong Music Group (Australia) Limited, Chappell And Intersong Music Group (Germany) Inc., Chappell Music Company, Inc., Cota Music, Inc., Cotillion Music, Inc., CPP/Belwin, Inc., CRK Music Inc., E/A Music, Inc., Eleksylum Music, Inc., Elektra Entertainment Group Inc., Elektra Group Ventures Inc., Elektra/Chameleon Ventures Inc., FHK, INC., Fiddleback Music Publishing Company, Inc., Foster Frees Music, Inc., Foz Man Music LLC, Inside Job, Inc., Intersong U.S.A., INC., Jadar Music Corp., Lava Trademark Holding Company LLC, LEM America, INC., London-Sire Records Inc., McGuffin Music Inc., Mixed Bag Music, Inc., MM Investment Inc. (fka Warner Music Bluesky Holding Inc.), NC Hungary Holdings Inc., New Chappell Inc., Nonesuch Records Inc., NVC International Inc., Octa Music, Inc., Penalty Records L.L.C., Pepamar Music Corp., Revelation Music Publishing Corporation, Rhino Entertainment Company, Rick's Music Inc., Rightsong Music Inc., Rodra Music, Inc., Sea Chime Music, Inc., SR/MDM Venture Inc., Summy-Birchard, Inc., Super Hype Publishing, Inc., T-Boy Music L.L.C., T-Girl Music L.L.C., The Rhythm Method Inc., Tommy Boy Music, Inc., Tommy Valando Publishing Group, Inc., Tri-Chappell Music Inc., TW Music Holdings Inc., Unichappell Music Inc., W.B.M. Music Corp., Walden Music, Inc., Warner Alliance Music Inc., Warner Brethren Inc., Warner Bros. Music International Inc., Warner Bros. Publications U.S. Inc., Warner Bros. Records Inc., Warner Custom Music Corp., Warner Domain Music Inc., Warner Music Discovery Inc., Warner Music Distribution Inc., Warner Music Group Inc., Warner Music Latina Inc., Warner Music SP Inc., Warner Sojourner Music Inc., Warner Special Products Inc., Warner Strategic Marketing Inc., Warner/Chappell Music (Services), Inc., Warner/Chappell Music, Inc., Warner-Elektra-Atlantic Corporation, WarnerSongs Inc., Warner-Tamerlane Publishing Corp., Warprise Music Inc., WB Gold Music Corp., WB Music Corp., WBM/House of Gold Music, Inc., WBPI Holdings LLC, WBR Management Services Inc., WBR/QRI Venture, Inc., WBR/Ruffnation Ventures, Inc., WBR/Sire Ventures Inc., We Are Musica Inc., WEA Europe Inc., WEA Inc., WEA International Inc., WEA Latina Musica Inc., WEA Management Services Inc., Wide Music, Inc., WMG Management Services Inc., and WMG Trademark Holding Company LLC. Subsequent to the Issue Date, WEA Rock LLC and WEA Urban LLC have been added as additional Guarantors.
"Guarantor Senior Debt" means, with respect to any Guarantor, the principal of, premium, if any, and interest (including any interest accruing subsequent to the filing of a petition of bankruptcy at the rate provided for in the documentation with respect thereto, whether or not such interest is an allowed or allowable claim under applicable law) on any Indebtedness and any Securitization Repurchase Obligation of such Guarantor, whether outstanding on the Issue Date or thereafter created, incurred or assumed, unless, in the case of any particular obligation, the instrument creating or evidencing the same or pursuant to which the same is outstanding expressly provides that such obligation shall not be senior in right of payment to the Guarantee of such Guarantor. Without limiting the generality of the foregoing, "Guarantor Senior Debt" shall also include the principal of, premium, if any, interest (including any interest accruing subsequent to the filing of a petition of bankruptcy at the rate provided for in the documentation with respect thereto, whether or not such interest is an allowed or allowable claim under applicable law) on, and all other amounts owing in respect of (including guarantees of the foregoing obligations):
(1) all monetary obligations of every nature of such Guarantor under, or with respect to, the Credit Agreement, including, without limitation, obligations to pay principal, premium and interest, reimbursement obligations under letters of credit, fees, expenses and indemnities (and guarantees thereof); and
(2) all Hedging Obligations (and guarantees thereof),
in each case whether outstanding on the Issue Date or thereafter incurred.
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Notwithstanding the foregoing, "Guarantor Senior Debt" shall not include:
(1) any Indebtedness of such Guarantor to a Subsidiary of such Guarantor (other than any Securitization Repurchase Obligation);
(2) Indebtedness to, or guaranteed on behalf of, any shareholder, director, officer or employee of such Guarantor or any Subsidiary of such Guarantor (including, without limitation, amounts owed for compensation) other than the guarantee of Holdco of Indebtedness under the Credit Agreement;
(3) Indebtedness to trade creditors and other amounts incurred in connection with obtaining goods, materials or services (including guarantees thereof or instruments evidencing such liabilities);
(4) Indebtedness represented by Capital Stock;
(5) any liability for federal, state, local or other taxes owed or owing by such Guarantor;
(6) that portion of any Indebtedness incurred in violation of the covenant contained under the caption "Certain CovenantsIncurrence of Indebtedness and Issuance of Preferred Stock";
(7) Indebtedness which, when incurred and without respect to any election under Section 1111(b) of Title 11, United States Code, is without recourse to Warner Music; and
(8) any Indebtedness which is, by its express terms, subordinated in right of payment to any other Indebtedness of such Guarantor.
"Hedging Obligations" means, with respect to any Person, the obligations of such Person under:
(1) currency exchange, interest rate or commodity swap agreements, currency exchange, interest rate or commodity cap agreements and currency exchange, interest rate or commodity collar agreements; and
(2) other agreements or arrangements designed to protect such Person against fluctuations in currency exchange, interest rates or commodity prices.
"Holdco" means WMG Holdings Corp., a Delaware corporation and the direct parent of Warner Music.
"Indebtedness" means, with respect to any Person,
(a) any indebtedness (including principal and premium) of such Person, whether or not contingent,
(i) in respect of borrowed money,
(ii) evidenced by bonds, notes, debentures or similar instruments or letters of credit (or, without double counting, reimbursement agreements in respect thereof),
(iii) representing the balance deferred and unpaid of the purchase price of any property (including Capitalized Lease Obligations), except any such balance that constitutes a trade payable or similar obligation to a trade creditor in each case accrued in the ordinary course of business or
(iv) representing any Hedging Obligations,
if and to the extent that any of the foregoing Indebtedness (other than letters of credit and Hedging Obligations) would appear as a liability upon a balance sheet (excluding the footnotes thereto) of such Person prepared in accordance with GAAP,
(b) Disqualified Stock of such Person,
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(c) to the extent not otherwise included, any obligation by such Person to be liable for, or to pay, as obligor, guarantor or otherwise, on the Indebtedness of another Person (other than by endorsement of negotiable instruments for collection in the ordinary course of business) and
(d) to the extent not otherwise included, Indebtedness of another Person secured by a Lien on any asset owned by such Person (whether or not such Indebtedness is assumed by such Person);
provided, however, that Contingent Obligations incurred in the ordinary course of business and not in respect of borrowed money shall be deemed not to constitute Indebtedness.
"Independent Financial Advisor" means an accounting, appraisal or investment banking firm or consultant to Persons engaged in a Permitted Business of nationally recognized standing that is, in the good faith judgment of Warner Music, qualified to perform the task for which it has been engaged.
"Investments" means, with respect to any Person, all direct or indirect investments by such Person in other Persons (including Affiliates) in the forms of loans (including guarantees or other obligations), advances or capital contributions (excluding accounts receivable, trade credit, advances to customers, commission, travel and similar advances to officers and employees, in each case made in the ordinary course of business), purchases or other acquisitions for consideration of Indebtedness, Equity Interests or other securities issued by any other Person and investments that are required by GAAP to be classified on the balance sheet (excluding the footnotes) of such Person in the same manner as the other investments included in this definition to the extent such transactions involve the transfer of cash or other property. If Warner Music or any Subsidiary of Warner Music sells or otherwise disposes of any Equity Interests of any direct or indirect Subsidiary of Warner Music such that, after giving effect to any such sale or disposition, such Person is no longer a Subsidiary of Warner Music, Warner Music will be deemed to have made an Investment on the date of any such sale or disposition equal to the fair market value of the Equity Interests of such Subsidiary not sold or disposed of in an amount determined as provided in the final paragraph of the covenant described above under the caption "Certain CovenantsRestricted Payments."
For purposes of the definition of "Unrestricted Subsidiary" and the covenant described above under the caption "Certain CovenantsRestricted Payments," (i)"Investments" shall include the portion (proportionate to Warner Music's equity interest in such Subsidiary) of the fair market value of the net assets of a Subsidiary of Warner Music at the time that such Subsidiary is designated an Unrestricted Subsidiary; provided, however, that upon a redesignation of such Subsidiary as a Restricted Subsidiary, Warner Music shall be deemed to continue to have a permanent "Investment" in an Unrestricted Subsidiary in an amount (if positive) equal to (x) Warner Music's "Investment" in such Subsidiary at the time of such redesignation less (y) the portion (proportionate to Warner Music's equity interest in such Subsidiary) of the fair market value of the net assets of such Subsidiary at the time of such redesignation; (ii) any property transferred to or from an Unrestricted Subsidiary shall be valued at its fair market value at the time of such transfer, in each case as determined in good faith by Warner Music; and (iii) any transfer of Capital Stock that results in an entity which became a Restricted Subsidiary after the Issue Date ceasing to be a Restricted Subsidiary shall be deemed to be an Investment in an amount equal to the fair market value (as determined by the Board of Directors of Warner Music in good faith as of the date of initial acquisition) of the Capital Stock of such entity owned by Warner Music and the Restricted Subsidiaries immediately after such transfer.
"Issue Date" means April 8, 2004.
"Lien" means, with respect to any asset, any mortgage, lien, pledge, charge, security interest or encumbrance of any kind in respect of such asset, whether or not filed, recorded or otherwise perfected under applicable law, including any conditional sale or other title retention agreement, any lease in the nature thereof, any option or other agreement to sell or give a security interest in and any filing of or agreement to give any financing statement under the Uniform Commercial Code (or equivalent statutes) of any jurisdiction; provided that in no event shall an operating lease be deemed to constitute a Lien.
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"Management Agreement" means the Management Agreement by and among Warner Music, Holdco and the Sponsors and/or their Affiliates as in effect on the Issue Date.
"Moody's" means Moody's Investors Service, Inc.
"Net Income" means, with respect to any Person, the net income (loss) of such Person, determined in accordance with GAAP and before any reduction in respect of Preferred Stock dividends or accretion of any Preferred Stock.
"Net Indebtedness to EBITDA Ratio" means, with respect to any person, the ratio of: (a) the Indebtedness (which, for purposes of any calculations of the Net Indebtedness to EBITDA Ratio, shall include, without duplication, any Qualified Securitization Financing, Non-Recourse Acquisition Financing Indebtedness and Non-Recourse Product Financing Indebtedness) of Warner Music and its Restricted Subsidiaries, as of the end of the most recently ended fiscal quarter, plus the amount of any Indebtedness incurred subsequent to the end of such fiscal quarter, less the amount of cash and Cash Equivalents that would be stated on the balance sheet of Warner Music and held by Warner Music as of such date of determination, as determined in accordance with GAAP to, (b) Warner Music's EBITDA for the most recently ended four full fiscal quarters for which internal financial statements are available immediately preceding the date on which such event for which such calculation is being made shall occur (the "Measurement Period"); provided, however, that: (i) in making such computation, Indebtedness shall include the greater of (x) the average daily balance outstanding under any revolving credit facility during the most recently ended fiscal quarter and (y) the actual amount of Indebtedness outstanding under any revolving credit facility as of the date for which such calculation is being made; and (ii) if Warner Music or any of its Restricted Subsidiaries consummates a material acquisition or an Asset Sale or other disposition of assets subsequent to the commencement of the Measurement Period but prior to the event for which the calculation of the Net Indebtedness to EBITDA Ratio is made, then the Net Indebtedness to EBITDA Ratio shall be calculated giving pro forma effect to such material acquisition or Asset Sale or other disposition of assets, as if the same had occurred at the beginning of the applicable period. Any pro forma calculations necessary pursuant to this "Net Indebtedness to EBITDA Ratio" shall be made in accordance with the provisions set forth in the second paragraph of the definition of "Fixed Charge Coverage Ratio."
"Net Proceeds" means the aggregate cash proceeds received by Warner Music or any Restricted Subsidiary in respect of any Asset Sale, including, without limitation, legal, accounting and investment banking fees, and brokerage and sales commissions, any relocation expenses incurred as a result thereof, taxes paid or payable as a result thereof (after taking into account any available tax credits or deductions and any tax sharing arrangements), repayment of Indebtedness that is secured by the property or assets that are the subject of such Asset Sale and any deduction of appropriate amounts to be provided by Warner Music as a reserve in accordance with GAAP against any liabilities associated with the asset disposed of in such transaction and retained by Warner Music after such sale or other disposition thereof, including, without limitation, pension and other post-employment benefit liabilities and liabilities related to environmental matters or against any indemnification obligations associated with such transaction.
"Net Senior Indebtedness to EBITDA Ratio" means, with respect to any Person, the ratio of: (a) the Senior Debt (which, for purposes of any calculations of the Net Senior Indebtedness to EBITDA Ratio shall include, without duplication, to the extent constituting Senior Debt, any Qualified Securitization Financing, Non-Recourse Acquisition Financing Indebtedness and Non-Recourse Product Financing Indebtedness) of Warner Music and its Restricted Subsidiaries, as of the end of the most recently ended fiscal quarter, plus the amount of any Senior Debt incurred subsequent to the end of such fiscal quarter, less the amount of cash and Cash Equivalents that would be stated on the balance sheet of Warner Music and held by Warner Music as of such date of determination, as determined in accordance with GAAP, to (b) Warner Music's EBITDA for the most recently ended four full fiscal
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quarters for which internal financial statements are available immediately preceding the date on which such event for which such calculation is being made shall occur (the "Measurement Period"); provided, however, that: (i) in making such computation, Senior Debt shall include the greater of (x) the average daily balance outstanding under any revolving credit facility during the most recently ended fiscal quarter and (y) the actual amount of Indebtedness outstanding under any revolving credit facility as of the date for which such calculation is being made; and (ii) if Warner Music or any of its Restricted Subsidiaries consummates a material acquisition or an Asset Sale or other disposition of assets subsequent to the commencement of the Measurement Period but prior to the event for which the calculation of the Net Senior Indebtedness to EBITDA Ratio is made, then the Net Senior Indebtedness to EBITDA Ratio shall be calculated giving pro forma effect to such material acquisition or Asset Sale or other disposition of assets, as if the same had occurred at the beginning of the applicable period. Any pro forma calculations necessary pursuant to this "Net Senior Indebtedness to EBITDA Ratio" shall be made in accordance with the provisions set forth in the second paragraph of the definition of "Fixed Charge Coverage Ratio."
"Non-Recourse Acquisition Financing Indebtedness" means any Indebtedness incurred by Warner Music or any Restricted Subsidiary to finance the acquisition, exploitation or development of assets (including directly or through the acquisition of entities holding such assets) not owned by Warner Music or any of its Restricted Subsidiaries prior to such acquisition, exploitation or development, which assets are used for the creation or development of Product for the benefit of Warner Music, and in respect of which the Person to whom such Indebtedness is owed has no recourse whatsoever to Warner Music or any of its Restricted Subsidiaries for the repayment of or payment of such Indebtedness other than recourse to the acquired assets or assets that are the subject of such exploitation or development for the purpose of enforcing any Lien given by Warner Music or such Restricted Subsidiary over such assets, including the receivables, inventory, intangibles and other rights associated with such assets and the proceeds thereof.
"Non-Recourse Product Financing Indebtedness" means any Indebtedness incurred by Warner Music or any Restricted Subsidiary solely for the purpose of financing (whether directly or through a partially-owned joint venture) the production, acquisition, exploitation, creation or development of items of Product produced, acquired, exploited, created or developed after the Issue Date (including any Indebtedness assumed in connection with the production, acquisition, creation or development of any such items of Product or secured by a Lien on any such items of Product prior to the production, acquisition, creation or development thereof) where the recourse of the creditor in respect of that Indebtedness is limited to Product revenues generated by such items of Product or any rights pertaining thereto and where the Indebtedness is unsecured save for Liens over such items of Product or revenues and such rights and any extension, renewal, replacement or refinancing of such Indebtedness. "Non-Recourse Product Financing Indebtedness" excludes, for the avoidance of doubt, any Indebtedness raised or secured against Product where the proceeds are used for any other purposes.
"Obligations" means any principal, interest, penalties, fees, indemnifications, reimbursements (including, without limitation, reimbursement obligations with respect to letters of credit), damages and other liabilities, and guarantees of payment of such principal, interest, penalties, fees, indemnifications, reimbursements, damages and other liabilities, payable under the documentation governing any Indebtedness.
"Officer" means the Chairman of the Board, the Chief Executive Officer, the Chief Financial Officer, the President, any Executive Vice President, Senior Vice President or Vice President, the Treasurer or the Secretary or Assistant Secretary or General Counsel or Deputy General Counsel of Warner Music.
"Officers' Certificate" means a certificate signed on behalf of Warner Music by two Officers of Warner Music, one of whom is the principal executive officer, the principal financial officer, the
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treasurer or the principal accounting officer of Warner Music, that meets the requirements set forth in the Indenture.
"Permitted Asset Swap" means any transfer of property or assets by Warner Music or any of its Restricted Subsidiaries in which at least 90% of the consideration received by the transferor consists of properties or assets (other than cash) that will be used in a Permitted Business; provided that the aggregate fair market value of the property or assets being transferred by Warner Music or such Restricted Subsidiary is not greater than the aggregate fair market value of the property or assets received by Warner Music or such Restricted Subsidiary in such exchange (provided, however, that in the event such aggregate fair market value of the property or assets being transferred or received by Warner Music is (x) less than $50.0 million, such determination shall be made in good faith by the Board of Directors of Warner Music and (y) greater than or equal to $50.0 million, such determination shall be made by an Independent Financial Advisor).
"Permitted Business" means the media and entertainment business and any services, activities or businesses incidental or directly related or similar thereto, any line of business engaged in by Warner Music on the Issue Date or any business activity that is a reasonable extension, development or expansion thereof or ancillary thereto.
"Permitted Debt" is defined under the caption "Certain CovenantsIncurrence of Indebtedness and Issuance of Preferred Stock."
"Permitted Holders" means (i) the Sponsors and their Affiliates (not including, however, any portfolio companies of any of the Sponsors); (ii) Edgar Bronfman Jr.; (iii) immediate family members (including spouses and direct descendants) of the Person described in clause (ii); (iv) any trusts created for the benefit of the Person described in clause (ii) or (iii) or any trust for the benefit of any such trust; (v) in the event of the incompetence or death of any of the Person described in clauses (ii) and (iii), such Person's estate, executor, administrator, committee or other personal representative or beneficiaries, in each case who at any particular date shall beneficially own or have the right to acquire, directly or indirectly, Capital Stock of Warner Music or (vi) Time Warner Inc. if at such time as Time Warner Inc. owns 50% or more of the total voting power of the Voting Stock of Warner Music or any direct or indirect parent company of Warner Music and after giving pro forma effect to the acquisition of such Voting Stock and the incurrence of any Indebtedness used to finance the acquisition thereof, (x) Time Warner Inc. has a rating of at least "investment grade" status from S&P and Moody's and (y) neither S&P, Moody's nor any other nationally recognized rating agency shall have downgraded, or indicated an intention to downgrade, the corporate rating of Time Warner Inc. to a level below its then existing corporate rating by any such agency.
"Permitted Investments" means:
(1) any Investment by Warner Music in any Restricted Subsidiary or by a Restricted Subsidiary in another Restricted Subsidiary;
(2) any Investment in cash and Cash Equivalents;
(3) any Investment by Warner Music or any Restricted Subsidiary of Warner Music in a Person that is engaged in a Permitted Business if as a result of such Investment (A) such Person becomes a Restricted Subsidiary or (B) such Person, in one transaction or a series of related transactions, is merged, consolidated or amalgamated with or into, or transfers or conveys substantially all of its assets to, or is liquidated into, Warner Music or a Restricted Subsidiary;
(4) any Investment in securities or other assets not constituting cash or Cash Equivalents and received in connection with an Asset Sale made pursuant to the provisions described above under the caption "Repurchase at the Option of HoldersAsset Sales" or any other disposition of assets not constituting an Asset Sale;
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(5) any Investment existing on the Issue Date and any modification, replacement, renewal or extension thereof; provided that the amount of any such Investment may be increased (x) as required by the terms of such Investment as in existence on the Issue Date or (y) as otherwise permitted under the Indenture;
(6) loans and advances to employees and any guarantees not in excess of $15.0 million in the aggregate outstanding at any one time;
(7) any Investment acquired by Warner Music or any Restricted Subsidiary (A) in exchange for any other Investment or accounts receivable held by Warner Music or any such Restricted Subsidiary in connection with or as a result of a bankruptcy, workout, reorganization or recapitalization of the issuer of such other Investment or accounts receivable or (B) as a result of a foreclosure by Warner Music or any Restricted Subsidiary with respect to any secured Investment or other transfer of title with respect to any secured Investment in default;
(8) Hedging Obligations permitted under clause (9) of the definition of "Permitted Debt";
(9) loans and advances to officers, directors and employees for business-related travel expenses, moving expenses and other similar expenses, in each case incurred in the ordinary course of business;
(10) any advance directly or indirectly related to royalties or future profits (whether or not recouped), directly or indirectly (including through capital contributions or loans to an entity or joint venture relating to such artist(s) or writer(s)), to one or more artists or writers pursuant to label and license agreements, agreements with artists/writers and related ventures, pressing and distribution agreements, publishing agreements and any similar contract or agreement entered into from time to time in the ordinary course of business;
(11) any Investment by Warner Music or a Restricted Subsidiary in a Permitted Business having an aggregate fair market value, taken together with all other Investments made pursuant to this clause (11) that are at that time outstanding (without giving effect to the sale of an Unrestricted Subsidiary to the extent the proceeds of such sale do not consist of cash and/or marketable securities), not to exceed the greater of $75.0 million and 8.0% of Consolidated Tangible Assets (with the fair market value of each Investment being measured at the time made and without giving effect to subsequent changes in value);
(12) Investments the payment for which consists of Equity Interests of Warner Music or any of its direct or indirect parent corporations (exclusive of Disqualified Stock);
(13) guarantees (including Guarantees) of Indebtedness permitted under the covenant contained under the caption "Certain CovenantsIncurrence of Indebtedness and Issuance of Preferred Stock" and performance guarantees consistent with past practice;
(14) any transaction to the extent it constitutes an Investment that is permitted and made in accordance with the provisions of the covenant described under the caption "Certain CovenantsTransactions with Affiliates" (except transactions described in clauses (2), (6) and (7) of the second paragraph thereof);
(15) Investments by Warner Music or a Restricted Subsidiary in joint ventures engaged in a Permitted Business having an aggregate fair market value, taken together with all other Investments made pursuant to this clause (15) that are at that time outstanding amount, not to exceed the greater of $50.0 million and 4.0% of Consolidated Tangible Assets (with the fair market value of each Investment being measured at the time made and without giving effect to subsequent changes in value);
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(16) Investments consisting of licensing or contribution of intellectual property pursuant to joint marketing arrangements with other Persons; and
(17) any Investment in a Securitization Subsidiary or any Investment by a Securitization Subsidiary in any other Person in connection with a Qualified Securitization Financing, including Investments of funds held in accounts permitted or required by the arrangements governing such Qualified Securitization Financing or any related Indebtedness; provided, however, that any Investment in a Securitization Subsidiary is in the form of a Purchase Money Note, contribution of additional Securitization Assets or an equity interest.
"Permitted Junior Securities" means:
(1) Equity Interests in Warner Music, any Guarantor or any direct or indirect parent of Warner Music; or
(2) unsecured debt securities that are subordinated to all Senior Debt (and any debt securities issued in exchange for Senior Debt) to substantially the same extent as, or to a greater extent than, the Notes and the Guarantees are subordinated to Senior Debt under the Indenture.
"Permitted Liens" means the following types of Liens:
(1) deposits of cash or government bonds made in the ordinary course of business to secure surety or appeal bonds to which such Person is a party;
(2) Liens in favor of issuers of performance, surety, bid, indemnity, warranty, release, appeal or similar bonds or with respect to other regulatory requirements or letters of credit or bankers' acceptances issued, and completion guarantees provided for, in each case pursuant to the request of and for the account of such Person in the ordinary course of its business or consistent with past practice;
(3) Liens on property or shares of stock of a Person at the time such Person becomes a Subsidiary; provided, however, that such Liens are not created or incurred in connection with, or in contemplation of, such other Person becoming such a Subsidiary; provided, further, however, that such Liens may not extend to any other property owned by Warner Music or any Restricted Subsidiary;
(4) Liens on property at the time Warner Music or a Restricted Subsidiary acquired the property, including any acquisition by means of a merger or consolidation with or into Warner Music or any Restricted Subsidiary; provided, however, that such Liens are not created or incurred in connection with, or in contemplation of, such acquisition; provided, further, however, that such Liens may not extend to any other property owned by Warner Music or any Restricted Subsidiary;
(5) Liens securing Indebtedness or other obligations of a Restricted Subsidiary owing to Warner Music or another Restricted Subsidiary permitted to be incurred in accordance with the covenant described under the caption "Certain CovenantsIncurrence of Indebtedness and Issuance of Preferred Stock";
(6) Liens securing Hedging Obligations so long as the related Indebtedness is permitted to be incurred under the Indenture and is secured by a Lien on the same property securing such Hedging Obligation;
(7) Liens on specific items of inventory or other goods and proceeds of any Person securing such Person's obligations in respect of bankers' acceptances issued or created for the account of such Person to facilitate the purchase, shipment or storage of such inventory or other goods;
(8) Liens in favor of Warner Music or any Restricted Subsidiary;
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(9) Liens to secure any Indebtedness that is incurred to refinance any Indebtedness that has been secured by a Lien existing on the Issue Date or referred to in clauses (3), (4) and (19)(B) of this definition; provided, however, that such Liens (x) are no less favorable to the holders of the Notes and are not more favorable to the lienholders with respect to such Liens than the Liens in respect of the Indebtedness being refinanced; and (y) do not extend to or cover any property or assets of Warner Music or any of its Restricted Subsidiaries not securing the Indebtedness so refinanced;
(10) Liens on Securitization Assets and related assets of the type specified in the definition of "Securitization Financing" incurred in connection with any Qualified Securitization Financing;
(11) Liens for taxes, assessments or other governmental charges or levies not yet delinquent, or which are being contested in good faith by appropriate proceedings promptly instituted and diligently conducted or for property taxes on property that Warner Music or one of its Subsidiaries has determined to abandon if the sole recourse for such tax, assessment, charge, levy or claim is to such property;
(12) judgment liens in respect of judgments that do not constitute an Event of Default so long as such Liens are adequately bonded and any appropriate legal proceedings that may have been duly initiated for the review of such judgment have not been finally terminated or the period within which such proceedings may be initiated has not expired;
(13) pledges, deposits or security under workmen's compensation, unemployment insurance and other social security laws or regulations, or deposits to secure the performance of tenders, contracts (other than for the payment of Indebtedness) or leases, or deposits to secure public or statutory obligations, or deposits as security for contested taxes or import or customs duties or for the payment of rent, or deposits or other security securing liabilities to insurance carriers under insurance or self-insurance arrangements, in each case incurred in the ordinary course of business or consistent with past practice;
(14) Liens imposed by law, including carriers', warehousemen's, materialmen's, repairmen's and mechanics' Liens, in each case for sums not overdue by more than 30 days or, if more than 30 days overdue, are unfiled and no other action has been taken to enforce such Lien or which are being contested in good faith by appropriate proceedings promptly instituted and diligently conducted;
(15) encumbrances, ground leases, easements or reservations of, or rights of others for, licenses, rights of way, sewers, electric lines, telegraph and telephone lines and other similar purposes, or zoning, building codes or other restrictions (including, without limitation, minor defects or irregularities in title and similar encumbrances) as to the use of real properties or Liens incidental to the conduct of business or to the ownership of properties that do not in the aggregate materially adversely affect the value of said properties or materially impair their use in the operation of the business;
(16) leases, licenses, subleases or sublicenses granted to others in the ordinary course of business that do not (x) interfere in any material respect with the business of Warner Music or any of its material Restricted Subsidiaries or (y) secure any Indebtedness;
(17) banker's Liens, rights of set-off or similar rights and remedies as to deposit accounts or other funds maintained with a depositary institution, provided that (a) such deposit account is not a dedicated cash collateral account and is not subject to restrictions against access by Warner Music in excess of those set forth by regulations promulgated by the Federal Reserve Board or other applicable law and (b) such deposit account is not intended by Warner Music or any Restricted Subsidiary to provide collateral to the depositary institution;
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(18) Liens arising from Uniform Commercial Code financing statement filings regarding operating leases or consignments entered into by Warner Music and its Restricted Subsidiaries in the ordinary course of business;
(19) (A) other Liens securing Indebtedness for borrowed money with respect to property or assets with an aggregate fair market value (valued at the time of creation thereof) of not more than $15.0 million at any time and (B) Liens securing Indebtedness incurred to finance the construction, purchase or lease of, or repairs, improvements or additions to, property of such Person; provided, however, that (x) the Lien may not extend to any other property (except for accessions to such property) owned by such Person or any of its Restricted Subsidiaries at the time the Lien is incurred, (y) such Liens attach concurrently with or within 270 days after the acquisition, repair, replacement, construction or improvement (as applicable) of the property subject to such Liens and (z) with respect to Capitalized Lease Obligations, such Liens do not at any time extend to or cover any assets (except for accessions to such assets) other than the assets subject to such Capitalized Lease Obligations; provided that individual financings of equipment provided by one lender may be cross-collateralized to other financings of equipment provided by such lender;
(20) Liens to secure Non-Recourse Product Financing Indebtedness permitted to be incurred pursuant to clause (18) of the definition of Permitted Debt, which Liens may not secure Indebtedness other than Non-Recourse Product Financing Indebtedness and which Liens may not attach to assets other than the items of Product acquired, exploited, created or developed with the proceeds of such Indebtedness and Liens to secure Non-Recourse Acquisition Financing Indebtedness permitted to be incurred pursuant to clause (18) of the definition of Permitted Debt, which Liens may not secure Indebtedness other than Non-Recourse Acquisition Financing Indebtedness and which Liens may not attach to assets other than the assets acquired, exploited, created or developed with the proceeds of such Indebtedness;
(21) Liens (i) of a collection bank arising under Section 4-210 of the Uniform Commercial Code on items in the course of collection, (ii) attaching to commodity trading accounts or other commodities brokerage accounts incurred in the ordinary course of business; and (iii) in favor of a banking institution arising as a matter of law encumbering deposits (including the right of set-off) and which are within the general parameters customary in the banking industry;
(22) Liens encumbering reasonable customary initial deposits and margin deposits and similar Liens attaching to commodity trading accounts or other brokerage accounts incurred in the ordinary course of business and not for speculative purposes;
(23) Liens that are contractual rights of set-off (i) relating to the establishment of depository relations with banks not given in connection with the issuance of Indebtedness, (ii) relating to pooled deposit or sweep accounts of Warner Music or any Restricted Subsidiary to permit satisfaction of overdraft or similar obligations incurred in the ordinary course of business of Warner Music and its Restricted Subsidiaries or (iii) relating to purchase orders and other agreements entered into with customers of Warner Music or any Restricted Subsidiary in the ordinary course of business; and
(24) Liens solely on any cash earnest money deposits made by Warner Music or any of its Restricted Subsidiaries in connection with any letter of intent or purchase agreement permitted under the Indenture.
"Person" means any individual, corporation, partnership, joint venture, association, joint-stock company, trust, unincorporated organization, limited liability company or government or other entity.
"Preferred Stock" means any Equity Interest with preferential rights of payment of dividends upon liquidation, dissolution or winding up.
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"Product" means any music (including musical and audio visual recordings, musical performance, songs and compositions and also includes mail order music and activities relating or incidental to music such as touring, merchandising and artist management), music copyright, motion picture, television programming, film, videotape, digital file, video clubs, DVD manufactured or distributed or any other product produced for theatrical, non-theatrical or television release or for release in any other medium, in each case whether recorded on film, videotape, cassette, cartridge, disc or on or by any other means, method, process or device, whether now known or hereafter developed, with respect to which Warner Music or any Restricted Subsidiary:
(1) is an initial copyright owner; or
(2) acquires (or will acquire upon delivery) an equity interest, license, sublicense or administration or distribution right.
"Purchase Agreement" means the Purchase Agreement dated November 24, 2003, as amended by the amendment to the Purchase Agreement dated March 1, 2004, between Time Warner Inc. and WMG Acquisition Corp.
"Purchase Money Note" means a promissory note of a Securitization Subsidiary evidencing a line of credit, which may be irrevocable, from Holdco or any Subsidiary of Holdco to a Securitization Subsidiary in connection with a Qualified Securitization Financing, which note is intended to finance that portion of the purchase price that is not paid in cash or a contribution of equity and which (a) shall be repaid from cash available to the Securitization Subsidiary, other than (i) amounts required to be established as reserves, (ii) amounts paid to investors in respect of interest, (iii) principal and other amounts owing to such investors and (iv) amounts paid in connection with the purchase of newly generated receivables and (b) may be subordinated to the payments described in clause (a).
"Qualified Proceeds" means assets that are used or useful in, or Capital Stock of any Person engaged in, a Permitted Business; provided that the fair market value of any such assets or Capital Stock shall be determined by the Board of Directors of Warner Music in good faith, except that in the event the value of any such assets or Capital Stock exceeds $25.0 million, the fair market value shall be determined by an Independent Financial Advisor.
"Qualified Securitization Financing" means any Securitization Financing of a Securitization Subsidiary that meets the following conditions: (i) the Board of Directors of Warner Music shall have determined in good faith that such Qualified Securitization Financing (including financing terms, covenants, termination events and other provisions) is in the aggregate economically fair and reasonable to Warner Music and the Securitization Subsidiary, (ii) all sales of Securitization Assets and related assets to the Securitization Subsidiary are made at fair market value (as determined in good faith by Warner Music) and (iii) the financing terms, covenants, termination events and other provisions thereof shall be market terms (as determined in good faith by Warner Music) and may include Standard Securitization Undertakings. The grant of a security interest in any Securitization Assets of Warner Music or any of its Restricted Subsidiaries (other than a Securitization Subsidiary) to secure Indebtedness under the Credit Agreement and any Refinancing Indebtedness with respect thereto shall not be deemed a Qualified Securitization Financing.
"Representative" means the trustee, agent or representative (if any) for an issue of Senior Debt of Warner Music.
"Restricted Investment" means an Investment other than a Permitted Investment.
"Restricted Subsidiary" means, at any time, any direct or indirect Subsidiary of Warner Music (including any Foreign Subsidiary) that is not then an Unrestricted Subsidiary; provided, however, that upon the occurrence of an Unrestricted Subsidiary ceasing to be an Unrestricted Subsidiary, such Subsidiary shall be included in the definition of "Restricted Subsidiary."
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"S&P" means Standard & Poor's Ratings Services, a division of The McGraw-Hill Companies, Inc.
"Secured Indebtedness" means any Indebtedness secured by a Lien.
"Securities Act" means the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and the rules and regulations of the Commission promulgated thereunder.
"Securitization Assets" means any accounts receivable or catalog, royalty or other revenue streams from Product subject to a Qualified Securitization Financing.
"Securitization Fees" means reasonable distributions or payments made directly or by means of discounts with respect to any participation interest issued or sold in connection with, and other fees paid to a Person that is not a Securitization Subsidiary in connection with, any Qualified Securitization Financing.
"Securitization Financing" means any transaction or series of transactions that may be entered into by Holdco or any of its Subsidiaries pursuant to which Holdco or any of its Subsidiaries may sell, convey or otherwise transfer to (a) a Securitization Subsidiary (in the case of a transfer by Holdco or any of its Subsidiaries) and (b) any other Person (in the case of a transfer by a Securitization Subsidiary), or may grant a security interest in, any Securitization Assets (whether now existing or arising in the future) of Holdco or any of its Subsidiaries, and any assets related thereto including, without limitation, all collateral securing such Securitization Assets, all contracts and all guarantees or other obligations in respect of such Securitization Assets, proceeds of such Securitization Assets and other assets which are customarily transferred or in respect of which security interests are customarily granted in connection with asset securitization transactions involving Securitization Assets and any Hedging Obligations entered into by Holdco or any such Subsidiary in connection with such Securitization Assets.
"Securitization Repurchase Obligation" means any obligation of a seller of Securitization Assets in a Qualified Securitization Financing to repurchase Securitization Assets arising as a result of a breach of a representation, warranty or covenant or otherwise, including as a result of a receivable or portion thereof becoming subject to any asserted defense, dispute, offset or counterclaim of any kind as a result of any action taken by, any failure to take action by or any other event relating to the seller.
"Securitization Subsidiary" means a Wholly Owned Subsidiary of Holdco (or another Person formed for the purposes of engaging in a Qualified Securitization Financing in which Holdco or any Subsidiary of Holdco makes an Investment and to which Holdco or any Subsidiary of Holdco transfers Securitization Assets and related assets) which engages in no activities other than in connection with the financing of Securitization Assets of Holdco or its Subsidiaries, all proceeds thereof and all rights (contractual and other), collateral and other assets relating thereto, and any business or activities incidental or related to such business, and which is designated by the Board of Directors of Holdco or such other Person (as provided below) as a Securitization Subsidiary and (a) no portion of the Indebtedness or any other obligations (contingent or otherwise) of which (i) is guaranteed by Holdco or any other Subsidiary of Holdco (excluding guarantees of obligations (other than the principal of, and interest on, Indebtedness) pursuant to Standard Securitization Undertakings), (ii) is recourse to or obligates Holdco or any other Subsidiary of Holdco in any way other than pursuant to Standard Securitization Undertakings or (iii) subjects any property or asset of Holdco or any other Subsidiary of Holdco, directly or indirectly, contingently or otherwise, to the satisfaction thereof, other than pursuant to Standard Securitization Undertakings, (b) with which neither Holdco nor any other Subsidiary of Holdco has any material contract, agreement, arrangement or understanding other than on terms which Holdco reasonably believes to be no less favorable to Holdco or such Subsidiary than those that might be obtained at the time from Persons that are not Affiliates of Holdco and (e) to which neither Holdco nor any other Subsidiary of Holdco has any obligation to maintain or preserve such entity's financial condition or cause such entity to achieve certain levels of operating results. Any such designation by
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the Board of Directors of Holdco or such other Person shall be evidenced to the Trustee by filing with the Trustee a certified copy of the resolution of the Board of Directors of Holdco or such other Person giving effect to such designation and an Officer's Certificate certifying that such designation complied with the foregoing conditions.
"Senior Debt" means the principal of, premium, if any, and interest (including any interest accruing subsequent to the filing of a petition of bankruptcy at the rate provided for in the documentation with respect thereto, whether or not such interest is an allowed or allowable claim under applicable law) on any Indebtedness and any Securitization Repurchase Obligation of Warner Music, whether outstanding on the Issue Date or thereafter created, incurred or assumed, unless, in the case of any particular obligation, the instrument creating or evidencing the same or pursuant to which the same is outstanding expressly provides that such obligation shall not be senior in right of payment to the Notes. Without limiting the generality of the foregoing, "Senior Debt" shall also include the principal of, premium, if any, interest (including any interest accruing subsequent to the filing of a petition of bankruptcy at the rate provided for in the documentation with respect thereto, whether or not such interest is an allowed or allowable claim under applicable law) on, and all other amounts owing in respect of (including guarantees of the foregoing obligations):
(1) all monetary obligations of every nature of Warner Music under, or with respect to, the Credit Agreement, including, without limitation, obligations to pay principal, premium and interest, reimbursement obligations under letters of credit, fees, expenses and indemnities (and guarantees thereof); and
(2) all Hedging Obligations (and guarantees thereof),
in each case whether outstanding on the Issue Date or thereafter incurred.
Notwithstanding the foregoing, "Senior Debt" shall not include:
(1) any Indebtedness of Warner Music to a Subsidiary of Warner Music (other than any Securitization Repurchase Obligation);
(2) Indebtedness to, or guaranteed on behalf of, any shareholder, director, officer or employee of Warner Music or any Subsidiary of Warner Music (including, without limitation, amounts owed for compensation) other than the guarantee of Holdco of Indebtedness under the Credit Agreement;
(3) Indebtedness to trade creditors and other amounts incurred in connection with obtaining goods, materials or services (including guarantees thereof or instruments evidencing such liabilities);
(4) Indebtedness represented by Capital Stock;
(5) any liability for federal, state, local or other taxes owed or owing by Warner Music;
(6) that portion of any Indebtedness incurred in violation of the covenant contained under the caption "Certain CovenantsIncurrence of Indebtedness and Issuance of Preferred Stock";
(7) Indebtedness which, when incurred and without respect to any election under Section 1111(b) of Title 11, United States Code, is without recourse to Warner Music; and
(8) any Indebtedness which is, by its express terms, subordinated in right of payment to any other Indebtedness of Warner Music.
"Significant Subsidiary" means any Restricted Subsidiary that would be a "significant subsidiary" as defined in Article 1, Rule 1-02 of Regulation S-X, promulgated pursuant to the Securities Act, as such Regulation is in effect on the date hereof.
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"Specified Financings" means the financings included in the Transactions and this offering of the Notes.
"Sponsors" means Thomas H. Lee Partners, L.P. (together with any limited partner thereof, whether or not such investment in Warner Music is made through the same entity), Bain Capital Partners, LLC, Providence Equity Partners and Music Capital Partners, L.P.
"Standard Securitization Undertakings" means representations, warranties, covenants and indemnities entered into by Holdco or any Subsidiary of Holdco which Holdco has determined in good faith to be customary in a Securitization Financing, including, without limitation, those relating to the servicing of the assets of a Securitization Subsidiary, it being understood that any Securitization Repurchase Obligation shall be deemed to be a Standard Securitization Undertaking.
"Stated Maturity" means, with respect to any installment of interest or principal on any series of Indebtedness, the date on which the payment of interest or principal was scheduled to be paid in the original documentation governing such Indebtedness, and will not include any contingent obligations to repay, redeem or repurchase any such interest or principal prior to the date originally scheduled for the payment thereof.
"Stockholders Agreement" means the Stockholders Agreement by and among Warner Music, the Sponsors and/or their Affiliates and the other stockholders party thereto in effect on the Issue Date.
"Subordinated Indebtedness" means (a) with respect to Warner Music, any Indebtedness of Warner Music that is by its terms subordinated in right of payment to the Notes and (b) with respect to any Guarantor of the Notes, any Indebtedness of such Guarantor that is by its terms subordinated in right of payment to its Guarantee of the Notes.
"Subsidiary" means, with respect to any specified Person:
(1) any corporation, association or other business entity, of which more than 50% of the total voting power of shares of Capital Stock entitled (without regard to the occurrence of any contingency) to vote in the election of directors, managers or trustees thereof is at the time owned or controlled, directly or indirectly, by that Person or one or more of the other Subsidiaries of that Person (or a combination thereof); and
(2) any partnership, joint venture, limited liability company or similar entity of which (x) more than 50% of the capital accounts, distribution rights, total equity and voting interests or general or limited partnership interests, as applicable, are owned or controlled, directly or indirectly, by such Person or one or more of the other Subsidiaries of that Person or a combination thereof whether in the form of membership, general, special or limited partnership or otherwise and (y) such Person or any Wholly Owned Restricted Subsidiary of such Person is a controlling general partner or otherwise controls such entity.
"Transactions" means the transactions contemplated by (i) the Purchase Agreement, (ii) the Credit Agreement and (iii) the offering of the outstanding notes.
"Treasury Rate" means (i) with respect to the Dollar Notes, as of the applicable redemption date, the yield to maturity as of such redemption date of United States Treasury securities with a constant maturity (as compiled and published in the most recent Federal Reserve Statistical Release H.15 (519) that has become publicly available at least two business days prior to such redemption date (or, if such Statistical Release is no longer published, any publicly available source of similar market data)) most nearly equal to the period from such redemption date to April 15, 2009; provided, however, that if the period from such redemption date to April 15, 2009 is less than one year, the weekly average yield on actually traded United States Treasury securities adjusted to a constant maturity of one year will be used and (ii) with respect to the Sterling Notes, the yield to maturity as of such redemption date of U.K. Government Securities with a constant maturity (as compiled by the Office for National Statistics
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and published in the most recent financial statistics that have become publicly available at least two business days in London prior to such redemption date (or, if such financial statistics are no longer published, any publicly available source of similar market data)) most nearly equal to the period from such redemption date to April 15, 2009; provided, however, that if the period from such redemption date to April 15, 2009 is less than one year, the weekly average yield on actually traded U.K. Government Securities adjusted to a constant maturity of one year shall be used.
"U.K. Government Securities" means securities that are:
(1) direct obligations of the United Kingdom or issued by any agency or instrumentality thereof for the timely payment of which its full faith and credit is pledged, or
(2) obligations of a Person controlled or supervised by and acting as an agency or instrumentality of the United Kingdom, the timely payment of which is unconditionally guaranteed as a full faith and credit obligation by the United Kingdom.
which, in each case, are not callable or redeemable at the option of the issuer thereof, and shall also include a depository receipt issued by a bank (as defined in Section 3(a)(2) of the Securities Act) as custodian with respect to any such U.K. Government Securities or a specific payment of principal of or interest on any such U.K. Government Securities held by such custodian for the account of the holder of such depository receipt; provided that (except as required by law) such custodian is not authorized to make any deduction from the amount payable to the holder of such depository receipt from any amount received by the custodian in respect of the U.K. Government Securities or the specific payment of principal or interest on the U.K. Government Securities evidenced by such depository receipt.
"Unrestricted Subsidiary" means (i) any Subsidiary of Warner Music that at the time of determination is an Unrestricted Subsidiary (as designated by the Board of Directors of Warner Music, as provided below) and (ii) any Subsidiary of an Unrestricted Subsidiary. The Board of Directors of Warner Music may designate any Subsidiary of Warner Music (including any existing Subsidiary and any newly acquired or newly formed Subsidiary) to be an Unrestricted Subsidiary unless such Subsidiary or any of its Subsidiaries owns any Equity Interests or Indebtedness of, or owns or holds any Lien on, any property of, Warner Music or any Subsidiary of Warner Music (other than any Subsidiary of the Subsidiary to be so designated); provided that (a) any Unrestricted Subsidiary must be an entity of which shares of the Capital Stock or other equity interests (including partnership interests) entitled to cast at least a majority of the votes that may be cast by all shares or equity interests having ordinary voting power for the election of directors or other governing body are owned, directly or indirectly, by Warner Music, (b) such designation complies with the covenant contained under the caption "Certain CovenantsRestricted Payments" and (c) each of (I) the Subsidiary to be so designated and (II) its Subsidiaries has not at the time of designation, and does not thereafter, create, incur, issue, assume, guarantee or otherwise become directly or indirectly liable with respect to any Indebtedness pursuant to which the lender has recourse to any of the assets of Warner Music or any Restricted Subsidiary. The Board of Directors may designate any Unrestricted Subsidiary to be a Restricted Subsidiary, provided that, immediately after giving effect to such designation, no Default or Event of Default shall have occurred and (1) Warner Music could incur $1.00 of additional Indebtedness pursuant to the Fixed Charge Coverage Ratio test described under the first paragraph of "Certain CovenantsIncurrence of Indebtedness and Issuance of Preferred Stock," or (2) the Fixed Charge Coverage Ratio for Warner Music and its Restricted Subsidiaries would be greater than such ratio for Warner Music and its Restricted Subsidiaries immediately prior to such designation, in each case on a pro forma basis taking into account such designation. Any such designation by the Board of Directors shall be notified by Warner Music to the Trustee by promptly filing with the Trustee a copy of the board resolution giving effect to such designation and an Officers' Certificate certifying that such designation complied with the foregoing provisions.
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"U.S. Government Securities" means securities that are:
(a) direct obligations of the United States of America for the timely payment of which its full faith and credit is pledged; or
(b) obligations of a Person controlled or supervised by and acting as an agency or instrumentality of the United States of America the timely payment of which is unconditionally guaranteed as a full faith and credit obligation by the United States of America,
which, in either case, are not callable or redeemable at the option of the issuers thereof, and shall also include a depository receipt issued by a bank (as defined in Section 3(a)(2) of the Securities Act), as custodian with respect to any such Government Securities or a specific payment of principal of or interest on any such Government Securities held by such custodian for the account of the holder of such depository receipt; provided that (except as required by law) such custodian is not authorized to make any deduction from the amount payable to the holder of such depository receipt from any amount received by the custodian in respect of the Government Securities or the specific payment of principal of or interest on the Government Securities evidenced by such depository receipt.
"Voting Stock" of any Person as of any date means the Capital Stock of such Person that is at the time entitled to vote in the election of the Board of Directors of such Person.
"Weighted Average Life to Maturity" means, when applied to any Indebtedness at any date, the number of years obtained by dividing:
(1) the sum of the products obtained by multiplying (a) the amount of each then remaining installment, sinking fund, serial maturity or other required payment of principal, including payment at final maturity, in respect of the Indebtedness, by (b) the number of years (calculated to the nearest one-twelfth) that will elapse between such date and the making of such payment; by
(2) the then outstanding principal amount of such Indebtedness.
"Wholly Owned Restricted Subsidiary" is any Wholly Owned Subsidiary that is a Restricted Subsidiary.
"Wholly Owned Subsidiary" of any Person means a Subsidiary of such Person, 100% of the outstanding Capital Stock or other ownership interests of which (other than directors' qualifying shares) shall at the time be owned by such Person or by one or more Wholly Owned Subsidiaries of such Person or by such Person and one or more Wholly Owned Subsidiaries of such Person.
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EXCHANGE OFFERS; REGISTRATION RIGHTS
Warner Music, the guarantors and the initial purchasers entered into a registration rights agreement on April 8, 2004. In the agreement, Warner Music and the guarantors agreed, for the benefit of the holders of the notes, to use their reasonable best efforts to file with the SEC and cause to become effective a registration statement relating to an offer to exchange the outstanding notes for an issue of SEC-registered notes with terms identical to the outstanding notes (except that the exchange notes will not be subject to restrictions on transfer or to any increase in annual interest rate as described below). The exchange notes will be guaranteed by the guarantors of the outstanding notes.
When the SEC declares the exchange offer registration statement effective, Warner Music and the guarantors will offer the exchange notes in return for the outstanding notes. The exchange offers will remain open for at least 20 business days after the date that notice of the exchange offers is mailed to holders of the outstanding notes. For each outstanding note surrendered under the exchange offers, the holders of the outstanding notes will receive an exchange note of equal principal amount. Interest on each exchange notes will accrue from the last interest payment date on which interest was paid on the outstanding notes or, if no interest has been paid on the outstanding notes, from the date of initial issuance of the outstanding notes.
If applicable interpretations of the staff of the SEC do not permit Warner Music and the guarantors to effect the exchange offers, they will use their reasonable best efforts to cause to become effective a shelf registration statement relating to resales of the outstanding notes or the exchange notes, as the case may be, and to keep the shelf registration statement effective for two years or such shorter period ending when all outstanding notes or exchange notes covered by the statement have been sold in the manner set forth and as contemplated in the statement or to the extent that the applicable provisions of Rule 144(k) under the Securities Act are amended or revised. Warner Music and the guarantors will, in the event of such a shelf registration, provide to each noteholder copies of a prospectus, notify each noteholder when the shelf registration statement has become effective and take certain other actions to permit resales of the notes. A noteholder that sells notes under the shelf registration statement generally will be required to be named as a selling security holder in the related prospectus and to deliver a prospectus to purchasers, will be subject to certain of the civil liability provisions under the Securities Act in connection with those sales and will be bound by the provisions of the registration rights agreement that are applicable to such a noteholder (including certain indemnification obligations).
If the exchange offers are not completed (or, if required, the shelf registration statement is not declared effective) on or before the date that is 360 days after the closing date, the annual interest rate borne by the notes will be increased by 0.25% per annum (which rate will be increased by an additional 0.25% per annum for each subsequent 90-day period that such additional interest continues to accrue, provided that the rate at which such additional interest accrues may in no event exceed 1.00% per annum) until the exchange offers are completed or the shelf registration statement is declared effective.
If Warner Music effects the exchange offers, it will be entitled to close the exchange offers 20 business days after commencement of the exchange offers, provided that Warner Music has accepted all notes validly surrendered in accordance with the terms of the exchange offers. Notes not tendered in the exchange offers will bear interest at the applicable rate set forth on the cover page of this prospectus and be subject to all the terms and conditions specified in the indenture, including transfer restrictions.
The exchange dollar notes will be accepted for clearance through The Depository Trust Company. The exchange sterling notes will be accepted for clearance through Euroclear and Clearstream, Luxembourg.
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Application has been made to list the exchange sterling notes on the Luxembourg Stock Exchange. We will advise the Luxembourg Stock Exchange of the Exchange Offers prior to its commencement and will also advise the Luxembourg Stock Exchange if the Exchange Offers are extended and when the Exchange Offers close after the consummation of the Exchange Offers. We will provide the Luxembourg Stock Exchange with a supplementary listing memorandum providing the new code, deposit date, exchange amount and principal amount of new exchange sterling notes outstanding. All such notices regarding the exchange sterling notes will, if and so long as the exchange sterling notes are listed on the Luxembourg Stock Exchange and the rules of that stock exchange so require, be published in a daily newspaper having general circulation in Luxembourg (which is expected to be the Luxemburger Wort). Copies of all documentation in connection with the exchange offers will be available and all actions necessary in connection with the exchange offers can be carried out during normal business hours on any weekday at the office of the Luxembourg listing agent for the exchange sterling notes.
This summary of the provisions of the registration rights agreement does not purport to be complete and is subject to, and is qualified in its entirety by reference to, all the provisions of the registration rights agreement, which is filed as an exhibit to the registration statement of which this prospectus is a part.
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Each issue of exchange notes issued in exchange for outstanding notes will be represented by a global note in definitive, fully registered form, without interest coupons (collectively, the "Global Notes"). The Global Notes representing the exchange dollar notes (collectively, the "Dollar Global Notes") and will be deposited with the applicable trustee as custodian for The Depository Trust Company ("DTC") and registered in the name of a nominee of DTC.
The Global Notes representing the exchange sterling notes (collectively, the "Sterling Global Notes") will be deposited with a common depositary (the "Common Depositary") for the Euroclear System as operated by Euroclear Bank S.A./N.V. ("Euroclear") and Clearstream Banking, S.A. ("Clearstream, Luxembourg," formerly Cedelbank) and registered in the name of a nominee of the Common Depositary.
Except in the limited circumstances described below, owners of beneficial interests in global notes will not be entitled to receive physical delivery of certificated notes. Transfers of beneficial interests in the global notes will be subject to the applicable rules and procedures of DTC, Euroclear and Clearstream, Luxembourg and their respective direct or indirect participants, which rules and procedures may change from time to time.
Global Notes
The following description of the operations and procedures of DTC, Euroclear and Clearstream, Luxembourg are provided solely as a matter of convenience. These operations and procedures are solely within the control of the respective settlement systems and are subject to changes by them from time to time. We take no responsibility for these operations and procedures and urge investors to contact the systems or their participants directly to discuss these matters.
Upon the issuance of the Dollar Global Notes, DTC will credit, on its internal system, the respective principal amount of the individual beneficial interests represented by such global notes to the accounts of persons who have accounts with such depositary. Ownership of beneficial interests in a Dollar Global Note will be limited to its participants or persons who hold interests through its participants. Ownership of beneficial interests in the Dollar Global Notes will be shown on, and the transfer of that ownership will be effected only through, records maintained by DTC or its nominee (with respect to interests of participants) and the records of participants (with respect to interests of persons other than participants).
Upon the issuance of the Sterling Global Notes, the Common Depositary will credit, on its internal system, the respective principal amount of the beneficial interests represented by such global note to the accounts of Euroclear and Clearstream, Luxembourg. Euroclear and Clearstream, Luxembourg will credit, on their internal systems, the respective principal amounts of the individual beneficial interests in such global notes to the accounts of persons who have accounts with Euroclear and Clearstream, Luxembourg. Ownership of beneficial interests in the Sterling Global Notes will be limited to participants or persons who hold interests through participants in Euroclear or Clearstream, Luxembourg. Ownership of beneficial interests in the Sterling Global Notes will be shown on and the transfer of that ownership will be effected only through, records maintained by Euroclear and Clearstream, Luxembourg or their nominees (with respect to interests of participants) and the records of participants (with respect to interests of persons other than participants).
As long as DTC or the Common Depositary, or its respective nominee, is the registered holder of a global note, DTC or the Common Depositary or such nominee, as the case may be, will be considered the sole owner and holder of the notes represented by such global notes for all purposes under the indenture and the notes. Unless (1) in the case of a Dollar Global Note, DTC notifies us that it is unwilling or unable to continue as depositary for such global note or ceases to be a "Clearing
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Agency" registered under the Exchange Act, (2) in the case of a Sterling Global Note, Euroclear and Clearstream, Luxembourg notify us they are unwilling or unable to continue as clearing agency, (3) in the case of a Sterling Global Note, the Common Depositary notifies us that it is unwilling or unable to continue as Common Depositary and a successor Common Depositary is not appointed within 90 days of such notice or (4) in the case of any global note, an event of default has occurred and is continuing with respect to such note, owners of beneficial interests in such global note will not be entitled to have any portions of such global note registered in their names, will not receive or be entitled to receive physical delivery of notes in certificated form and will not be considered the owners or holders of such global note (or any notes represented thereby) under the indenture or the notes. In addition, no beneficial owners of an interest in a global note will be able to transfer that interest except in accordance with DTC's and/or Euroclear's and Clearstream, Luxembourg's applicable procedures (in addition to those under the indenture).
Investors may hold their interests in the Sterling Global Notes through Euroclear or Clearstream, Luxembourg, if they are participants in such systems, or indirectly through organizations that are participants in such systems. Investors may hold their interests in the Dollar Global Notes directly through DTC, if they are participants in such system, or indirectly through organizations (including Euroclear and Clearstream, Luxembourg) which are participants in such system. All interests in a global note may be subject to the procedures and requirements of DTC and/or Euroclear and Clearstream, Luxembourg.
Payments of the principal of and interest on Dollar Global Notes will be made to DTC or its nominee as the registered owner thereof. Payments of the principal of and interest on the Sterling Global Notes will be made to the order of the Common Depositary or its nominee as the registered owner thereof. Neither we, the Trustee, DTC, the Common Depositary nor any of their respective agents will have any responsibility or liability for any aspect of the records relating to or payments made on account of beneficial ownership interests in the global notes or for maintaining, supervising or reviewing any records relating to such beneficial ownership interests.
We expect that DTC or its nominee, upon receipt of any payment of principal or interest in respect of a global note representing any notes held by it or its nominee, will immediately credit participants' accounts with payments in amounts proportionate to their respective beneficial interests in the principal amount of such global note for such notes as shown on the records of DTC or its nominee. We expect that the Common Depositary, in its capacity as paying agent, upon receipt of any payment of principal or interest in respect of a global note representing any notes held by it or its nominee, will immediately credit the accounts of Euroclear and Clearstream, Luxembourg, which in turn will immediately credit accounts of participants in Euroclear and Clearstream, Luxembourg with payments in amounts proportionate to their respective beneficial interests in the principal amount of such global note for such notes as shown on the records of Euroclear and Clearstream, Luxembourg. We also expect that payments by participants to owners of beneficial interests in such global note held through such participants will be governed by standing instructions and customary practices, as is now the case with securities held for the accounts of customers registered in "street name." Such payments will be the responsibility of such participants.
Because DTC, Euroclear and Clearstream, Luxembourg can only act on behalf of their respective participants, who in turn act on behalf of indirect participants and certain banks, the ability of a holder of a beneficial interest in global notes to pledge such interest to persons or entities that do not participate in the DTC, Euroclear or Clearstream, Luxembourg systems, or otherwise take actions in respect of such interest may be limited by the lack of a definitive certificate for such interest. The laws of some countries and some U.S. states require that certain persons take physical delivery of securities in certificated form. Consequently, the ability to transfer beneficial interests in a global note to such persons may be limited. Because DTC, Euroclear and Clearstream, Luxembourg can act only on behalf of participants, which in turn, act on behalf of indirect participants and certain banks, the ability of a
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person having a beneficial interest in a global note to pledge such interest to persons or entities that do not participate in the DTC system or in Euroclear and Clearstream, Luxembourg, as the case may be, or otherwise take actions in respect of such interest, may be affected by the lack of a physical certificate evidencing such interest.
Except for trades involving only Euroclear and Clearstream, Luxembourg participants, interests in the Dollar Global Notes will trade in DTC's Same-Day Funds Settlement System and secondary market trading activity in such interests will therefore settle in immediately available funds, subject in all cases to the rules and procedures of DTC and its participants. Transfers of interests in Dollar Global Notes between participants in DTC will be effected in accordance with DTC's procedures, and will be settled in same-day funds. Transfers of interests in Sterling Global Notes and Dollar Global Notes between participants in Euroclear and Clearstream, Luxembourg will be effected in the ordinary way in accordance with their respective rules and operating procedures.
Subject to compliance with the transfer restrictions applicable to the notes described above, cross-market transfers of beneficial interests in Dollar Global Notes between DTC participants, on the one hand, and Euroclear or Clearstream, Luxembourg participants, on the other hand, will be effected through DTC in accordance with DTC's rules on behalf of Euroclear or Clearstream, Luxembourg, as the case may be, by its respective depositary; however, such crossmarket transactions will require delivery of instructions to Euroclear or Clearstream, Luxembourg, as the case may be, by the counterparty in such system in accordance with the rules and procedures and within the established deadlines (Brussels time) of such system. Euroclear or Clearstream, Luxembourg, as the case may be, will, if the transaction meets its settlement requirements deliver instructions to its respective depositary to take action to effect final settlement on its behalf by delivering or receiving interests in the relevant global note in DTC and making or receiving payment in accordance with normal procedures for same-day funds settlement applicable to DTC. Euroclear participants and Clearstream, Luxembourg participants may not deliver instructions directly to the depositories for Euroclear or Clearstream, Luxembourg.
Because of time zone differences, the securities account of a Euroclear or Clearstream, Luxembourg participant purchasing an interest in a Dollar Global Note from a DTC participant will be credited, and any such crediting will be reported to the relevant Euroclear or Clearstream, Luxembourg participant, during the securities settlement processing day (which must be a business day for Euroclear and Clearstream, Luxembourg immediately following the DTC settlement date). Cash received in Euroclear or Clearstream, Luxembourg as a result of sales of interests in a global note by or through a Euroclear or Clearstream, Luxembourg participant to a DTC participant will be received with value on the DTC settlement date but will be available in the relevant Euroclear or Clearstream, Luxembourg cash account only as of the business day for Euroclear or Clearstream, Luxembourg following the DTC settlement date.
DTC, Euroclear and Clearstream, Luxembourg have advised us that they will take any action permitted to be taken by a holder of notes (including the presentation of notes for exchange as described below) only at the direction of one or more participants to whose account with DTC or Euroclear or Clearstream, Luxembourg, as the case may be, interests in the global notes are credited and only in respect of such portion of the aggregate principal amount of the notes as to which such participant or participants has or have given such direction. However, if there is an event of default under the notes, DTC, Euroclear and Clearstream, Luxembourg reserve the right to exchange the global notes for legended notes in certificated form, and to distribute such notes to their respective participants.
DTC has advised us as follows: DTC is a limited purpose trust company organized under the laws of the State of New York, a member of the Federal Reserve system, a "clearing corporation" within the meaning of the Uniform Commercial Code and a "Clearing Agency" registered pursuant to the
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provisions of Section 17A of the Exchange Act. DTC was created to hold securities for its participants and facilitate the clearance and settlement of securities transactions between participants through electronic book-entry changes in accounts of its participants, thereby eliminating the need for physical transfer and delivery of certificates. Participants include securities brokers and dealers, banks, trust companies and clearing corporations and may include certain other organizations. Indirect access to the DTC system is available to other entities such as banks, brokers, dealers and trust companies that clear through or maintain a custodial relationship with a participant, either directly or indirectly ("indirect participants").
Euroclear and Clearstream, Luxembourg have advised us as follows: Euroclear and Clearstream, Luxembourg each hold securities for their account holders and facilitate the clearance and settlement of securities transactions by electronic book-entry transfer between their respective account holders, thereby eliminating the need for physical movements of certificates and any risk from lack of simultaneous transfers of securities.
Euroclear and Clearstream, Luxembourg each provide various services, including safekeeping, administration, clearance and settlement of internationally traded securities and securities lending and borrowing. Euroclear and Clearstream, Luxembourg each also deal with domestic securities markets in several countries through established depository and custodial relationships. The respective systems of Euroclear and Clearstream, Luxembourg have established an electronic bridge between their two systems across which their respective account holders may settle trades with each other.
Account holders in both Euroclear and Clearstream, Luxembourg are worldwide financial institutions including underwriters, securities brokers and dealers, trust companies and clearing corporations. Indirect access to both Euroclear and Clearstream, Luxembourg is available to other institutions that clear through or maintain a custodial relationship with an account holder of either system.
An account holder's overall contractual relations with either Euroclear or Clearstream, Luxembourg are governed by the respective rules and operating procedures of Euroclear or Clearstream, Luxembourg and any applicable laws. Both Euroclear and Clearstream, Luxembourg act under such rules and operating procedures only on behalf of their respective account holders, and have no record of or relationship with persons holding through their respective account holders.
Although DTC, Euroclear and Clearstream, Luxembourg currently follow the foregoing procedures to facilitate transfers of interests in global notes among participants of DTC, Euroclear and Clearstream, Luxembourg, they are under no obligation to do so, and such procedures may be discontinued or modified at any time. Neither we nor the Trustee will have any responsibility for the performance by DTC, Euroclear or Clearstream, Luxembourg or their respective participants or indirect participants of their respective obligations under the rules and procedures governing their operations.
Certificated Notes
If any depositary is at any time unwilling or unable to continue as a depositary for notes for the reasons set forth above under "Global Notes," we will issue certificates for such notes in definitive, fully registered, non-global form without interest coupons in exchange for the applicable global notes. Certificates for notes delivered in exchange for any global note or beneficial interests therein will be registered in the names, and issued in any approved denominations, requested by DTC, Euroclear, Clearstream, Luxembourg or the Common Depositary (in accordance with their customary procedures).
The holder of a non-global note may transfer such note, subject to compliance with the provisions of the applicable legend, by surrendering it at the office or agency maintained by us for such purpose in The City and State of New York or in London, England, which initially will be the offices of the
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Trustee in such locations or, in the case of sterling notes, to the transfer agent in Luxembourg. Upon the transfer, change or replacement of any note bearing a legend, or upon specific request for removal of a legend on a note, we will deliver only notes that bear such legend, or will refuse to remove such legend, as the case may be, unless there is delivered to us such satisfactory evidence, which may include an opinion of counsel, as may reasonably be required by us that neither such legend nor any restrictions on transfer set forth therein are required to ensure compliance with the provisions of the Securities Act. Before any note in non-global form may be transferred to a person who takes delivery in the form of an interest in any global note, the transferor will be required to provide the Trustee with a Restricted Global Note Certificate or a Regulation S Global Note Certificate, as the case may be. Upon transfer or partial redemption of any note, new certificates may be obtained from the Trustee or from the transfer agent in Luxembourg.
Notwithstanding any statement herein, we and the Trustee reserve the right to impose such transfer, certification, exchange or other requirements, and to require such restrictive legends on certificates evidencing notes, as they may determine are necessary to ensure compliance with the securities laws of the U.S. and any state therein and any other applicable laws or as DTC, Euroclear or Clearstream, Luxembourg may require.
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MATERIAL U.S. FEDERAL INCOME TAX CONSEQUENCES
The exchange of outstanding notes for exchange notes in the exchange offers will not constitute a taxable event to holders for United States federal income tax purposes. Consequently, no gain or loss will be recognized by a holder upon receipt of an exchange note, the holding period of the exchange note will include the holding period of the outstanding note exchanged therefor, and the basis of the exchange note will be the same as the basis of the outstanding note immediately before the exchange.
In any event, persons considering the exchange of outstanding notes for exchange notes should consult their own tax advisors concerning the United States federal income tax consequences in light of their particular situations as well as any consequences arising under the laws of any other taxing jurisdiction.
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The following is a summary of certain considerations associated with the purchase of the outstanding notes and exchange notes by employee benefit plans that are subject to Title I of the U.S. Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974, as amended ("ERISA"), plans, individual retirement accounts and other arrangements that are subject to Section 4975 of the Code or provisions under any federal, state, local, non-U.S. or other laws or regulations that are similar to such provisions of the Code or ERISA (collectively, "Similar Laws"), and entities whose underlying assets are considered to include "plan assets" of such plans, accounts and arrangements (each, a "Plan").
General Fiduciary Matters
ERISA and the Code impose certain duties on persons who are fiduciaries of a Plan subject to Title I of ERISA or Section 4975 of the Code (an "ERISA Plan") and prohibit certain transactions involving the assets of an ERISA Plan and its fiduciaries or other interested parties. Under ERISA and the Code, any person who exercises any discretionary authority or control over the administration of such an ERISA Plan or the management or disposition of the assets of such an ERISA Plan, or who renders investment advice for a fee or other compensation to such an ERISA Plan, is generally considered to be a fiduciary of the ERISA Plan.
In considering an investment in the notes of a portion of the assets of any Plan, a fiduciary should determine whether the investment is in accordance with the documents and instruments governing the Plan and the applicable provisions of ERISA, the Code or any Similar Law relating to a fiduciary's duties to the Plan including, without limitation, the prudence, diversification, delegation of control and prohibited transaction provisions of ERISA, the Code and any other applicable Similar Laws.
Prohibited Transaction Issues
Section 406 of ERISA and Section 4975 of the Code prohibit ERISA Plans from engaging in specified transactions involving plan assets with persons or entities who are "parties in interest", within the meaning of ERISA, or "disqualified persons", within the meaning of Section 4975 of the Code, unless an exemption is available. A party in interest or disqualified person who engaged in a non-exempt prohibited transaction may be subject to excise taxes and other penalties and liabilities under ERISA and the Code. In addition, the fiduciary of the ERISA Plan that engaged in such a non-exempt prohibited transaction may be subject to penalties and liabilities under ERISA and the Code. The acquisition and/or holding of notes by an ERISA Plan with respect to which Warner Music Group or the guarantors is considered a party in interest or a disqualified person may constitute or result in a direct or indirect prohibited transaction under Section 406 of ERISA and/or Section 4975 of the Code, unless the investment is acquired and is held in accordance with an applicable statutory, class or individual prohibited transaction exemption. In this regard, the U.S. Department of Labor (the "DOL") has issued prohibited transaction class exemptions, or "PTCEs", that may apply to the acquisition and holding of the notes. These class exemptions include, without limitation, PTCE 84-14 respecting transactions determined by independent qualified professional asset managers, PTCE 90-1 respecting insurance company pooled separate accounts, PTCE 91-38 respecting bank collective investment funds, PTCE 95-60 respecting life insurance company general accounts and PTCE 96-23 respecting transactions determined by in-house asset managers, although there can be no assurance that all of the conditions of any such exemptions will be satisfied.
Because of the foregoing, the notes should not be acquired or held by any person investing "plan assets" of any Plan, unless such acquisition and holding will not constitute a non-exempt prohibited transaction under ERISA and the Code or similar violation of any applicable Similar Laws.
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Representation
Accordingly, by acceptance of a note, each purchaser and subsequent transferee of a note will be deemed to have represented and warranted that either (1) no portion of the assets used by such purchaser or transferee to acquire and hold the notes constitutes assets of any Plan or (2) the purchase and holding of the notes by such acquirer or transferee will not constitute a non-exempt prohibited transaction under Section 406 of ERISA or Section 4975 of the Code or a violation under any applicable Similar Laws.
The foregoing discussion is general in nature and is not intended to be all inclusive. Due to the complexity of these rules and the penalties that may be imposed upon persons involved in non-exempt prohibited transactions, it is particularly important that fiduciaries, or other persons considering acquiring the notes on behalf of, or with the assets of, any Plan, consult with their counsel regarding the potential applicability of ERISA, Section 4975 of the Code and any Similar Laws to such investment and whether an exemption would be applicable to the acquisition and holding of the notes.
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Each broker-dealer that receives exchange notes for its own account pursuant to the exchange offers must acknowledge that it will deliver a prospectus in connection with any resale of the exchange notes. This prospectus, as it may be amended or supplemented from time to time, may be used by a broker-dealer in connection with resales of exchange notes received in exchange for outstanding notes where the outstanding notes were acquired as a result of market-making activities or other trading activities. To the extent any such broker-dealer participates in the exchange offers, we have agreed that for a period of up to 90 days, we will use our reasonable best efforts to make this prospectus, as amended or supplemented, available to such broker-dealer for use in connection with any such resale, and will deliver as many additional copies of this prospectus and each amendment or supplement to this prospectus and any documents incorporated by reference in this prospectus as such broker-dealer may reasonably request.
We will not receive any proceeds from any sale of exchange notes by broker-dealers. Exchange notes received by broker-dealers for their own accounts pursuant to the exchange offers may be sold from time to time in one or more transactions in the over-the-counter market, in negotiated transactions, through the writing of options on the exchange notes or a combination of these methods of resale, at market prices prevailing at the time of resale, at prices related to the prevailing market prices or negotiated prices. Any resale may be made directly to purchasers or to or through brokers or dealers who may receive compensation in the form of commissions or concessions from any broker-dealer or the purchasers of any exchange notes. Any broker-dealer that resells exchange notes that were received by it for its own account pursuant to the exchange offers and any broker or dealer that participates in a distribution of the exchange notes may be deemed to be an "underwriter" within the meaning of the Securities Act and any profit on any resale of exchange notes and any commissions or concessions received by these persons may be deemed to be underwriting compensation under the Securities Act. The letter of transmittal states that by acknowledging that it will deliver and by delivering a prospectus, a broker-dealer will not be deemed to admit that it is an "underwriter" within the meaning of the Securities Act.
We have agreed to pay all expenses incident to the exchange offers and will indemnify the holders of outstanding notes, including any broker-dealers, against certain liabilities, including liabilities under the Securities Act.
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The validity of the exchange notes and related guarantees offered hereby will be passed upon by Simpson Thacher & Bartlett LLP, New York, New York; Gelfand Stein & Wasson LLP, Los Angeles, California; McCarter & English LLP, Newark, New Jersey; Holland & Hart LLP, Cheyenne, Wyoming; and Baker, Donelson, Bearman, Caldwell & Berkowitz, PC, Memphis, Tennessee.
The consolidated and combined financial statements of Warner Music Group as of September 30, 2004 and November 30, 2003 (Predecessor) and for the seven months ended September 30, 2004, three months ended February 29, 2004 (Predecessor) and each of the two years ended November 30, 2003 (Predecessor), appearing in the Prospectus and Registration Statement, have been audited by Ernst & Young LLP, independent registered public accounting firm, as stated in their reports thereon appearing elsewhere herein, and are included in reliance upon such reports given on the authority of such firm as experts in accounting and auditing.
We have filed with the SEC a registration statement on Form S-4 under the Securities Act with respect to the exchange notes being offered hereby. This prospectus, which forms a part of the registration statement, does not contain all of the information set forth in the registration statement. For further information with respect to us and the exchange notes, reference is made to the registration statement. Statements contained in this prospectus as to the contents of any contract or other document are not necessarily complete, and, where such contract or other document is an exhibit to the registration statement, each such statement is qualified by the provisions in such exhibit to which reference is hereby made. We are not currently subject to the informational requirements of the Exchange Act. As a result of the offering of the exchange notes, we will become subject to the informational requirements of the Exchange Act and, in accordance therewith, will file reports and other information with the SEC. The registration statement and other information can be inspected and copied at the Public Reference Room of the SEC located at Room 1024, Judiciary Plaza, 450 Fifth Street, N.W., Washington D.C. 20549. Copies of such materials, including copies of all or any portion of the registration statement, can be obtained from the Public Reference Room of the SEC at prescribed rates. You can call the SEC at 1-800-SEC-0330 to obtain information on the operation of the Public Reference Room. Such materials may also be accessed electronically by means of the SEC's home page on the Internet (http://www.sec.gov).
Application has been made to list the notes on the Luxembourg Stock Exchange, but there can be no assurance that the notes will be approved for listing or that we will be able to continue to maintain such listing in the future. Prior to the listing, a legal notice relating to the issuance of the notes and our Certificate of Incorporation will be deposited with the Registre de Commerce des Sociétés à Luxembourg (Commercial Register at Luxembourg) where you may request copies. In addition, for so long as the notes are listed on the Luxembourg Stock Exchange and the rules of the Luxembourg Stock Exchange so require, we will also provide a copy of all of the foregoing information and reports to the Luxembourg Stock Exchange and make this information available in Luxembourg at the office of the Luxembourg Paying Agent.
209
WARNER MUSIC GROUP
(Otherwise known as WMG Acquisition Corp.)
CONSOLIDATED AND COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Seven Months Ended September 30, 2004, Three Months Ended February 29,
2004
and Years Ended November 30, 2003 and 2002
Independent Auditors' Reports |
F-2 |
|
Consolidated and Combined Balance Sheets |
F-4 |
|
Consolidated and Combined Statements of Operations |
F-5 |
|
Consolidated and Combined Statements of Cash Flows |
F-7 |
|
Consolidated and Combined Statements of Shareholder's and Group Equity |
F-8 |
|
Notes to Consolidated and Combined Financial Statements |
F-10 |
|
Supplementary InformationCondensed Consolidating Financial Statements |
F-63 |
|
Schedule IIValuation and Qualifying Accounts |
F-76 |
F-1
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
The Board of Directors and Shareholders of Warner Music Group
We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheet of Warner Music Group (the "Company") as of September 30, 2004, as defined in Note 2, and the related consolidated statements of operations, shareholders' equity, and cash flows for the seven months ended September 30, 2004. Our audit also included the financial statement schedule listed in the Index at Item 15(a). These financial statements and schedule are the responsibility of the Company's management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements and schedule based on our audit.
We conducted our audit in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. An audit also includes assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinion.
In our opinion, the financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the consolidated financial position of the Company at September 30, 2004, and the consolidated results of its operations and its cash flows for the seven months ended September 30, 2004, in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles. Also, in our opinion, the related financial statement schedule, when considered in relation to the basic financial statements taken as a whole, present fairly in all material respects the information set forth therein.
As described in Note 17 to the consolidated and combined financial statements, the Company adopted Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 123, "Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation," effective March 1, 2004.
Our audit was conducted for the purpose of forming an opinion on the financial statements taken as a whole. The condensed consolidating financial statements are presented for purposes of additional analysis and is not a required part of the financial statements. Such information has been subjected to the auditing procedures applied in our audit of the financial statements and, in our opinion, is fairly stated in all material respects in relation to the basic financial statements taken as whole.
/s/ ERNST & YOUNG LLP
December 16,
2004
New York, New York
F-2
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
The Shareholder of Warner Music Group
We have audited the accompanying combined balance sheet of Warner Music Group (the "Company") as of November 30, 2003 (Predecessor Basis), as defined in Note 2, and the related combined statements of operations, group equity, and cash flows for the three months ended February 29, 2004 (Predecessor Basis) and each of the two years ended November 30, 2003 (Predecessor Basis). Our audit also included the financial statement schedule listed in the Index at Item 15(a). These financial statements and schedule are the responsibility of the Company's management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements and schedule based on our audits.
We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. An audit also includes assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.
In our opinion, the financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the combined financial position of the Company at November 30, 2003 (Predecessor Basis), and the combined results of its operations and its cash flows for the three months ended February 29, 2004 (Predecessor Basis), and each of the two years ended November 30, 2003 (Predecessor Basis), in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles. Also, in our opinion, the related financial statement schedule, when considered in relation to the basic financial statements taken as a whole, present fairly in all material respects the information set forth therein.
Our audits were conducted for the purpose of forming an opinion on the financial statements taken as a whole. The condensed consolidating financial statements are presented for purposes of additional analysis and are not a required part of the financial statements. Such information has been subjected to the auditing procedures applied in our audits of the financial statements and, in our opinion, is fairly stated in all material respects in relation to the basic financial statements taken as whole.
/s/ ERNST & YOUNG LLP
July 8,
2004
New York, New York
F-3
Warner Music Group
(Otherwise known as WMG Acquisition Corp.)
Consolidated and Combined Balance Sheets
|
Successor |
Predecessor |
||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
September 30, 2004 |
November 30, 2003 |
||||||
|
(in millions) |
|||||||
Assets | ||||||||
Current assets: | ||||||||
Cash and equivalents(a) | $ | 555 | $ | 144 | ||||
Accounts receivable, less allowances of $222 and $291 million(b) | 571 | 736 | ||||||
Inventories | 65 | 61 | ||||||
Royalty advances expected to be recouped within one year | 223 | 245 | ||||||
Deferred tax assets | 38 | 230 | ||||||
Other current assets | 86 | 90 | ||||||
Total current assets | 1,538 | 1,506 | ||||||
Royalty advances expected to be recouped after one year |
223 |
266 |
||||||
Investments | 8 | 10 | ||||||
Property, plant and equipment, net | 189 | 221 | ||||||
Goodwill | 978 | | ||||||
Intangible assets subject to amortization, net | 1,937 | 2,431 | ||||||
Intangible assets not subject to amortization | 100 | 24 | ||||||
Other assets | 117 | 26 | ||||||
Total assets | $ | 5,090 | $ | 4,484 | ||||
Liabilities and Shareholder's and Group Equity |
||||||||
Current liabilities: | ||||||||
Accounts payable | $ | 226 | $ | 285 | ||||
Accrued royalties | 1,003 | 959 | ||||||
Taxes and other withholdings, including $3 million due to Time Warner-affiliated companies in 2003 | 10 | 34 | ||||||
Current portion of long-term debt | 12 | | ||||||
Other current liabilities | 432 | 367 | ||||||
Total current liabilities | 1,683 | 1,645 | ||||||
Long-term debt |
1,828 |
120 |
||||||
Deferred tax liabilities, net | 265 | 952 | ||||||
Other noncurrent liabilities | 333 | 180 | ||||||
Due to WMG Parent Corp. | 3 | | ||||||
Total liabilities | 4,112 | 2,897 | ||||||
Shareholder's and group equity: |
||||||||
Common stock | | | ||||||
Additional paid-in capital(a) | 1,076 | | ||||||
Retained earnings (deficit) | (104 | ) | | |||||
Accumulated other comprehensive income, net | 6 | | ||||||
Group equity | | 2,347 | ||||||
Due from Time Warner-affiliated companies, net | | (760 | ) | |||||
Total shareholder's and group equity(a) | 978 | 1,587 | ||||||
Total liabilities and shareholder's and group equity |
$ |
5,090 |
$ |
4,484 |
||||
F-4
Warner Music Group
(Otherwise known as WMG Acquisition Corp.)
Consolidated and Combined Statements of Operations
|
|
Predecessor |
|||||||||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Successor |
||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
Years Ended November 30, |
||||||||||||||
|
Seven Months Ended September 30, 2004 |
Three Months Ended February 29, 2004 |
Ten Months Ended September 30, 2003 |
||||||||||||||
|
2003 |
2002 |
|||||||||||||||
|
(audited) |
(audited) |
(unaudited) |
(audited) |
(audited) |
||||||||||||
|
(in millions) |
||||||||||||||||
Revenues(b) | $ | 1,769 | $ | 779 | $ | 2,487 | $ | 3,376 | $ | 3,290 | |||||||
Costs and expenses: | |||||||||||||||||
Cost of revenues(a)(b) | (944 | ) | (415 | ) | (1,449 | ) | (1,940 | ) | (1,873 | ) | |||||||
Selling, general and administrative expenses(a)(b) | (677 | ) | (319 | ) | (995 | ) | (1,286 | ) | (1,282 | ) | |||||||
Impairment of goodwill and other intangible assets | | | | (1,019 | ) | (1,500 | ) | ||||||||||
Amortization of intangible assets | (104 | ) | (56 | ) | (201 | ) | (242 | ) | (182 | ) | |||||||
Loss on sale of physical distribution assets (Note 7) | | | (12 | ) | (12 | ) | | ||||||||||
Restructuring (costs) income, net(c) | (26 | ) | | (27 | ) | (35 | ) | 5 | |||||||||
Total costs and expenses | (1,751 | ) | (790 | ) | (2,684 | ) | (4,534 | ) | (4,832 | ) | |||||||
Operating income (loss) |
18 |
(11 |
) |
(197 |
) |
(1,158 |
) |
(1,542 |
) |
||||||||
Interest expense, net(b) |
(80 |
) |
(2 |
) |
(5 |
) |
(5 |
) |
(23 |
) |
|||||||
Net investment-related (losses) gains | | | (17 | ) | (26 | ) | 42 | ||||||||||
Equity in the losses of equity-method investees, net | (2 | ) | (2 | ) | (32 | ) | (41 | ) | (42 | ) | |||||||
Deal-related transaction and other costs | | | (7 | ) | (70 | ) | | ||||||||||
Loss on repayment of bridge loan | (6 | ) | | | | | |||||||||||
Other expense, net(b) | (4 | ) | | (10 | ) | (17 | ) | (5 | ) | ||||||||
Loss before income taxes and cumulative effect of accounting change | (74 | ) | (15 | ) | (268 | ) | (1,317 | ) | (1,570 | ) | |||||||
Income tax (expense) benefit | (30 | ) | (17 | ) | 29 | (36 | ) | 340 | |||||||||
Loss before cumulative effect of accounting change | (104 | ) | (32 | ) | (239 | ) | (1,353 | ) | (1,230 | ) | |||||||
Cumulative effect of accounting change | | | | | (4,796 | ) | |||||||||||
Net loss | $ | (104 | ) | $ | (32 | ) | $ | (239 | ) | $ | (1,353 | ) | $ | (6,026 | ) | ||
(a) Includes depreciation expense of: | $ | (36 | ) | $ | (16 | ) | $ | (71 | ) | $ | (86 | ) | $ | (67 | ) | ||
See accompanying notes.
F-5
|
|
Predecessor |
||||||||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Successor |
|
|
Years Ended November 30, |
||||||||||||
|
Three Months Ended February 29, 2004 |
Ten Months Ended September 30, 2003 |
||||||||||||||
|
Seven Months Ended September 30, 2004 |
|||||||||||||||
|
2003 |
2002 |
||||||||||||||
|
(audited) |
(audited) |
(unaudited) |
(audited) |
(audited) |
|||||||||||
|
(in millions) |
|||||||||||||||
Revenues | $ | | $ | 4 | $ | 35 | $ | 56 | $ | 60 | ||||||
Cost of revenues | | (2 | ) | (195 | ) | (239 | ) | (233 | ) | |||||||
Selling, general and administrative expenses | (10 | ) | (12 | ) | (114 | ) | (144 | ) | (143 | ) | ||||||
Interest expense, net | | 1 | 8 | 10 | (3 | ) | ||||||||||
Other expense, net | | | (10 | ) | (17 | ) | (4 | ) |
See accompanying notes.
F-6
Warner Music Group
(Otherwise known as WMG Acquisition Corp.)
Consolidated and Combined Statements of Cash Flows
|
|
Predecessor |
||||||||||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
|
Predecessor |
||||||||||||||||
|
Successor |
|||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
Years Ended November 30, |
|||||||||||||||
|
Seven Months Ended September 30, 2004 |
Three Months Ended February 29, 2004 |
Ten Months Ended September 30, 2003 |
|||||||||||||||
|
2003 |
2002 |
||||||||||||||||
|
(audited) |
(audited) |
(unaudited) |
(audited) |
(audited) |
|||||||||||||
|
|
(in millions) |
||||||||||||||||
Cash flows from operating activities | ||||||||||||||||||
Net loss | $ | (104 | ) | $ | (32 | ) | $ | (239 | ) | $ | (1,353 | ) | $ | (6,026 | ) | |||
Adjustments to reconcile net loss to net cash provided by (used in) operating activities: | ||||||||||||||||||
Cumulative effect of accounting change | | | | | 4,796 | |||||||||||||
Impairment of goodwill and other intangible assets | | | | 1,019 | 1,500 | |||||||||||||
Depreciation and amortization | 140 | 72 | 272 | 328 | 249 | |||||||||||||
Deferred taxes | 8 | (4 | ) | (79 | ) | (19 | ) | (394 | ) | |||||||||
Loss on sale of physical distribution assets | | | 12 | 12 | | |||||||||||||
Loss on repayment of bridge loan | 6 | | | | | |||||||||||||
Non-cash interest expense | 19 | 2 | 10 | 11 | 17 | |||||||||||||
Net investment-related losses (gains) | | | 17 | 26 | (42 | ) | ||||||||||||
Equity in the losses of equity-method investees, including distributions | 3 | 2 | 35 | 44 | 43 | |||||||||||||
Changes in operating assets and liabilities: | ||||||||||||||||||
Accounts receivable | (33 | ) | 387 | 275 | (121 | ) | 90 | |||||||||||
Inventories | (10 | ) | 6 | 24 | 12 | 17 | ||||||||||||
Royalty advances | 77 | (4 | ) | 38 | 111 | (30 | ) | |||||||||||
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities | (23 | ) | (109 | ) | (116 | ) | 169 | (174 | ) | |||||||||
Other balance sheet changes | 3 | 1 | 8 | 39 | (59 | ) | ||||||||||||
Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities(a) | 86 | 321 | 257 | 278 | (13 | ) | ||||||||||||
Cash flows from investing activities | ||||||||||||||||||
Acquisition of Old WMG(b) | (2,638 | ) | | | | | ||||||||||||
Other investments and acquisitions | (10 | ) | (2 | ) | (43 | ) | (52 | ) | (1,102 | ) | ||||||||
Investment proceeds | | 19 | | 38 | 825 | |||||||||||||
Capital expenditures | (15 | ) | (3 | ) | (30 | ) | (51 | ) | (88 | ) | ||||||||
Net cash (used in) provided by investing activities | (2,663 | ) | 14 | (73 | ) | (65 | ) | (365 | ) | |||||||||
Cash flows from financing activities | ||||||||||||||||||
Borrowings | 2,348 | | 114 | 114 | | |||||||||||||
Financing costs of borrowings | (99 | ) | | | | | ||||||||||||
Debt repayments | (631 | ) | (124 | ) | (101 | ) | (101 | ) | | |||||||||
Capital contributions(b) | 1,250 | 262 | 132 | 132 | | |||||||||||||
Increase in amounts due to WMG Parent Corp. | 3 | | | | | |||||||||||||
Decrease (increase) in amounts due from Time Warner-affiliated companies | | 194 | (293 | ) | (195 | ) | 416 | |||||||||||
Dividends and returns of capital paid | (210 | ) | (342 | ) | | (68 | ) | (31 | ) | |||||||||
Principal payments on capital lease | | | (3 | ) | (3 | ) | | |||||||||||
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities | 2,661 | (10 | ) | (151 | ) | (121 | ) | 385 | ||||||||||
Effect of foreign currency exchange rate changes on cash | | 2 | 6 | 11 | | |||||||||||||
Net increase in cash and equivalents | 84 | 327 | 39 | 103 | 7 | |||||||||||||
Cash and equivalents at beginning of period | 471 | 144 | 41 | 41 | 34 | |||||||||||||
Cash and equivalents at end of period | $ | 555 | $ | 471 | $ | 80 | $ | 144 | $ | 41 | ||||||||
F-7
Warner Music Group
(Otherwise known as WMG Acquisition Corp.)
Consolidated and Combined Statements of Shareholder's and Group Equity
|
Common Stock |
Additional Paid-in Capital |
Retained Earnings |
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) |
Group Equity |
Due from Time Warner-Affiliated Companies, net |
Total Shareholder's and Group Equity |
||||||||||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
(in millions) |
||||||||||||||||||||||
Predecessor | |||||||||||||||||||||||
Balance at November 30, 2001 | $ | | $ | | $ | | $ | | $ | 15,569 | $ | (981 | ) | $ | 14,588 | ||||||||
Comprehensive loss: | |||||||||||||||||||||||
Net loss(a) | | | | | (6,026 | ) | | (6,026 | ) | ||||||||||||||
Foreign currency translation adjustment | | | | | 17 | | 17 | ||||||||||||||||
Deferred losses on foreign exchange contracts | | | | | (8 | ) | | (8 | ) | ||||||||||||||
Total comprehensive loss | | | | | (6,017 | ) | | (6,017 | ) | ||||||||||||||
Reallocation of goodwill to other segments of Time Warner upon the initial adoption of FAS 142 | | | | | (5,942 | ) | | (5,942 | ) | ||||||||||||||
Tax benefits on stock options exercised | | | | | 2 | | 2 | ||||||||||||||||
Decrease in amounts due from Time Warner-affiliated companies, net | | | | | | 416 | 416 | ||||||||||||||||
Dividends | | | | | (31 | ) | | (31 | ) | ||||||||||||||
Other | | | | | (15 | ) | | (15 | ) | ||||||||||||||
Balance at November 30, 2002 | | | | | 3,566 | (565 | ) | 3,001 | |||||||||||||||
Comprehensive loss: | |||||||||||||||||||||||
Net loss(a) | | | | | (1,353 | ) | | (1,353 | ) | ||||||||||||||
Foreign currency translation adjustment | | | | | 68 | | 68 | ||||||||||||||||
Deferred gains on foreign exchange contracts | | | | | 4 | | 4 | ||||||||||||||||
Total comprehensive loss | | | | | (1,281 | ) | | (1,281 | ) | ||||||||||||||
Reduction in tax benefits on stock options exercised | | | | | (2 | ) | | (2 | ) | ||||||||||||||
Increase in amounts due from Time Warner-affiliated companies, net | | | | | | (195 | ) | (195 | ) | ||||||||||||||
Capital contributions | | | | | 132 | | 132 | ||||||||||||||||
Dividends | | | | | (68 | ) | | (68 | ) | ||||||||||||||
Balance at November 30, 2003 | | | | | 2,347 | (760 | ) | 1,587 | |||||||||||||||
Comprehensive loss: | |||||||||||||||||||||||
Net loss | | | | | (32 | ) | | (32 | ) | ||||||||||||||
Foreign currency translation adjustment | | | | | 21 | | 21 | ||||||||||||||||
Total comprehensive loss | | | | | (11 | ) | | (11 | ) | ||||||||||||||
Decrease in amounts due from Time Warner-affiliated companies, net | | | | | | 325 | 325 | ||||||||||||||||
Capital contributions | | | | | 262 | | 262 | ||||||||||||||||
Dividends | | | | | (969 | ) | 497 | (472 | ) | ||||||||||||||
Balance at February 29, 2004 | $ | | $ | | $ | | $ | | $ | 1,629 | $ | 62 | $ | 1,691 | |||||||||
See accompanying notes.
F-8
|
Common Stock |
Additional Paid-in Capital |
Retained Earnings |
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) |
Group Equity |
Due from Time Warner- Affiliated Companies, net |
Total Shareholder's and Group Equity |
|||||||||||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
(in millions) |
|||||||||||||||||||||||
Successor | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Balance at February 29, 2004Predecessor | $ | | $ | | $ | | $ | | $ | 1,629 | $ | 62 | $ | 1,691 | ||||||||||
Adjustments to record the Acquisition: | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Transfer of excluded net liabilities to Time Warner | | | | | 12 | (12 | ) | | ||||||||||||||||
Elimination of historical equity balances | | | | | (1,641 | ) | (50 | ) | (1,691 | ) | ||||||||||||||
Capital contribution to fund a portion of the purchase price of the Company | | 1,250 | | | | | 1,250 | |||||||||||||||||
Pushdown of portion of the purchase price of the Company funded by the issuance of warrants to Time Warner by the parent company of Warner Music Group | | 35 | | | | | 35 | |||||||||||||||||
Balance at March 1, 2004, adjusted to give effect to the Acquisition | | 1,285 | | | | | 1,285 | |||||||||||||||||
Comprehensive loss: | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net loss | (104 | ) | (104 | ) | ||||||||||||||||||||
Foreign currency translation adjustment | 10 | 10 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Deferred loses on derivative financial instruments | (4 | ) | (4 | ) | ||||||||||||||||||||
Total comprehensive loss | (104 | ) | 6 | (98 | ) | |||||||||||||||||||
Return of capital | | (210 | ) | | | | | (210 | ) | |||||||||||||||
Other | | 1 | | | | | 1 | |||||||||||||||||
Balance at September 30, 2004 | $ | | $ | 1,076 | $ | (104 | ) | $ | 6 | $ | | $ | | $ | 978 | |||||||||
See accompanying notes.
F-9
Warner Music Group
(Otherwise known as WMG Acquisition Corp.)
Notes to Consolidated and Combined Financial Statements
1. Description of Business
Warner Music Group (the "Company" or "New WMG"), otherwise known as WMG Acquisition Corp., is one of the world's major music companies. The Company is the successor to the interests of the recorded music and music publishing businesses of Time Warner Inc. ("Time Warner"). Such predecessor interests formerly owned by Time Warner are hereinafter referred to as "Old WMG" or the "Predecessor." Effective March 1, 2004, Old WMG was acquired from Time Warner by a private consortium of investors (the "Investor Group") for approximately $2.6 billion (the "Acquisition").
The Company classifies its business interests into two fundamental areas: recorded music and music publishing. A brief description of those operations is presented below.
Recorded Music Operations
The Company's recorded music operations consist of the discovery and development of artists and the related marketing and distribution of recorded music produced by such artists. In the United States, the Company's operations are conducted principally through its major record labelsWarner Bros. Records, The Atlantic Records Group, and Word Entertainment. Internationally, the Company's recorded music operations are conducted through its Warner Music International division ("WMI") in over 50 countries outside the United States through various subsidiaries, affiliates and non-affiliated licensees. The Company's current roster of recording artists includes, among others, Cher, Enya, Eric Clapton, Faith Hill, Josh Groban, Kid Rock, Linkin Park, Luis Miguel, Madonna, matchbox twenty, Metallica, Missy Elliott, Phil Collins and Red Hot Chili Peppers.
The Company's recorded music operations also include a catalog division called Warner Strategic Marketing ("WSM"). WSM specializes in marketing the Company's music catalog through compilations and reissuances of previously released music and video titles, as well as in the licensing of tracks to/from third parties for various uses, including film and television soundtracks.
The Company's principal recorded-music distribution operations include Warner-Elektra-Atlantic Corporation ("WEA Corp."), which primarily markets and distributes music products to retailers and wholesale distributors in the United States; a 90% interest in Alternative Distribution Alliance, an independent distribution company; various distribution centers and ventures operated internationally; and an 80% interest in Word Entertainment, whose distribution operations specialize in the distribution of music products in the Christian retail marketplace.
The principal recorded-music revenue sources to the Company are sales of CDs, digital downloads and other recorded music products, and license fees received for the ancillary uses of its recorded music catalog.
Music Publishing Operations
The Company's music publishing operations include Warner/Chappell Music, Inc. and its wholly owned subsidiaries, and certain other music-publishing affiliates of the Company. The Company owns or controls the rights to more than one million musical compositions, including numerous pop music hits, American standards, folk songs and motion picture and theatrical compositions. Its catalog includes works from a diverse range of artists and composers, including Barry Gibb, Cole Porter, Dido, Madonna, Moby, Nickelback, R.E.M. and Staind. The Company also administers the music of several television and motion picture companies, including Lucasfilm, Ltd. and Hallmark Entertainment.
The Company's music publishing operations include Warner Bros. Publications U.S. Inc. ("Warner Bros. Publications"), one of the world's largest publishers of printed music. Warner Bros. Publications
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markets publications throughout the world containing works of such artists as Shania Twain, The Grateful Dead and Led Zeppelin. However, in December 2004, the Company entered into an agreement to sell its printed music business to Alfred Publishing Co., Inc. ("Alfred Publishing"). The sale is expected to close during the first calender quarter of 2005 and is subject to customary closing conditions. See Note 7 for additional information.
The principal music-publishing revenue sources to the Company are royalties for the use of its compositions on CDs and DVDs, in television commercials, ring tones, music videos and the Internet; license fees received for the use of its musical compositions on radio, television, in motion pictures and in other public performances; and sales of published sheet music and songbooks.
2. Basis of Presentation
New Basis of Presentation
The accompanying consolidated and combined financial statements present separately the financial position, results of operations, cash flows and changes in equity for both the Company and its predecessor, Old WMG. As described in further detail in Note 5, Old WMG was acquired by the Investor Group effective as of March 1, 2004. In connection with the Acquisition, a new accounting basis was established for the Company as of the acquisition date based upon an allocation of the purchase price to the underlying net assets acquired. Financial information for the pre- and post-acquisition periods have been separated by a vertical line on the face of the consolidated and combined financial statements to highlight the fact that the financial information for such periods have been prepared under two different historical-cost bases of accounting.
Old Basis of Presentation
As previously described, the operations of the Company were under the control of Time Warner through the end of February 2004. In January 2001, historic Time Warner was acquired by America Online Inc. ("AOL") in a transaction hereinafter referred to as the "AOL Time Warner Merger". The AOL Time Warner Merger was accounted for under the purchase method of accounting. Under the purchase method of accounting, the basis of the historical net assets included in the accompanying combined financial statements was adjusted, effective as of January 1, 2001, to reflect an allocable portion of the purchase price relating to the AOL Time Warner Merger. See Note 6 for additional information.
For all periods prior to the closing of the Acquisition, the accompanying combined financial statements reflect all assets, liabilities, revenues, expenses and cash flows directly attributable to Old WMG. In addition, the accompanying combined financial statements include allocations of certain costs of Time Warner and Old WMG deemed reasonable by the Company's management, in order to present the results of operations, financial position, changes in group equity and cash flows of Old WMG on a stand-alone basis. The principal allocation methodologies are described below. The financial information included herein does not necessarily reflect the results of operations, financial position, changes in group equity and cash flows of Old WMG in the future or what would have been reflected had Old WMG been a separate, stand-alone entity during the periods presented. The income tax benefits and provisions, related tax payments and deferred tax balances have been prepared as if Old WMG operated as a stand-alone taxpayer for the periods presented.
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For all periods prior to the closing of the Acquisition, certain general and administrative costs incurred by Time Warner have been allocated to the combined financial statements of Old WMG, including pension and other benefit-related costs, insurance-related costs and other general and administrative costs. These cost allocations were determined based on a combination of factors, as appropriate, including Old WMG's pro rata share of the revenues under the management of Old WMG and other more directly attributable methods, such as claim experience for insurance costs and employee-related attributes for pension costs. The costs allocated to the Company are not necessarily indicative of the costs that would have been incurred if Old WMG had obtained such services independently, nor are they indicative of costs that will be charged or incurred in the future. However, management believes that such allocations are reasonable.
Fiscal Year
In 2004, in connection with the Acquisition, the Company changed its fiscal year-end to September 30th from November 30th. As such, financial information for 2004 is presented for a shortened ten-month transition period ended September 30, 2004. This financial information for 2004 also has been separated into two pre-acquisition and post-acquisition periods as a result of the change in accounting basis that occurred relating to the Acquisition. In order to enhance comparability, financial information for the ten-month period ended September 30, 2004 has been supplemented by the presentation of unaudited financial information for the ten-month period ended September 30, 2003. Based on how the Company's closing schedule occurred in 2003, the information for the ten-month period ended September 30, 2003 consists of 43 weeks, as compared to 44 weeks contained in the ten-month period ended September 30, 2004.
Basis of Consolidation and Combination
Prior to the closing of the Acquisition, the recorded music and music publishing operations of the Company were legally held by multiple subsidiaries and affiliates of Old WMG and Time Warner. As such, the accompanying financial statements present the combined accounts of such businesses for all periods prior to the Acquisition. After the closing of the Acquisition, New WMG acquired the stock or net assets of those predecessor businesses. Accordingly, the accompanying financial statements present the consolidated accounts of such businesses for all periods after the closing of the Acquisition. The consolidated accounts include 100% of the assets, liabilities, revenues, expenses, income, losses and cash flows of New WMG and all entities in which New WMG has a controlling voting interest and/or variable interest entities required to be consolidated in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States ("U.S. GAAP"). All significant intercompany balances and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation and combination.
Reclassifications
Certain reclassifications have been made to the prior periods' financial information in order to conform to the current period's presentation.
Amounts Due To/From Time Warner-Affiliated Companies
As described further in Note 19, prior to the closing of the Acquisition that was effective in March 2004, Old WMG had various commercial and financing arrangements with Time Warner and its affiliates. To illustrate, Old WMG distributed home video product for Time Warner's filmed
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entertainment division and Old WMG's financing requirements were funded by Time Warner. Given the intercompany nature of these and other arrangements, the related payables and receivables generally were not settled through periodic cash payments and receipts. Accordingly, except as noted below for income taxes, the net amounts due from all transactions with Time Warner-affiliated companies have been classified as a reduction of group equity in the accompanying combined balance sheet for all periods prior to March 2004.
With respect to income taxes for all periods prior to the closing of the Acquisition that was effective in March 2004, the income tax benefits and provisions, related tax payments and deferred tax balances have been prepared as if Old WMG operated as a stand-alone taxpayer. As such, while generally owed to Time Warner or its subsidiaries because Old WMG's taxable results were included in the consolidated income tax returns of Time Warner or its subsidiaries, all current and deferred tax liabilities for those periods have been classified as liabilities in the accompanying combined balance sheet as of November 30, 2003.
In connection with the Acquisition, substantially all of the intercompany receivables and payables between Old WMG and Time Warner and its affiliates were settled, and any receivables and payables that existed between the parties as of September 30, 2004 have been presented as third-party balances in the accompanying consolidated balance sheet. In addition, with respect to taxes, Timer Warner assumed all of the underlying tax obligations of Old WMG for all periods prior to the closing of the Acquisition. As such, all historical current and deferred tax assets and liabilities that existed as of the closing date of the Acquisition were transferred to Time Warner. Current and deferred tax assets and liabilities that existed as of September 30, 2004 are third-party in nature and have been presented as such in the accompanying consolidated balance sheet.
3. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies
Use of Estimates
The preparation of consolidated and combined financial statements in conformity with U.S. GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts reported in the financial statements and the accompanying notes. Actual results could differ from those estimates due to, among other factors, the risks inherent in the recorded music and music publishing businesses, including continuing industry-wide piracy. Estimates are used when accounting for certain items such as allowances for doubtful accounts and sales returns, depreciation and amortization, asset impairments (including royalty advances and intangible assets), contingencies and the value of stock-based compensation. In addition, significant estimates were used in accounting for the Acquisition under the purchase method of accounting, and prior to the Acquisition, in allocating certain costs to Old WMG in order to present Old WMG's operating results on a stand-alone basis (see Note 2).
Cash and Equivalents
The Company considers all highly liquid investments with maturities of three months or less when purchased to be cash equivalents.
Prior to the closing of the Acquisition, Old WMG had agreements with Time Warner, whereby all cash received or paid by Old WMG was included in, or funded by, clearing accounts or international cash pools within Time Warner's centralized cash management system. The average monthly balance of amounts due from Time Warner and its affiliates was $1.2 billion for the three-month period ended
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February 29, 2004, $778 million for the year ended November 30, 2003 and $791 million for the year ended November 30, 2002. Net amounts due from Time Warner and its affiliates are reflected as a reduction of group equity in the accompanying combined balance sheet of Old WMG as of November 30, 2003.
Foreign Currency Translation
The financial position and operating results of substantially all foreign operations are consolidated or combined using the local currency as the functional currency. Local currency assets and liabilities are translated at the rates of exchange on the balance sheet date, and local currency revenues and expenses are translated at average rates of exchange during the period. Resulting translation gains or losses are included in the accompanying consolidated and combined statement of shareholder's and group equity as a component of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss).
Derivative and Financial Instruments
Effective January 1, 2001, the Company adopted Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") Statement No. 133, as amended by FASB Statement No. 149, "Amendment of Statement 133 on Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities" ("FAS 133"). FAS 133 requires that all derivative instruments be recognized on the balance sheet at fair value. In addition, FAS 133 provides that, for derivative instruments that qualify for hedge accounting, changes in the fair value are either (a) offset against the change in fair value of the hedged assets, liabilities, or firm commitments through earnings or (b) recognized in equity until the hedged item is recognized in earnings, depending on whether the derivative is being used to hedge changes in fair value or cash flows. The ineffective portion of a derivative's change in fair value is immediately recognized in earnings.
The carrying value of the Company's financial instruments approximates fair value, except for certain differences relating to long-term, fixed-rate debt and other financial instruments that are not significant. The fair value of financial instruments is generally determined by reference to market values resulting from trading on a national securities exchange or an over-the-counter market. In cases where quoted market prices are not available, fair value is based on estimates using present value or other valuation techniques.
Revenues
Recorded Music
In accordance with industry practice and as is customary in many territories, certain products (such as CDs and cassettes) are sold to customers with the right to return unsold items. Revenues from such sales are recognized when the products are shipped based on gross sales less a provision for future estimated returns.
Music Publishing
Revenues are earned from the receipt of royalties relating to the licensing of rights in musical compositions, and for the sale of published sheet music and songbooks.
The receipt of royalties principally relates to amounts earned from the public performance of copyrighted material, the mechanical reproduction of copyrighted material on recorded media, and the
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use of copyrighted material in synchronization with visual images. Consistent with industry practice, music-publishing royalties generally are recognized as revenue when received.
Revenues from the sale of published sheet music and songbooks are recognized upon shipment of product.
Gross Versus Net Revenue Classification
In the normal course of business, the Company acts as an intermediary or agent with respect to certain payments received from third parties. For example, the Company distributes music product on behalf of third-party record labels. Pursuant to Emerging Issues Task Force ("EITF") No. 99-19, "Reporting Revenue Gross as a Principal versus Net as an Agent," such transactions are recorded on a "gross" or "net" basis depending on whether the Company is acting as the "principal" in the transaction or acting as an "agent" in the transaction. The Company serves as the principal in transactions in which it has substantial risks and rewards of ownership and, accordingly, revenues are recorded on a gross basis. For those transactions in which the Company does not have substantial risks and rewards of ownership, the Company is considered an agent in the transactions and, accordingly, revenues are recorded on a net basis.
To the extent revenues are recorded on a gross basis, any participations and royalties paid to third parties are recorded as expenses so that the net amount (gross revenues less expenses) flows through operating income. To the extent revenues are recorded on a net basis, revenues are reported based on the amounts received, less participations and royalties paid to third parties. Either way, the impact on operating income is the same whether the Company records the revenues on a gross or net basis.
Based on an evaluation of the individual terms of each contract and whether the Company is acting as principal or agent, the Company generally records revenues from the distribution of recorded music product on behalf of third-party record labels on a gross basis. However, revenues are recorded on a net basis for recorded music compilations distributed by other record companies where the Company has a right to participate in the profits.
Royalty Advances and Royalty Costs
In accordance with FASB Statement No. 50, "Financial Reporting in the Record and Music Industry," advances to artists, songwriters and co-publishers are capitalized as an asset when the current popularity and past performance of the artist, songwriter and co-publisher, as the case may be, provide a sound basis for estimating the probable future recoupment of such advances from earnings otherwise payable to them. Advances are recognized as an expense as subsequent royalties are earned by the artist, songwriter and co-publisher. Any portion of capitalized advances not deemed to be recoverable from future royalties is expensed during the period in which the loss becomes evident. All advances that do not meet the above capitalization criteria, otherwise known as unproven advances, are expensed as paid.
Royalties earned by artists, songwriters, co-publishers, other copyright holders and trade unions are recognized as an expense in the period in which the sale of the product takes place, less an adjustment for future estimated returns.
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Inventories
Inventories consist of CDs, cassettes and related music products, as well as published sheet music and songbooks. Inventories are stated at the lower of cost or estimated realizable value. Cost is determined using first-in, first-out ("FIFO") and average cost methods, which approximate cost under the FIFO method. Returned goods included in inventory are valued at estimated realizable value, but not in excess of cost.
Advertising
In accordance with American Institute of Certified Public Accountants ("AICPA") Statement of Position ("SOP") No. 93-7, "Reporting on Advertising Costs," advertising costs, including costs to produce music videos used for promotional purposes, are expensed as incurred. Advertising expense amounted to approximately $94 million for the seven months ended September 30, 2004, $53 million for the three months ended February 29, 2004, $202 million for the year ended November 30, 2003 and $209 million for the year ended November 30, 2002. Deferred advertising costs, which principally relate to advertisements that have not been exhibited or services that have not been received, were approximately $4 million and $6 million at September 30, 2004 and November 30, 2003, respectively.
Concentration of Credit Risk
In the recorded music business, the Company has 15 key customers that generate significant sales volume. For the ten months ended September 30, 2004, each of these customers contributed a range of 1% to 6% of all recorded-music revenues, and approximately 43% in the aggregate.
In the music publishing business, the Company collects a significant portion of its royalties from copyright collection societies around the world. Collection societies and associations generally are not-for-profit organizations that represent composers, songwriters and music publishers. These organizations seek to protect the rights of their members by licensing, collecting license fees and distributing royalties for the use of their works. Accordingly, the Company does not believe there is any significant collection risk from such societies.
Shipping and Handling
The costs associated with shipping goods to customers are recorded as cost of revenues. Shipping and handling charges billed to customers are included in revenues.
Investments
Investments in companies in which the Company has significant influence, but less than a controlling voting interest, are accounted for using the equity method. This is generally presumed to exist when the Company owns between 20% and 50% of the investee. However, as a matter of policy, if the Company had a greater than 50% ownership interest in an investee and the minority shareholders held certain rights that allowed them to participate in the day-to-day operations of the business, the Company would also use the equity method of accounting.
Under the equity method, only the Company's investment in and amounts due to and from the equity investee are included in the consolidated balance sheet; only the Company's share of the investee's earnings (losses) is included in the consolidated operating results; and only the dividends,
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cash distributions, loans or other cash received from the investee, additional cash investments, loan repayments or other cash paid to the investee are included in the consolidated cash flows.
Investments in companies in which the Company does not have a controlling interest or is unable to exert significant influence are accounted for at market value if the investments are publicly traded and there are no resale restrictions greater than one year ("available-for-sale investments"). If there are resale restrictions greater than one year, or if the investment is not publicly traded, then the investment is accounted for at cost.
Property, Plant and Equipment
Property, plant and equipment are recorded at historical cost. Depreciation is calculated using the straight-line method based upon the estimated useful lives of depreciable assets as follows: five to ten years for furniture and fixtures, periods of up to five years for computer equipment and periods of up to seven years for machinery and equipment. Buildings are depreciated over periods of up to fifty years. Leasehold improvements are depreciated over periods up to the life of the lease.
Accounting for Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets
In July 2001, the FASB issued Statement No. 141, "Business Combinations" and Statement No. 142, "Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets" ("FAS 142"). These standards changed the accounting for business combinations by, among other things, prohibiting the prospective use of pooling-of-interests accounting. In addition, FAS 142 required that goodwill, including the goodwill included in the carrying value of investments accounted for using the equity method of accounting, and certain other intangible assets deemed to have an indefinite useful life, cease amortization. The new rules also required that goodwill and certain intangible assets be assessed for impairment using fair value measurement techniques. The Company adopted the provisions of FAS 142 effective as of December 1, 2001. See Note 11 for further discussion on the adoption of FAS 142.
Internal-Use Software Development Costs
In accordance with AICPA SOP No. 98-1, "Accounting for the Costs of Computer Software Developed or Obtained for Internal Use", the Company capitalizes certain external and internal computer software costs incurred during the application development stage. The application development stage generally includes software design and configuration, coding, testing and installation activities. Training and maintenance costs are expensed as incurred, while upgrades and enhancements are capitalized if it is probable that such expenditures will result in additional functionality. Capitalized software costs are depreciated over the estimated useful life of the underlying project on a straight-line basis, generally not exceeding five years.
Valuation of Long-Lived Assets
The Company periodically reviews the carrying value of its long-lived assets, including property, plant and equipment, whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying value may not be recoverable. To the extent the estimated future cash inflows attributable to the asset, less estimated future cash outflows, are less than the carrying amount, an impairment loss is recognized in an amount equal to the difference between the carrying value of such asset and its fair value. Assets to be disposed of and for which there is a committed plan to dispose of the assets, whether through sale or abandonment, are reported at the lower of carrying value or fair value less costs to sell.
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Stock-Based Compensation
Post-Acquisition
Effective March 1, 2004, in connection with the Acquisition, the Company adopted the fair value recognition provisions of FASB Statement No. 123, "Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation" ("FAS 123") to account for all stock-based compensation plans adopted subsequent to the Acquisition. Under the fair value recognition provisions of FAS 123, stock-based compensation cost is measured at the grant date based on the fair value of the award and is recognized as expense over the vesting period.
Pre-Acquisition
Prior to the Acquisition, certain employees of Old WMG participated in various Time Warner stock option plans. In accordance with Accounting Principles Board Opinion No. 25, "Accounting for Stock Issued to Employees" ("APB 25") and related interpretations, compensation cost for stock options or other equity-based awards granted to employees was recognized in income based on the excess, if any, of the quoted market price of the stock at the grant date of the award over the amount an employee must pay to acquire the stock. Generally, the exercise price for stock options granted to employees equaled or exceeded the fair market value of Time Warner common stock at the date of grant, thereby resulting in no recognition of compensation expense by Old WMG. For any awards that generated compensation expense as defined under APB 25, Old WMG calculated the amount of compensation expense and recognized the expense over the vesting period of the award.
Had compensation cost for Time Warner's stock option plans been determined based on the fair value method set forth in FAS 123, Old WMG's net loss for all periods presented prior to the closing of the Acquisition would have been as follows:
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Net loss: | ||||||||||||||
As reported | $ | (32 | ) | $ | (239 | ) | $ | (1,353 | ) | $ | (6,026 | ) | ||
Pro forma | $ | (42 | ) | $ | (281 | ) | $ | (1,403 | ) | $ | (6,079 | ) | ||
See Note 17 for further information on employee stock-based compensation.
Income Taxes
Income taxes are provided using the asset and liability method presented by FASB Statement No. 109, "Accounting for Income Taxes" ("FAS 109"). Under this method, income taxes (i.e., deferred tax assets, deferred tax liabilities, taxes currently payable/refunds receivable and tax expense) are recorded based on amounts refundable or payable in the current year and include the results of any differences between U.S. GAAP and tax reporting. Deferred income taxes reflect the tax effect of net operating loss, capital loss and general business credit carryforwards and the net tax effects of temporary differences between the carrying amount of assets and liabilities for financial statements and income tax purposes, as determined under enacted tax laws and rates. Valuation allowances are established when management determines that it is more likely than not that some portion or all of the
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deferred tax asset will not be realized. The financial effect of changes in tax laws or rates is accounted for in the period of enactment.
Prior to the closing of the Acquisition, the taxable results of Old WMG were included in the consolidated U.S. federal, and various states, local and foreign income tax returns of Time Warner or its subsidiaries. Also, in certain state, local and foreign jurisdictions, Old WMG filed on a stand-alone basis. The income tax provision reflected in the combined statement of operations of Old WMG is presented as if Old WMG operated on a stand-alone basis, consistent with the liability method prescribed by FAS 109. The majority of the temporary differences for pre-Acquisition periods related to non-deductible reserves and adjustments to the carrying value of assets and liabilities established in the accounting for the AOL Time Warner Merger, as well as net operating loss carry forwards in 2002 only.
Comprehensive Income (Loss)
Comprehensive income (loss), which is reported in the accompanying consolidated and combined statements of shareholder's and group equity, consists of net income (loss) and other gains and losses affecting equity that, under US GAAP, are excluded from net income (loss). For the Company, the components of other comprehensive income (loss) primarily consist of foreign currency translation gains and losses and deferred gains and losses on interest-rate swap and foreign exchange contracts.
For all periods prior to the closing of the Acquisition, accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) has been presented as a component of group equity and has not been set forth separately due to the complex nature of preparing a combined set of financial statements for operations that were legally held by multiple subsidiaries of Old WMG and Time Warner. Such historical accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) balances were eliminated as part of the change in accounting basis that occurred effective on March 1, 2004, in connection with the closing of the Acquisition. The following summary set forth the components of other comprehensive income (loss), net of related taxes, that have been accumulated in shareholder's equity since March 1, 2004:
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Balance at March 1, 2004 | $ | | $ | | $ | | |||
Activity through September 30, 2004 | 10 | (4 | ) | 6 | |||||
Balance at September 30, 2004 | $ | 10 | $ | (4 | ) | $ | 6 | ||
4. New Accounting Standards
Variable Interest Entities
In January 2003, the FASB issued FASB Interpretation No. 46, "Consolidation of Variable Interest Entitiesan Interpretation of ARB No. 51" ("FIN 46"), which requires a variable interest entity ("VIE") to be consolidated if certain criteria are met.
FIN 46 provides that the primary beneficiary of a VIE is required to consolidate the VIE's operations. In determining if an entity is a VIE, FIN 46 requires one to evaluate whether the equity of the entity is sufficient to absorb its expected losses. The evaluation requires the consideration of qualitative factors and various assumptions, including expected future cash flows and funding needs.
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Even if the entity's equity is determined to be sufficient to absorb expected losses, the rules provide that in certain circumstances there needs to be a qualitative assessment as to whether "substantially all" the benefits of the entity are for the benefit of one of the variable interest holders. In such circumstances, the entity would be deemed a VIE.
The Company adopted the provisions of FIN 46 effective as of November 30, 2003. In particular, the Company consolidated four recorded music ventures, which were previously accounted for under the equity method of accounting. The operations of these ventures principally consist of the discovery and development of artists and related music products, which are distributed by the Company. As a result of consolidating these ventures, total assets and liabilities each increased by approximately $20 million as of November 30, 2003. As such, the application of FIN 46 did not have a material impact on the Company's financial statements.
Other Recently Issued Accounting Standards
Over the past two years, there have been many new accounting standards issued. The Company has adopted these standards in accordance with their prescribed effective dates. These new standards include, but are not limited to, (i) FASB Statement No. 143, "Accounting for Asset Retirement Obligations", (ii) FASB Statement No. 144, "Accounting for the Impairment or Disposal of Long-Lived Assets," (iii) FASB Statement No 146, "Accounting for Costs Associated with Exit or Disposal Activities", and (iv) FASB Statement No. 150, "Accounting for Certain Financial Instruments with Characteristics of both Liabilities and Equity." The adoption of these and other recently issued accounting standards did not have a material impact on the Company's financial statements.
5. The Acquisition
As previously described in Note 1, effective as of March 1, 2004, the Investor Group acquired Old WMG from Time Warner for approximately $2.6 billion. The initial consideration exchanged consisted of $2.560 billion of cash and $35 million of non-cash consideration in the form of warrants that give Time Warner the right, under certain conditions, to purchase up to 19.9% of the common stock in the parent company of New WMG that indirectly owns 100% of its stock. In addition, the Company incurred approximately $78 million of transaction costs in connection with the Acquisition.
Pursuant to the terms of the purchase agreement between the Investor Group and Time Warner, the purchase consideration is subject to certain adjustments, generally based on changes in the financial position of Old WMG between the date the purchase agreement was signed and the date the transaction closed. The parties currently are in discussions over the terms of final settlement. Such changes are not expected to be material; however, the purchase price reflected in the accompanying financial statements has been reduced by approximately $24 million on a preliminary basis to reflect a reimbursement by Time Warner to the Investor Group of a portion of the purchase consideration already agreed to by the parties.
The $2.638 billion cash portion of the purchase price, including transaction costs, was financed by a $1.250 billion initial capital investment by the Investor Group and aggregate borrowings of $1.388 billion. The Company also incurred $262 million of additional indebtedness to pay certain financing-related fees, as well as to fund future working capital requirements that included a portion of the anticipated costs to restructure the business. See Note 14 for a description of the Company's financing arrangements and Note 18 for a description of the aggregate $552 million return of capital paid to the Investor Group subsequent to the Acquisition.
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The Acquisition was accounted for by the purchase method of accounting for business combinations. Under the purchase method of accounting, the acquisition cost of $2.649 billion, including $78 million of transaction costs and the $24 million reduction in the purchase price described above, was preliminarily allocated to the net assets acquired in proportion to estimates of their respective fair values. The excess of the purchase price over the estimated fair value of the net assets acquired was recorded as goodwill.
The accompanying consolidated financial statements include the following preliminary allocation of the purchase price to the net assets acquired: recorded music catalog$1.216 billion; music publishing copyrights$808 million; trademarks$110 million; goodwill$978 million; other current and noncurrent assets$1.852 billion; net deferred tax liabilities$219 million; acquisition-related restructuring liabilities$307 million; and other current and noncurrent liabilities$1.789 billion.
At this time, most of the valuations and other studies needed to provide a final basis for estimating the fair value of the net assets acquired have been completed. However, the Company is still waiting for certain information in order to finalize the purchase price allocation, including a final settlement of terms with Time Warner. It is not expected that the final allocation of the purchase price to the net assets acquired will differ materially from that reflected in the accompanying financial statements.
Pro Forma Financial Information
The following unaudited pro forma financial information presents the operating results of the Company as if each of (i) the Acquisition and original financing, (ii) the April 2004 refinancing (as described under Note 14), and (iii) the transactions with Cinram International Inc. with respect to manufacturing, packaging and physical distribution services (as described under Note 7), had occurred at the beginning of each period presented.
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Pro Forma |
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Ten Months Ended September 30, 2004 |
Twelve Months Ended September 30, 2004 |
Year Ended November 30, 2003 |
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(in millions) |
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Revenue | $ | 2,548 | $ | 3,436 | $ | 3,361 | ||||
Impairment of goodwill and other intangible assets | | (1,019 | ) | (1,019 | ) | |||||
Depreciation and amortization | (201 | ) | (245 | ) | (257 | ) | ||||
Operating income (loss) | 16 | (929 | ) | (1,017 | ) | |||||
Net loss | (149 | ) | (848 | ) | (894 | ) |
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2003 Deal-Related and Other Transaction Costs
In connection with the Acquisition and the prior pursuit by Time Warner and Old WMG of other strategic ventures or dispositions involving Old WMG's businesses in 2003 that did not occur, Old WMG incurred approximately $70 million of costs, as follows:
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Year Ended November 30, 2003 |
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Transaction costs, primarily legal, accounting and investment banking fees | $ | 30 | |
Loss on executive contractual obligations | 25 | ||
Loss on pension plan curtailment | 15 | ||
$ | 70 | ||
As part of the Acquisition, the Investor Group and Time Warner agreed that Time Warner would retain its obligations to all employees of Old WMG covered under Time Warner's U.S. pension plans; however, employees of Old WMG would no longer be able to earn additional benefits for future services. Accordingly, Old WMG recognized a $15 million loss in 2003 in connection with the probable pension curtailment that ultimately occurred upon the closing of the Acquisition. In addition, Old WMG recorded a $25 million loss in 2003 relating to certain executive contractual obligations that were triggered upon the closing of the Acquisition.
6. AOL Time Warner Merger
As previously described in Note 2, the operations of Old WMG were under the control of Time Warner through the end of February 2004. In January 2001, historic Time Warner was acquired by AOL. The AOL Time Warner Merger was accounted for as an acquisition using the purchase method of accounting for business combinations. Under the purchase method of accounting, the acquisition cost of approximately $147 billion, including transaction costs, was allocated to historic Time Warner's underlying net assets, including its interests in Old WMG, based on their respective estimated fair values. The excess of the purchase price over the fair value of the net assets acquired was recorded as goodwill.
The principal effects from the allocation of the AOL Time Warner acquisition cost to Old WMG was to recognize the following assets and liabilities: goodwill$12 billion; recorded music catalog$2 billion; brands and trademarks$1.7 billion; music publishing copyrights$1.0 billion; net deferred tax liabilities$1.5 billion; and merger-related restructuring liabilities$478 million.
In addition, in connection with Old WMG's initial adoption of FAS 142 effective as of December 1, 2001, a portion of the cost of the AOL Time Warner Merger previously allocated to Old WMG's combined financial statements was reallocated to other segments of Time Warner. The reallocation resulted in a reduction of goodwill of approximately $5.9 billion; goodwill was further reduced by a $4.8 billion charge in connection with the initial adoption of FAS 142 during the first quarter of 2002, a $646 million impairment charge recorded during the fourth quarter of 2002 and a $5 million impairment charge during the fourth quarter of 2003. The carrying value of brands and trademarks was also reduced by an impairment charge of approximately $766 million recorded during the fourth quarter of 2003 and $853 million recorded during the fourth quarter of 2002. Finally, the carrying values of Old WMG's recorded music catalog and other intangible assets were reduced by an impairment charge of approximately $248 million during the fourth quarter of 2003. See Note 11 for further information.
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7. Other Acquisitions and Dispositions
Sale of Music Manufacturing
In October 2003, Time Warner completed its sale of the DVD and CD manufacturing, printing, packaging, physical distribution and merchandising businesses formerly managed by Old WMG for $1.05 billion in cash to Cinram International Inc. ("Cinram"). The sale included the following businesses: WEA Manufacturing Inc., Warner Music Manufacturing Europe GmbH, Ivy Hill Corporation, Giant Merchandising and the physical distribution operations of WEA Corp.
In addition, Time Warner and Old WMG entered into exclusive, long-term agreements for Cinram to provide manufacturing, printing, packaging and physical distribution of Time Warner's and the Company's DVDs and CDs in North America and Europe at fair market value-based rates.
As previously noted, the physical distribution operations of WEA Corp., which are included in the accompanying financial statements, were included in the sale. Old WMG recognized a $12 million pretax loss in 2003 in connection with the sale, which has been reflected as a component of operating loss in the accompanying statement of operations. For the years ended November 30, 2003 and 2002, Old WMG included in its accompanying statement of operations approximately $15 million of revenues in each year; approximately $11 million and $13 million of operating losses, respectively; approximately $4 million and $5 million of operating losses before depreciation and amortization expense, respectively; and an approximate $7 million and $8 million net loss, respectively, related to the physical distribution operations of WEA Corp.
Acquisition of Certain Minority Interests in Maverick Recording Company
As of September 30, 2004, the Company had a 50% interest in Maverick Recording Company ("Maverick"). In November 2004, the Company acquired an additional 30% interest in Maverick from its existing partner for approximately $17 million and certain amounts previously owed by such partner to the Company. The transaction will be accounted for under the purchase method of accounting during the first quarter of fiscal 2005. The purchase price will be allocated to the underlying net assets of Maverick in proportion to their estimated fair value, principally artist contracts and recorded music catalog. As part of the transaction, the Company and the remaining partner in Maverick entered into an agreement pursuant to which either party can elect to have the Company purchase the remaining 20% interest in Maverick that it does not own by December 2007.
Sale of Warner Bros. Publications
In December 2004, the Company entered into an agreement to sell Warner Bros. Publications, which conducts the Company's printed music operations, to Alfred Publishing. As part of the transaction, the Company agreed to license the right to use its music publishing copyrights in the exploitation of printed sheet music and songbooks for a twenty year period of time. No gain or loss is expected to be recognized on the transaction as the historical book basis of the net assets being sold was adjusted to fair value in connection with the accounting for the Acquisition. The sale is expected to close during the first calendar quarter of 2005 and is subject to customary closing conditions.
The sale is not expected to have a material effect on the future operating results and financial condition of the Company. For the ten months ended September 30, 2004, and each of the years ended November 30, 2003 and 2002, the operations being sold generated revenues of approximately
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$36 million, $56 million and $54 million, respectively; operating (loss) income of approximately $(7) million, $1 million and $3 million, respectively; operating (loss) income before depreciation and amortization expense of $(7) million, $2 million and $4 million, respectively; and net (loss) income of approximately $(8) million, $(2) million and $1 million, respectively.
Word Entertainment Acquisition and Related Transactions
In January 2002, Old WMG purchased Word Entertainment ("Word") from Gaylord Entertainment Company for approximately $85 million in cash, including transaction costs. Word produces and distributes Christian music products, including recorded music, print and video products. The acquisition was accounted for using the purchase method of accounting for business combinations. Under the purchase method of accounting, the acquisition cost of approximately $85 million was allocated to Word's underlying net assets based on their respective fair values. The excess of the purchase price over the estimated fair values of the net assets acquired was recorded as goodwill.
The allocation of the Word purchase price was as follows: recorded music catalog $20 million; music publishing copyrights $10 million; goodwill $30 million; other assets $42 million; and other liabilities $17 million.
In addition, during the third quarter of 2002, Old WMG exchanged 20% of its interest in Word for certain rights associated with Curb Records ("Curb"), a large independent Nashville-based record label (the "Word/Curb Transaction"). In particular, among other commercial arrangements, Old WMG acquired (i) a right to match an offer for the potential sale of Curb at any time through December 2008 (the "Curb Matching Right"), (ii) a covenant-not-to-compete in the Christian-music business, whereby Curb cannot sign any artist in the Christian-music genre through December 2008 (the "Curb Covenant") and (iii) a six-year extension of its right to provide manufacturing and distribution services to Curb through December 2008. Old WMG allocated the $9 million value associated with these rights in proportion to their underlying fair market values. Of such amount, $6 million has been ascribed to the Curb Matching Right and the Curb Covenant, which are both reflected as intangible assets subject to amortization in the accompanying balance sheet. The remaining $3 million of value was ascribed to the manufacturing and distribution service agreement. No gain or loss was recognized on the transaction.
8. Investments
The Company's investments consist of:
|
September 30, 2004 |
November 30, 2003 |
||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
(in millions) |
|||||
Equity-method investments | $ | 8 | $ | 2 | ||
Cost-method investments | | 8 | ||||
$ | 8 | $ | 10 | |||
As of November 30, 2003, investments included Columbia House (50% owned prior to the sale of 85% of such interest in June 2002), Music Choice Europe (24% owned), Music Choice U.S. (11%
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owned), Telstar (20% owned), MusicNet (22% owned) and Deston Songs (50% owned). However, in connection with the Acquisition, Old WMG's interests in Columbia House, Music Choice Europe, Music Choice U.S. and MusicNet were transferred to Time Warner. Accordingly, the only significant investments held at September 30, 2004 related to the Company's continuing interest in Deston Songs and a new investment made in 2004 in Royalty Services, L.P. (25% owned) to develop a shared royalty system platform with Universal Music Group, Exigen Group and Lightspeed Venture Partners. Such investments are not material to the Company's overall financial position or operating results.
Sale of Columbia House Interest
In June 2002, Old WMG and Sony Corporation of America ("Sony") each sold 85% of their respective 50% interests in the Columbia House Company Partnerships ("Columbia House") to Blackstone Capital Partners III LP ("Blackstone"), an affiliate of The Blackstone Group, a private investment bank. Under the terms of the sale agreement, Old WMG received proceeds of approximately $125 million in cash and a subordinated note receivable from Columbia House Holdings, Inc., a majority owned subsidiary of Blackstone, with a face amount of approximately $35 million. The sale resulted in Old WMG recognizing a pre-tax gain of $60 million, which is included in net investment- related gains (losses) in the accompanying statement of operations for the year ended November 30, 2002. In addition, Old WMG deferred an approximate $28 million gain on the sale. The deferred gain primarily related to the estimated fair value of the portion of the proceeds received as a note receivable, which will be deferred until such time as the realization of such note becomes more fully assured. As a result of the sale, Old WMG's interest in Columbia House was reduced to 7.5% and the investment began to be accounted for under the cost method of accounting. As part of the transaction, the Company agreed to continue to license music product to Columbia House at market rates for a five-year period.
In addition, prior to the closing of the transaction, Old WMG and Sony recapitalized certain obligations of Columbia House owed to them. In connection with this recapitalization, Old WMG made capital contributions of approximately $930 million and Old WMG and its affiliates received a comparable amount of proceeds relating to the repayment of such obligations. Accordingly, the accompanying statement of cash flows of Old WMG for the year ended November 30, 2002 reflects the effects of the recapitalization, consisting of an increase in investment spending of approximately $930 million, which was offset in part by an increase in investment proceeds of approximately $700 million. The remaining proceeds were received by affiliates of Old WMG that were not a part of the combined reporting group and, as such, those proceeds are not reflected in the accompanying combined statement of cash flows of Old WMG for the year ended November 30, 2002.
As previously noted, in connected with the Acquisition, Old WMG's interest in Columbia House was transferred to Time Warner during 2004.
Net Investment-Related Gains
There were no significant investment-related gains or losses recognized in either the seven-month period ended September 30, 2004 or the three-month period ended February 29, 2004.
For the year ended November 30, 2003, Old WMG recognized $26 million of net investment-related losses, principally to reduce the carrying value of certain investments, including Old WMG's
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interest in Telstar. Of such amount, approximately $17 million of net investment-related losses were recognized by Old WMG in the ten-month period ended September 30, 2003.
For the year ended November 30, 2002, Old WMG recognized $42 million of net investment-related gains. Such amount consists of (i) a $60 million gain from the sale of Columbia House in 2002, as disclosed previously, offset in part by (ii) an $18 million impairment loss in 2002 to reduce the carrying value of certain investments, principally Old WMG's interests in Strictly Rhythm Records and Music Choice Europe.
9. Inventories
Inventories consist of the following:
|
September 30, 2004 |
November 30, 2003 |
|||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
(in millions) |
||||||
Compact discs, cassettes and other music-related products | $ | 79 | $ | 83 | |||
Published sheet music and song books | 23 | 19 | |||||
102 | 102 | ||||||
Less reserve for obsolescence | (37 | ) | (41 | ) | |||
$ | 65 | $ | 61 | ||||
10. Property, Plant and Equipment
Property, plant and equipment consist of the following:
|
September 30, 2004 |
November 30, 2003 |
|||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
(in millions) |
||||||
Land | $ | 19 | $ | 18 | |||
Buildings and improvements | 109 | 108 | |||||
Furniture and fixtures | 16 | 31 | |||||
Computer hardware and software | 78 | 192 | |||||
Machinery and equipment | 3 | 3 | |||||
225 | 352 | ||||||
Less accumulated depreciation | (36 | ) | (131 | ) | |||
$ | 189 | $ | 221 | ||||
11. Goodwill and Intangible Assets
Impairment Charges
As discussed in Note 3, effective as of December l, 2001, Old WMG adopted FAS 142, which requires companies to cease amortizing goodwill and certain intangible assets with an indefinite useful life. Instead, FAS 142 requires that goodwill and intangible assets deemed to have an indefinite useful
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life be reviewed for impairment upon adoption of FAS 142 and annually thereafter. Prior to the adoption of FAS 142, Old WMG amortized goodwill over a twenty-year period.
Upon the adoption of FAS 142 in the first quarter of fiscal 2002, Old WMG recorded a non-cash charge of approximately $4.8 billion to reduce the carrying value of goodwill arising from the AOL Time Warner Merger. Such charge is non-operational in nature and is reflected as a cumulative effect of a change in accounting principle in the accompanying statement of operations. The amount of the impairment primarily reflected the decline in Time Warner's stock price since the AOL Time Warner Merger was announced and valued for accounting purposes in January 2000, as well as declines in the valuation of music-related businesses since January 2001 due, largely, to the industry-wide effects of piracy.
FAS 142 also required that goodwill deemed to be related to an entity as a whole be assigned to all of Time Warner's reporting units instead of only to the businesses of the company acquired, as was the case under existing practice. As a result, approximately $5.9 billion of goodwill generated in the AOL Time Warner Merger that had been previously allocated to Old WMG's financial statements was reallocated to other segments of Time Warner.
During the fourth quarter of 2002, Old WMG performed its annual impairment review for goodwill and other intangible assets and recorded an additional charge of $1.5 billion, which is recorded as a component of operating loss in the accompanying statement of operations. The charge consisted of a reduction in the carrying value of goodwill by approximately $646 million and a reduction in the carrying value of brands and trademarks by approximately $854 million. The amount of the impairment primarily reflected the decline in the valuation of music-related businesses due, largely, to the industry-wide effects of piracy.
During the fourth quarter of 2003, in connection with Time Warner's agreement to sell Old WMG as described more fully in Note 5, Old WMG recorded an additional $1.019 billion impairment charge. The charge was necessary to reduce the carrying value of Old WMG's intangible assets to fair value, based on the consideration agreed to be exchanged in the transaction. The impairment charge is classified as a component of operating loss in the accompanying statement of operations. The charge consisted of a reduction in the carrying value of goodwill by $5 million, brands and trademarks by $766 million, recorded music catalog by $208 million and other intangible assets by $40 million.
All of the impairment charges mentioned above were non-cash in nature and did not affect Old WMG's liquidity.
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Goodwill
The following analysis details the changes in goodwill for each reportable segment during the ten months ended September 30, 2004 and the year ended November 30, 2003:
|
Recorded Music |
Music Publishing |
Total |
|||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
(in millions) |
|||||||||
Balance at November 30, 2002 | $ | | $ | | $ | | ||||
Acquisitionrelated activity | 5 | | 5 | |||||||
Impairment | (5 | ) | | (5 | ) | |||||
Balance at November 30, 2003 | | | | |||||||
Acquisition of Old WMG | 395 | 583 | 978 | |||||||
Balance at September 30, 2004 | $ | 395 | $ | 583 | $ | 978 | ||||
Other Intangible Assets
Other intangible assets consist of the following:
|
September 30, 2004 |
November 30, 2003 |
||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
(in millions) |
|||||||
Intangible assets subject to amortization: | ||||||||
Record music catalog | $ | 1,216 | $ | 1,906 | ||||
Music publishing copyrights | 811 | 1,075 | ||||||
Trademarks | 10 | | ||||||
Other intangible assets | 4 | 6 | ||||||
2,041 | 2,987 | |||||||
Accumulated amortization | (104 | ) | (556 | ) | ||||
Total net intangible assets subject to amortization | 1,937 | 2,431 | ||||||
Intangible assets not subject to amortization: | ||||||||
Trademarks and brands | 100 | 24 | ||||||
Total net other intangible assets | $ | 2,037 | $ | 2,455 | ||||
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Amortization
Based on the amount of intangible assets subject to amortization at the end of September 2004, the expected amortization for each of the next five fiscal years is as follows:
|
Years Ended September 30, |
||
---|---|---|---|
|
(in millions) |
||
2005 | $ | 178 | |
2006 | 178 | ||
2007 | 178 | ||
2008 | 178 | ||
2009 | 178 | ||
Thereafter | 1,047 | ||
$ | 1,937 | ||
The expected amortization expense above reflects estimated useful lives assigned to the Company's identifiable, finite-lived intangible assets established in the accounting for the Acquisition effective as of March 1, 2004 as follows: ten years for recorded music catalog, fifteen years for music publishing copyrights and fifteen years for trademarks.
Amortization expense included in Old WMG's statement of operations for each of the three months ended February 29, 2004 and the years ended November 30, 2003 and 2002 was based on different estimated useful lives assigned to Old WMG's identifiable, finite-lived intangible assets. In particular, for the year ended November 30, 2002 estimated useful lives of twenty years were assigned to both of Old WMG's recorded music catalog and music publishing copyrights. In addition, for each of the three months ended February 29, 2004 and the year ended November 30, 2003 estimated useful lives of fifteen years were assigned to both of Old WMG's recorded music catalog and music publishing copyrights. The change in estimated useful lives from 2002 to 2003 was implemented in connection with Old WMG's annual impairment review of intangible assets at the end of 2002, under which it was determined that the estimated useful lives were shorter than originally anticipated principally as a result of the industry-wide effects of music piracy. See Note 5 for a discussion of the pro forma effects of the Acquisition on the historical operating results of Old WMG, including the effects from the aforementioned changes in estimated useful lives.
12. Restructuring Costs
The Company and Old WMG have recorded restructuring costs over the past few years relating to the Acquisition in 2004, the AOL Time Warner Merger in 2001 and various other non-acquisition related restructuring initiatives. In accordance with U.S. GAAP, restructuring costs incurred in connection with the Acquisition and the AOL Time Warner Merger were capitalized as a portion of the purchase price paid. However, all costs for non-acquisition related restructuring initiatives were expensed either in the period they were incurred or committed to, in accordance with U.S. GAAP. A description of the nature of the restructuring activities and related costs for each of the Acquisition, the AOL Time Warner Merger and other non-acquisition related restructurings follows.
F-29
Acquisition-Related Restructuring Costs
In connection with the Acquisition that was effective as of March 1, 2004, the Company reviewed its operations and implemented several plans to restructure its operations. As part of these restructuring plans, the Company recorded a restructuring liability of approximately $307 million during 2004. This restructuring liability included costs to exit and consolidate certain activities of the Company, as well as costs to terminate employees and certain artist, songwriters and co-publisher contracts. Such liabilities were recognized as part of the cost of the Acquisition.
Of the total $307 million restructuring costs recorded by the Company, approximately $164 million related to work-force reductions, including employee termination benefits and relocation costs; approximately $75 million related to costs to terminate certain artist, songwriters and co-publisher contracts; and the balance of approximately $68 million related to other anticipated costs to exit certain leased facilities and operations, such as international distribution operations. The number of employees identified to be involuntarily terminated approximated 1,600.
As of September 30, 2004, the Company had approximately $179 million of Acquisition-related restructuring costs recorded in its balance sheet. These liabilities represent estimates of future obligations for all restructuring activities that had been implemented, as well as for all restructuring activities that had been committed to by management but have yet to occur. The outstanding balance of these liabilities primarily relates to extended payment terms for severance obligations and long-term lease obligations for vacated facilities. These remaining obligations are expected to be settled by 2019.
Selected information relating to the Acquisition-related restructuring plans is as follows:
|
Employee Terminations |
Other Exit Costs |
Total |
|||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
(in millions) |
|||||||||
Liability as of November 30, 2003 | $ | | $ | $ | ||||||
Additions in 2004 | 164 | 143 | 307 | |||||||
Cash paid in 2004 | (92 | ) | (13 | ) | (105 | ) | ||||
Non-cash reductions in 2004(a) | (1 | ) | (22 | ) | (23 | ) | ||||
Liability as of September 30, 2004 | $ | 71 | $ | 108 | $ | 179 | ||||
In addition, in connection with the Acquisition, the Company approved a cost-savings incentive compensation plan during 2004 in order to incentivize management to implement the aforementioned restructuring plans and reduce operating costs. Accordingly, the Company has recognized approximately $26 million of one-time costs in its statement of operations for the seven months ended September 30, 2004, principally related to this cost-savings incentive plan. See Note 13 for further discussion.
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AOL Time Warner Merger-Related Restructuring Costs
In connection with the AOL Time Warner Merger, Old WMG reviewed its operations and implemented several plans to restructure its operations. As part of these restructuring plans, Old WMG recorded a restructuring liability of approximately $478 million during 2001. This restructuring liability included costs to exit and consolidate certain activities of Old WMG, as well as costs to terminate employees and certain artist contracts. Such liabilities were recognized as part of the AOL Time Warner Merger and were allocated to Old WMG's financial statements as part of the AOL Time Warner Merger acquisition cost. See Note 6.
Of the total initial restructuring costs recorded by Old WMG, approximately $278 million related to work-force reductions, including employee termination benefits and relocation costs; approximately $100 million related to costs to terminate certain artist contracts; and the balance of approximately $100 million primarily related to other anticipated costs to exit certain leased facilities and operations, such as certain international distribution and music-publishing print operations. The number of employees identified to be involuntarily terminated approximated 2,600. Old WMG reversed approximately $91 million of these merger-related restructuring liabilities in 2002, and recognized a corresponding reduction in goodwill, as either the planned action did not ultimately occur or actual exit costs were less than originally estimated. As of November 30, 2003, there was approximately $70 million of AOL Time Warner Merger-related restructuring costs that had yet to be paid, principally relating to severance obligations and long-term lease obligations for vacated facilities. As part of the Acquisition, Time Warner agreed to assume all unpaid severance obligations from Old WMG and, accordingly, all such liabilities were transferred to Time Warner. In addition, in connection with the Acquisition, the Company reevaluated its global facility requirements and further consolidated its real estate holdings. As part of this reevaluation, the Company remeasured the fair value of its long-term lease obligations for vacated facilities, eliminated the pre-existing $25 million book value of the lease liabilities for vacated facilities and recorded the net impact as an addition to goodwill. See prior discussion of Acquisition-related restructuring costs.
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Selected information relating to the AOL Time Warner Merger-related restructuring plans is as follows:
|
Employee Terminations |
Other Exit Costs |
Total |
||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
(in millions) |
||||||||||
Liability as of November 30, 2000 | $ | | $ | $ | |||||||
Additions in 2001 | 278 | 200 | 478 | ||||||||
Cash paid in 2001 | (55 | ) | (69 | ) | (124 | ) | |||||
Non-cash reductions in 2001(a) | (43 | ) | | (43 | ) | ||||||
Liability as of November 30, 2001 | 180 | 131 | 311 | ||||||||
Cash paid in 2002 | (77 | ) | (42 | ) | (119 | ) | |||||
Non-cash reductions in 2002(b) | (28 | ) | (57 | ) | (85 | ) | |||||
Liability as of November 30, 2002 | 75 | 32 | 107 | ||||||||
Cash paid in 2003 | (30 | ) | (6 | ) | (36 | ) | |||||
Non-cash activity in 2003(c) | | (1 | ) | (1 | ) | ||||||
Liability as of November 30, 2003 | 45 | 25 | 70 | ||||||||
2004 activity, primarily adjustments relating to the Acquisition | (45 | ) | (25 | ) | (70 | ) | |||||
Liability as of September 30, 2004 | $ | | $ | | $ | | |||||
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Other Non-Acquisition Related Restructuring Costs
In addition to the costs of restructurings associated with acquisition and merger activities, Old WMG has also recognized restructuring costs that are unrelated to business combinations and are expensed as incurred.
Most of these non-acquisition related restructuring initiatives were implemented in 2003. However, during 2002, Old WMG recognized approximately $5 million of income on a net basis related to its restructuring activities. This amount related to the reversal in 2002 of a $12 million restructuring liability that was recognized in a prior period as a result of either the planned action not ultimately occurring or actual costs being less than originally estimated. The $12 million of income was partially offset by other non-acquisition related restructuring charges in 2002 of $7 million relating to various restructuring activities that were individually insignificant and not considered to be material to the accompanying financial statements.
However, during 2003, in a continuing effort to reduce costs, Old WMG implemented a series of more significant restructuring activities. In particular, Old WMG restructured its domestic distribution operations, outsourced its Canadian distribution operations, and continued to reduce its worldwide headcount to adjust to changing economic conditions in various markets. In connection with these initiatives, Old WMG recognized restructuring charges of approximately $35 million in 2003. Of this amount, approximately $22 million related to work-force reductions, including employee termination benefits and relocation costs, and approximately $13 million related to other anticipated costs to exit certain facilities. The number of employees that were involuntarily terminated approximated 365. All restructuring activities were completed by the end of 2003.
As of November 30, 2003, there was approximately $10 million of non-acquisition related restructuring costs that had yet to be paid, principally relating to severance obligations and long-term lease obligations for vacated facilities. As previously noted, in connection with the Acquisition, Time Warner agreed to assume all unpaid severance obligations from Old WMG. Accordingly, all such liabilities were transferred to Time Warner effective as of March 1, 2004. In addition, in connection with the Acquisition, the Company reevaluated its global facility requirements and further consolidated its real estate holdings. As part of this reevaluation, the Company remeasured the fair value of its long-term lease obligations for vacated facilities, eliminated the pre-existing $2 million book value of the lease obligations for vacated facilities and recorded the net impact as an addition to goodwill. See prior discussion of Acquisition-related restructuring costs.
F-33
The restructuring costs related to each of the Company's business segments, as well as corporate-level employees. Selected information related to the 2003 restructuring plans by business segment is as follows:
Employee Terminations
|
Recorded Music |
Music Publishing |
Corporate |
Total |
|||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
(in millions) |
||||||||||||
Additions in 2003 | $ | 18 | $ | 3 | $ | 1 | $ | 22 | |||||
Cash paid in 2003 | (13 | ) | (1 | ) | | (14 | ) | ||||||
Liability as of November 30, 2003 | 5 | 2 | 1 | 8 | |||||||||
2004 activity, primarily adjustments relating to the Acquisition | (5 | ) | (2 | ) | (1 | ) | (8 | ) | |||||
Liability as of September 30, 2004 | $ | | $ | | | $ | | ||||||
Other Exit Costs
|
Recorded Music |
Music Publishing |
Corporate |
Total |
|||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
(in millions) |
||||||||||||
Additions in 2003 | $ | 13 | $ | | $ | | $ | 13 | |||||
Cash paid in 2003 | (10 | ) | | | (10 | ) | |||||||
Non-cash reductions in 2003 | (1 | ) | | | (1 | ) | |||||||
Liability as of November 30, 2003 | 2 | | | 2 | |||||||||
2004 activity, primarily adjustments relating to the Acquisition | (2 | ) | | | (2 | ) | |||||||
Liability as of September 30, 2004 | $ | | $ | | $ | | $ | | |||||
13. Other Current and Noncurrent Liabilities
Other current liabilities consist of the following:
|
September 30, 2004 |
November 30, 2003 |
||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
(in millions) |
|||||
Accrued expenses | $ | 159 | $ | 141 | ||
Accrued compensation and benefits | 93 | 116 | ||||
Deferred income | 46 | 41 | ||||
Acquisition and merger-related restructuring liabilities | 90 | 45 | ||||
Accrued interest | 31 | | ||||
Cost-savings incentive plan payable | 10 | | ||||
Other | 3 | 24 | ||||
$ | 432 | $ | 367 | |||
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Other noncurrent liabilities consist of the following:
|
September 30, 2004 |
November 30, 2003 |
||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
(in millions) |
|||||
Deferred income | $ | 25 | $ | 20 | ||
Accrued compensation and benefits | 29 | 20 | ||||
Minority interest | 9 | 9 | ||||
Cost-savings incentive plan payable | 10 | | ||||
Acquisition and merger-related restructuring liabilities | 89 | 25 | ||||
Unfavorable and other contractual obligations | 135 | 71 | ||||
Licensing advance payable | 8 | 8 | ||||
Other | 28 | 27 | ||||
$ | 333 | $ | 180 | |||
Cost-Savings Incentive Plan
In connection with the Acquisition, the Company implemented several plans to restructure its operations and reduce operating costs. In order to incentivize management to reduce costs, the Company approved a cost-savings incentive compensation plan during the seven months ended September 30, 2004. Under the plan, key employees of the Company will be entitled to earn up to $20 million in the aggregate based on the attainment and maintenance of certain cost-savings targets. Incentive awards under this plan are scheduled to be paid out in two equal annual installments on or about December 31, 2004 and 2005.
Based on the level of cost savings actually generated at the end of September 30, 2004, which exceeded the cost-savings targets under the plan, the Company determined that it was probable that eligible employees would vest in the full benefits under the plan. Accordingly, the Company recorded the full $20 million liability under the plan during the seven months ended September 30, 2004. Such amount, together with $6 million of other restructuring-related costs, have been classified as a one-time reduction of operating income under the caption "restructuring costs" in the accompanying statement of operations.
Licensing Advance Payable
Other noncurrent liabilities include an $8 million obligation at each of September 30, 2004 and November 30, 2003 to repay an advance received in a prior period under a licensing agreement. Under the terms of the original agreement, such amount was subject to repayment if the advance was not recouped from royalties generated under the agreement by November 30, 2003. In June 2003, the parties entered into an amended agreement whereby, in connection with an extension of the term of the original agreement, the Company agreed to repay the advance over a six-year period ended November 30, 2009. Of the total repayment amount, $2 million was repaid in 2003. The remaining $8 million is repayable as follows: 2006 $0.5 million; 2007 $0.5 million; 2008 $3 million; and 2009 $4 million.
F-35
14. Debt
In connection with the Acquisition, the Company incurred $1.650 billion of indebtedness consisting of (i) $1.150 billion of borrowings under the term loan portion of its senior secured credit facility and (ii) $500 million of borrowings under a senior subordinated bridge loan facility (the "Bridge Loan"). A portion of these borrowings was refinanced in April 2004 (the "Refinancing"). The following summarizes the Refinancing, the Company's debt capitalization as of September 30, 2004 and the principal terms of the Company's financing arrangements.
The Refinancing
In April 2004, the Company incurred $697 million of new indebtedness, consisting of the issuance of (i) $465 million principal amount of 7.375% Senior Subordinated Notes due 2014, (ii) 100 million Sterling principal amount of 8.125% Senior Subordinated notes due 2014 (U.S. dollar equivalent of $182 million as of April 2004) and (iii) $50 million of additional borrowings under the term loan portion of the Company's senior secured credit facility.
Together with available cash on hand, such proceeds were used (i) to repay all $500 million of borrowings under the Bridge Loan, (ii) to return a portion of the initial capital investment by the Investor Group in the amount of $202 million and (iii) to pay certain financing-related transaction costs.
In connection with this Refinancing, the Company incurred a $6 million pretax loss during the seven months ended September 30, 2004 to write off the carrying value of its unamortized debt issuance costs paid in connection with its borrowings under the Bridge Loan.
Debt Capitalization
As of September 30, 2004, the Company's long-term debt consisted of:
|
September 30, 2004 |
||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
(in millions) |
||||
Senior secured credit facility: | |||||
Revolving credit facility | $ | | |||
Term loan | 1,194 | ||||
1,194 | |||||
7.375% U.S. dollar-denominated Notes due 2014 | 465 | ||||
8.125% Sterling-denominated Notes due 2014 | 181 | ||||
Total debt | 1,840 | ||||
Less current portion | (12 | ) | |||
Total long term debt | $ | 1,828 | |||
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Senior Secured Credit Facility
The senior secured credit facility consists of a $1.2 billion term loan portion and a $250 million revolving credit portion. The term loan portion of the facility matures in seven years in February 2011. The Company is required to prepay outstanding term loans, subject to certain exceptions and conditions, with excess cash flow or in the event of certain asset sales, casualty and condemnation events and incurrence of debt. The Company is required to make minimum repayments under the term loan portion of the facility in quarterly principal amounts of $3 million for the first six years and nine months, with a remaining balloon payment in February 2011.
The revolving credit portion of the senior secured facility matures in six years in February 2010. There are no mandatory reductions in borrowing availability for the revolving credit portion of the facility through its term.
Borrowings under both the term loan and revolving credit portion of the senior secured credit facility bear interest at a rate equal to an applicable margin plus, at the Company's option, either (a) a base rate determined by reference to the higher of (1) the prime rate of Bank of America, N.A. and (2) the federal funds rate plus 1/2 of 1% or (b) a LIBOR rate determined by reference to the costs of funds for deposits in the currency of such borrowing for the interest period relevant to such borrowing adjusted for certain additional costs. The initial applicable margin for borrowings under the revolving credit facility and the term loan facility is 1.75% with respect to base rate borrowings and 2.75% with respect to LIBOR borrowings. The applicable margins for borrowings under the senior secured credit facility may be reduced, subject to the Company attaining certain leverage ratios.
In addition to paying interest on outstanding principal under the senior secured credit facility, the Company is required to pay a commitment fee to the lenders under the revolving credit facility in respect of the unutilized commitments. The initial commitment fee rate is .50%.
The commitment fee rate may be reduced subject to the Company attaining certain leverage ratios. The Company is also required to pay customary letter of credit fees, as necessary.
The senior secured credit facility contains a number of covenants that, among other things, restrict, subject to certain exceptions, the Company's ability and the ability of its subsidiaries to sell assets, incur additional indebtedness or issue preferred stock, repay other indebtedness, pay dividends and distributions or repurchase capital stock, create liens on assets, make investments, loans or advances, make certain acquisitions, engage in mergers or consolidations, engage in certain transactions with affiliates, amend certain material agreements, change the business conducted by itself, its parent company and its subsidiaries, and enter into agreements that restrict dividends from subsidiaries. In addition, the secured credit facility requires the Company to maintain the following financial covenants: a maximum total leverage ratio, a minimum interest coverage ratio and a maximum capital expenditures limitation.
Senior Subordinated Notes due 2014
The Company has outstanding two tranches of Senior Subordinated notes due 2014: $465 million principal amount of U.S. dollar-denominated notes (the "U.S. Notes") and 100 million principal
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amount of Sterling-denominated notes (the "Sterling Notes" and collectively, the "Subordinated Notes"). The Subordinated Notes mature on April 15, 2014.
Interest is payable on the Subordinated Notes on a semi-annual basis at a fixed rate of 7.375% per annum for the U.S. Notes and 8.125% per annum for the Sterling Notes.
The Subordinated Notes are redeemable in whole or in part, at the option of the Company, at any time at a redemption price defined under the indenture governing the Subordinated Notes (the "Indenture") that generally includes a premium. In addition, upon a change of control of the Company and upon certain asset sales as specified under the Indenture, the Company may be required to make an offer to redeem the Subordinated Notes from the holders at a redemption price defined under the Indenture that includes a premium.
The Subordinated Notes are unsecured and subordinated to all of the Company's existing and future senior indebtedness, including the Company's obligations under its senior secured credit facility. Each of the Company's wholly owned domestic subsidiaries that have guaranteed the obligations under the Company's senior secured credit facility also have guaranteed the Subordinated Notes on a joint, several and unconditional basis.
The Indenture limits the Company's ability and the ability of its restricted subsidiaries to incur additional indebtedness or issue certain preferred shares; to pay dividends on or make other distributions in respect of its capital stock or make other restricted payments; to make certain investments; to sell certain assets; to create liens on certain debt without securing the notes; to consolidate, merge, sell or otherwise dispose off all or substantially all of its assets; to enter into certain transactions with affiliates; and to designate its subsidiaries as unrestricted subsidiaries.
Subject to certain exceptions, the Indenture permits the Company and its restricted subsidiaries to incur additional indebtedness, including secured indebtedness.
Pre-Acquisition Debt
During 2003, the Company incurred approximately $114 million of indebtedness in connection with a recapitalization of certain wholly owned international subsidiaries. The principal amount of 100 million Euros was owed to Societe General and was repaid in 2004 in connection with the Acquisition.
Interest Expense and Maturities
Total interest expense, including amounts payable to Time Warner and its affiliates for all periods prior to the closing of the Acquisition, was $88 million for the seven months ended September 30, 2004, $3 million for the three months ended February 29, 2004, $47 million for the year ended November 30, 2003 and $59 million for the year ended November 30, 2002. The weighted-average interest rate of the Company's total debt at September 30, 2004 was 5.75%.
Annual repayments of long-term debt for each of the five years subsequent to September 30, 2004 are $12 million per year.
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Fair Value of Debt
Based on the level of interest rates prevailing at September 30, 2004, the fair value of the Company's fixed-rate debt exceeded its carrying value by approximately $20 million. Unrealized gains or losses on debt do not result in the realization or expenditure of cash and generally are not recognized for financial reporting purposes unless the debt is retired prior to its maturity.
15. Income Taxes
For all periods subsequent to the closing of the Acquisition, the Company is a stand-alone tax filer. However, for all periods prior to the closing of the Acquisition, the taxable results of Old WMG were included in the consolidated U.S. federal and various state, local and foreign income tax returns of Time Warner or its subsidiaries. Also, in certain state, local and foreign jurisdictions, Old WMG filed on a stand-alone basis. The tax provisions and related balance sheet disclosures for the period prior to the closing of the Acquisition have been prepared assuming Old WMG was a stand-alone taxpayer for the periods presented.
Domestic and foreign pretax income (loss) are as follows:
|
Successor |
|
|
|
|||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
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Predecessor |
||||||||||||
|
Seven Months Ended September 30, 2004 |
||||||||||||
|
Three Months Ended February 29, 2004 |
Years Ended November 30, |
|||||||||||
|
2003 |
2002 |
|||||||||||
|
|
|
(in millions) |
|
|||||||||
Domestic | $ | (112 | ) | $ | (40 | ) | $ | (1,304 | ) | $ | (1,600 | ) | |
Foreign | 38 | 25 | (13 | ) | 30 | ||||||||
Total | (74 | ) | (15 | ) | $ | (1,317 | ) | $ | (1,570 | ) | |||
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Current and deferred income taxes (tax benefits) provided are as follows:
|
Successor |
|
|
|
||||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
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Predecessor |
|||||||||||||
|
Seven Months Ended September 30, 2004 |
|||||||||||||
|
Three Months Ended February 29, 2004 |
Years Ended November 30, |
||||||||||||
|
2003 |
2002 |
||||||||||||
|
|
|
(in millions) |
|
||||||||||
Federal: | ||||||||||||||
Current | $ | | $ | $ | $ | | ||||||||
Deferred | | (2 | ) | (36 | ) | (320 | ) | |||||||
Foreign: |
||||||||||||||
Current(a) | 21 | 21 | 52 | 52 | ||||||||||
Deferred | 8 | (2 | ) | 111 | 3 | |||||||||
State: |
||||||||||||||
Current | 1 | | 3 | 2 | ||||||||||
Deferred | | | (94 | ) | (77 | ) | ||||||||
Total | $ | 30 | $ | 17 | $ | 36 | $ | (340 | ) | |||||
The differences between income taxes expected at the U.S. federal statutory income tax rate of 35% and income taxes provided are as set forth below:
|
Successor |
|
|
|
|||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
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Predecessor |
||||||||||||
|
Seven Months Ended September 30, 2004 |
||||||||||||
|
Three Months Ended February 29, 2004 |
Years Ended November 30, |
|||||||||||
|
2003 |
2002 |
|||||||||||
|
|
|
(in millions) |
|
|||||||||
Taxes on income at the U.S. federal statutory rate | $ | (26 | ) | $ | (5 | ) | $ | (461 | ) | $ | (550 | ) | |
State and local taxes, net of federal tax benefit | 1 | | (59 | ) | (49 | ) | |||||||
Non-deductible impairments of goodwill | | | 2 | 194 | |||||||||
Foreign income taxed at different rates | 9 | 6 | 38 | 58 | |||||||||
Unrecoverable foreign taxes due to reorganization | | | 46 | | |||||||||
Current year loss without benefit | 46 | 16 | 44 | | |||||||||
Tax loss carry forward write-off | | | 423 | | |||||||||
Other | | | 3 | 7 | |||||||||
Total income tax expense (benefit) | $ | 30 | $ | 17 | $ | 36 | $ | (340 | ) | ||||
During the period ended September 30, 2004, the Company incurred losses in the U.S. and certain foreign territories. The tax benefit associated with these losses was offset by a valuation allowance as the Company has determined that it is more likely than not that these losses will not be utilized.
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Significant components of the Company's net deferred tax assets/(liabilities) are summarized below. The components of the Company's net deferred tax assets and liabilities are not entirely comparable from period to period due to the accounting for the Acquisition. In particular, the Company made a Section 338(h)(10) election under the Internal Revenue Code for its domestic net assets. Such election eliminated any historical book-tax basis differences for which deferred taxes were required, and among other things, will allow the Company to deduct, for tax purposes, the annual depreciation and amortization expenses related to such assets:
|
September 30, 2004 |
November 30, 2003 |
|||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
(in millions) |
||||||
Current deferred tax assets (liabilities): | |||||||
Allowances and reserves | $ | 4 | $ | 193 | |||
Employee benefits and compensation | 34 | 28 | |||||
Deferred income | | 9 | |||||
Net current deferred tax assets | 38 | 230 | |||||
Noncurrent deferred tax assets (liabilities): | |||||||
Other accruals | 87 | | |||||
Assets acquired in business combinations | (232 | ) | (843 | ) | |||
Unremitted earnings of foreign subsidiaries | | (14 | ) | ||||
Depreciation and amortization | 14 | (35 | ) | ||||
Tax attribute carryforwards | 157 | | |||||
Foreign deferred taxes | | (98 | ) | ||||
Other | 2 | 38 | |||||
Valuation allowance(a) | (293 | ) | | ||||
Net noncurrent deferred tax liabilities | (265 | ) | (952 | ) | |||
Net deferred tax liabilities | $ | (227 | ) | $ | (722 | ) | |
Old WMG had previously recorded a deferred tax asset for net operating losses incurred while it was a member of the Time Warner consolidated tax return. These losses were only available to Old WMG while it remained within the tax consolidation of Time Warner. As a result of the sale of Old WMG, Old WMG ceased being a member of the Time Warner consolidated group. As such, in anticipation of the closing of the Acquisition, Old WMG wrote off the deferred tax asset in 2003, net of any related valuation allowance, through the income tax provision in the statement of operations. Similarly, no tax benefit was recorded for net operating losses generated in the first quarter of 2004.
At September 30, 2004, the Company has net operating losses for federal income tax purposes of approximately $81.8 million, which expire in fiscal year 2024. Additionally, the Company has net operating losses in various state and foreign jurisdictions expiring in various periods. The Company also has foreign tax credit carryforwards for U.S. tax purposes of approximately $9 million. Under existing tax law at September 30, 2004 these foreign tax credit carryforwards would expire in 2009. Subsequent to
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year end, a new tax law was enacted extending the carryforward period by five years such that the credits would expire in 2014.
US income and foreign withholding taxes have not been recorded on permanently reinvested earnings of certain foreign subsidiaries of approximately $281 million at September 30, 2004, of which $200 million is attributable to earnings of certain foreign subsidiaries relating to periods prior to the Acquisition date. Determination of the amount of unrecognized deferred US income tax liability with respect to such earnings is not practicable.
Congress recently approved the American Jobs Creation Act of 2004 (the "Jobs Creation Act"). The Jobs Creation Act contains a number of provisions that might affect the Company's future effective tax rate. The most significant provision would allow the Company to elect to deduct from its taxable income 85% of certain eligible dividends received by the Company from non-U.S. subsidiaries before the end of 2005 if those dividends are reinvested in the U.S. for eligible purposes. The Company is evaluating the potential impact (if any) of this tax law change on its future effective tax rate.
16. Pensions and Other Postretirement Benefits
Prior the Acquisition, Old WMG employees in the U.S. and U.K. generally participated in defined benefit pension plans sponsored by Time Warner. As part of the Acquisition, Time Warner agreed to retain its obligations related to such employees of Old WMG; however, those employees are no longer eligible to earn additional benefits for future services. As a result, Old WMG recognized a $15 million loss in 2003 in connection with the probable pension curtailment that ultimately occurred upon the closing of the Acquisition.
Most international employees, such as those in Germany and Japan, participate in locally sponsored defined benefit plans, which are not considered to be material in the aggregate and have a combined projected benefit obligation of approximately $40 million at September 30, 2004. Pension benefits under the Plans are based on formulas that reflect the employees' years of service and compensation levels during their employment period. The Company had an aggregate pension liability relating to these plans of approximately $23 million recorded in its balance sheet as of September 30, 2004.
For the seven months ended September 30, 2004, the three months ended February 29, 2004 and the years ended November 30, 2003 and 2002, pension expense amounted to $4 million, $3 million, $21 million and $21 million, respectively.
Certain employees also participate in pre-tax defined contribution plans. The Company's contributions to the defined contribution plans are based upon a percentage of the employees' elected contributions. The Company's defined contribution plan expense amounted to approximately $2 million for the seven months ended September 30, 2004, $2 million for the three months ended February 29, 2004 and $4 million in each of the years ended November 30, 2003 and 2002.
17. Stock-Based Compensation Plans
Post-Acquisition
In connection with the Acquisition, the Company and WMG Parent Corp. ("Parent Corp."), the indirect parent of the Company, implemented an equity-based, management compensation plan to align compensation for certain key executives with the performance of the Company. Under this plan, certain
F-42
key executives were granted a combination of service-based and performance-based stock options or restricted stock. In addition, certain key executives were granted the right to purchase shares of restricted stock in Parent Corp. Similarly, the stock options and shares of restricted stock granted allow such executives to acquire shares of Class A common stock in Parent Corp. A description of each type of equity-based award is described below.
Service-Based Awards
During the seven months ended September 30, 2004, Parent Corp. granted various service-based equity awards to certain key executives of the Company. These awards consisted of approximately 437 stock options to purchase shares of Class A common stock of Parent Corp. and approximately 699 restricted shares of Class A common stock of Parent Corp. The stock option awards become exercisable over a four-year vesting period tied to the executives' continuing employment and expire ten years from the date of grant. Similarly, the restricted shares vest over a four-year period.
Performance-Based Awards
During the seven months ended September 30, 2004, Parent Corp. granted various performance-based equity awards to certain key executives of the Company. These awards consisted of approximately 875 stock options to purchase shares of Class A common stock of Parent Corp. and approximately 1,400 restricted shares of Class A common stock of Parent Corp. The awards vest over a four-year period tied to the executives' continuing employment and the achievement of certain performance conditions by the Company. In particular, half of the awards have a performance condition based on a 2x liquidity event and the other half of the awards have a performance condition based on a 3x liquidity event (each respectively a "Liquidity Event").
As defined in the underlying plan agreements, a 2x or 3x Liquidity Event generally means the occurrence of an event that implies an aggregate value for the equity held by the Investor Group of 2x or 3x, respectively, of its initial value, as adjusted for prior dividends or other returns of capital received by the Investor Group. Such Liquidity Events would include, but not be limited to, an initial public offering of Parent Corp.'s Class A common stock and a change-in-control transaction under which the Investor Group receives cash and/or marketable securities in exchange for its equity.
Performance-based stock option awards expire ten years from the date of grant. In addition, to the extent that the performance condition of an award is not satisfied prior thereto, the performance-based award vests on the seventh anniversary of the date of grant as long as the executive is still employed by the Company.
Purchases of Restricted Stock
During the seven months ended September 30, 2004, Parent Corp. allowed certain key executives to purchase restricted shares of its Class A common stock. To the extent such shares were purchased at a price equal to fair market value at the date of purchase, there is no compensatory element of the transaction. Accordingly, the transaction has not been reflected in the financial statements of the Company as it is solely a capital transaction of Parent Corp. However, to the extent such shares were purchased at a price below fair market value at the date of purchase, the discount has been treated as deferred compensation in the Company's financial statements and is being expensed over the executives' expected service period.
F-43
During the seven months ended September 30, 2004, an executive of the Company purchased approximately 2,884 restricted shares of Class A common stock of Parent Corp. at a fair value of $1,000 per share. Certain other executives of the Company purchased approximately 787 restricted shares of Class A common stock of Parent Corp. at a cost of $1,000 per share, compared to the weighted-average fair value of the stock of $1,679 per share. The aggregate discount of approximately $535 thousand has been recognized as deferred compensation expense in the Company's financial statements.
Black-Scholes Assumptions
For purposes of applying FAS 123, the fair value of each stock option grant was estimated on the date of grant using the Black-Scholes option-pricing model. The following weighted-average assumptions were used for all grants to the Company's employees in the seven months ended September 30, 2004: dividend yield of 0%; expected volatility of 50%; risk-free interest rate of 3.07%; and expected term to exercise of 5 years.
Fair Value of Equity-Based Awards
A summary of the fair value of equity-based awards granted during the seven months ended September 20, 2004 is set forth below:
|
Number of Shares Granted |
Weighted-Average Exercise Price |
Weighted-Average Fair Value |
||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Service-Based Stock Options: | |||||||||
At-Market Grants | 350 | $ | 1,000 | $ | 468.40 | ||||
Below-Market Grants | 87 | 1,000 | 1,181.15 | ||||||
Performance-Based Stock Options: |
|||||||||
At-Market Grants2x Liquidity Event | 350 | 1,000 | 468.40 | ||||||
Below-Market Grants2x Liquidity Event | 88 | 1,000 | 1,181.15 | ||||||
At-Market Grants3x Liquidity Event |
350 |
1,000 |
468.40 |
||||||
Below-Market Grants 3x Liquidity Event | 87 | 1,000 | 1,181.15 | ||||||
Total Stock Options | 1,312 | $ | 1,000 | $ | 610.95 | ||||
Restricted Stock Grants: | |||||||||
Service-Based Awards | 699 | N/A | $ | 1,000.00 | |||||
Performance-Based 2x Liquidity Event Awards | 700 | N/A | 1,000.00 | ||||||
Performance-Based 3x Liquidity Event Awards | 700 | N/A | 1,000.00 | ||||||
Total Restricted Stock Grants(a) | 2,099 | N/A | $ | 1,000.00 | |||||
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Compensation Expense
For the seven months ended September 30, 2004, the Company recognized non-cash compensation expense of less than $1 million relating to its stock-based compensation plans.
Summary of Stock Option Activity
A summary of Parent Corp. stock option activity with respect to employees of the Company is as follows:
|
Parent Corp. Options Outstanding |
Weighted-Average Exercise Price |
|||
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Balance at November 30, 2003 | | $ | | ||
Granted | 1,312 | 1,000.00 | |||
Exercised | | | |||
Cancelled | | | |||
Balance at September 30, 2004 | 1,312 | $ | 1,000.00 | ||
None of the stock options are exercisable as of September 30, 2004.
Pre-Acquisition
Prior to the closing of the Acquisition, employees of Old WMG were granted options to purchase Time Warner common stock under various Time Warner stock option plans. Such options were granted to employees of Old WMG with exercise prices equal to, or in excess of, fair market value at the date of grant. Accordingly, in accordance with APB 25 and related interpretations, compensation cost generally was not recognized by Time Warner, nor charged to Old WMG, related to such stock option plans. Generally, the options became exercisable over a four-year vesting period and expired ten years from the date of grant. See Note 3 for a summary of the impact on reported net income (loss) had Old WMG recognized compensation cost for employee stock options.
Time Warner Black-Scholes Assumptions
For purposes of applying FAS 123, the fair value of each option grant was estimated on the date of grant using the Black-Scholes option-pricing model with the following weighted-average assumptions used for grants to Old WMG's employees in the three months ended February 29, 2004, and the years ended November 30, 2003 and 2002: dividend yields of 0% in each period; expected volatility of 35.2%, 52.8% and 52.9%, respectively; risk-free interest rates of 3.1%, 2.6% and 4.1%, respectively; and expected terms to exercise of 1.4 years, 3.1 years and 2.9 years after vesting, respectively.
Fair Value of Time Warner Equity-Based Awards
The weighted-average fair value of an option granted to the Company's employees was $3.20, $4.33 and $9.35 for the three months ended February 29, 2004 and the years ended November 30, 2003 and 2002, respectively.
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Summary of Time Warner Stock Option Activity
A summary of Time Warner stock option activity with respect to employees of the Company is as follows:
|
Time Warner Options Outstanding |
Weighted-Average Exercise Price |
|||
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Balance at November 30, 2001 | 24,584 | $ | 35.43 | ||
2002 Activity |
|||||
Granted | 6,978 | 24.76 | |||
Exercised | (1,058 | ) | 9.83 | ||
Cancelled/transferred(a) | (788 | ) | 39.76 | ||
Balance at November 30, 2002 | 29,716 | 33.72 | |||
2003 Activity |
|||||
Granted | 6,341 | 11.72 | |||
Exercised | (196 | ) | 12.21 | ||
Cancelled/transferred(a) | (2,379 | ) | 23.79 | ||
Balance at November 30, 2003 | 33,482 | 30.39 | |||
The following table summarizes information about Time Warner stock options outstanding with respect to employees of the Company at November 30, 2003:
Range of Exercise Prices |
Number Outstanding as of 11/30/03 |
Weighted- Average Remaining Contractual Life |
Weighted- Average Exercise Price |
Number Exercisable as of 11/30/03 |
Weighted- Average Exercise Price |
|||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
(in thousands) |
|
|
(in thousands) |
|
|||||||
$10.01 15.00 | 8,654 | 6.49 | $ | 11.53 | 3,362 | $ | 12.63 | |||||
15.01 20.00 | 3,136 | 6.81 | 16.08 | 1,530 | 16.41 | |||||||
20.01 30.00 | 7,225 | 7.16 | 25.84 | 3,500 | 24.98 | |||||||
30.01 45.00 | 3,635 | 6.23 | 37.99 | 3,001 | 38.31 | |||||||
45.01 50.00 | 8,559 | 6.73 | 48.43 | 6,044 | 48.21 | |||||||
50.01 64.00 | 2,273 | 6.63 | 56.29 | 1,990 | 56.72 | |||||||
Total | 33,482 | 6.71 | 30.39 | 19,427 | 34.71 | |||||||
Of the approximate 33 million Time Warner stock options held by employees of Old WMG as of the closing date of the Acquisition, approximately 27 million stock options remained outstanding and the balance was cancelled pursuant to the underlying terms of the awards. These stock options remain the obligation of Time Warner and not the Company, and will expire pursuant to the underlying terms of the awards, generally not exceeding three years from the closing date of the Acquisition. In exchange for the cancellation of certain unvested stock option awards as of the Acquisition date, employees of Old WMG received an aggregate $21 million payment funded by Time Warner. This payment was considered in the determination of the fair value of Old WMG's net asset as of November 30, 2003
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and, accordingly, has been classified as a component of the impairment charge recognized during the year ended November 30, 2003.
Time Warner Restricted Stock Plans
Time Warner also had various restricted stock plans for employees and non-employee directors of the board. Under these plans, shares of common stock are granted which do not vest until the end of a restriction period, generally between three to five years. During 2002, Time Warner did not issue any shares of restricted stock to employees of the Company. However, during 2003, Time Warner issued approximately 821,000 shares of restricted stock to employees of Old WMG at a weighted-average fair value of $13 per share.
Of the 922,000 unvested shares of Time Warner restricted stock held by employees of Old WMG as of the closing date of the Acquisition, 217,000 shares became vested either pursuant to their original terms or on an accelerated basis, 568,000 shares are still subject to vesting conditions and remain the obligation of Time Warner and the balance was cancelled by Time Warner. Old WMG recognized the cost associated with the vesting of such shares and the anticipated change in employee status of certain executives in 2003 as a component of deal-related transaction and other costs in its statement of operations.
18. Shareholder's Equity
In connection with the Acquisition, the Company became a wholly owned subsidiary of WMG Holdings Corp. ("Holdings"). Holdings is owned directly and indirectly by Parent Corp. and the Investor Group. The portion of the purchase price funded by both the initial $1.250 billion capital contribution by the Investor Group and the $35 million of value associated with the issuance of warrants to Time Warner by Parent Corp. has been reflected as an increase in additional paid-in capital in the accompanying financial statements of the Company.
Return of Capital
In April 2004, in connection with the Refinancing, the Company used a portion of the proceeds to pay a return of capital to the Investor Group in the amount of $202 million.
In the fall of 2004, the Company used its available excess cash to pay a return of capital to the Investor Group in the amount of approximately $350 million. Of such aggregate amount, approximately $8 million was declared and paid in September 2004 and the balance of approximately $342 million was declared and paid in October 2004. Accordingly, the accompanying financial statements only reflect the September 2004 payment and the balance was recorded in October 2004, subsequent to the closing of the Company's fiscal year.
19. Related Party Transactions
The nature of the Company's related party transactions has changed as the Company has migrated from a wholly owned operation of Time Warner for all periods prior to the closing of the Acquisition to a stand-alone independent company, effective as of March 1, 2004. Accordingly, the following discussion of related party transactions highlights the significant related party relationships and transactions that existed both before and after the closing of the Acquisition.
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Post-Acquisition
Transition Services Agreements
In connection with the Acquisition, the Company entered into a seller administrative services agreement with Time Warner (the "Seller Administrative Services Agreement"). Under the Seller Administrative Services Agreement, Time Warner agreed to provide the Company with certain administrative services, including (i) accounting services, (ii) tax services, (iii) human resources and benefits services, (iv) information technology services, (v) legal services, (vi) treasury services, (vii) payroll services, (viii) travel services, (ix) real estate management services and (x) messenger services. The obligations for Time Warner to provide those services generally expire no later than December 31, 2004. The amounts to be paid under the Seller Administrative Services Agreement generally are based on the costs incurred by Time Warner in providing those administrative services, including Time Warner's employee costs and out-of-pocket expenses. For the seven months ended September 30, 2004, the Company incurred $4 million of costs under these administrative arrangements.
Management Advisory Agreement
In connection with the Acquisition, the Company entered into a management advisory agreement with the Investor Group for ongoing consulting and management advisory services. The management advisory agreement requires the Company to pay the Investor Group an annual fee of $10 million per year. The $10 million annual fee has been prepaid in its entirety through February 2005. For the seven months ended September 30, 2004, the Company has expensed $6 million of this prepaid fee and such amount has been included as a component of selling, general and administrative expenses in the accompanying statement of operations.
In addition, in the case of future services provided by the Investor Group in connection with any future acquisition, disposition or financing transaction involving the Company or its direct or indirect parent, the management advisory agreement requires the Company to pay the Investor Group an aggregate fee of 1% of the gross transaction value of each such transaction. The Company paid an aggregate of $75 million under the management advisory agreement, which was entered into concurrently with the Acquisition and related original financing, for advisory services in structuring and negotiating the Acquisition, for performing due diligence, determining the initial capitalization, for securing and negotiating the original bank financing and for other related matters. In addition, the fee was paid to affiliates of the equity owners who perform those types of investment advisory services. Accordingly, these fees have been apportioned between direct costs of the Acquisition (and capitalized as part of the allocation of purchase price) and capitalized debt issuance costs. Although the Company has not conducted a formal analysis as to the arm's-length nature of such fee, the Company believes that the amount of such fee is representative of, or comparable to, such fees paid in similar transactions.
The management advisory agreement expires on December 30, 2014, subject to certain early termination provisions.
Other Arrangements with the Investor Group and its Affiliates
In the normal course of conducting its business, the Company has entered into various other transactions with the Investor Group and its affiliates. As an example, employees of the Investor Group
F-48
have filled management roles on an interim basis while the Company has been transitioning to a permanent management team, including the role of Chief Financial Officer of the Company since the beginning of June 2004. Such employees have not received any compensation from the Company for such services; however, a representative cost for such services in the aggregate amount of $280,000 has been charged to the statement of operations for the seven months ended September 30, 2004 with a corresponding increase in additional paid-in capital.
Pre-Acquisition
As previously described, the operations of Old WMG were under the control of Time Warner through the end of February 2004. During this period, in the normal course of conducting its business, Old WMG had various transactions with Time Warner and its affiliates, including the CD and DVD manufacturing and printing operations of Time Warner formerly under the management of Old WMG. The following is a summary of the principal transactions between Old WMG on the one hand, and Time Warner and its affiliates on the other hand.
Manufacturing and Printing Services with Time Warner Affiliates
Old WMG had an exclusive arrangement with affiliates of Time Warner to receive manufacturing and printing services in connection with the production of CDs, cassettes and other music-related audio and video products. Amounts included in cost of sales in connection with these services were approximately $216 million for the year ended November 30, 2003 and $217 million for the year ended November 30, 2002. Such costs did not reflect terms negotiated on an arm's-length basis between the units. In connection with the sale of Time Warner's manufacturing and printing operations in October 2003, such services were provided on an arm's-length basis by Cinram, effective with the closing date of the sale (see Note 7).
Distribution Services with Time Warner and Old WMG Affiliates
Old WMG provided distribution services to certain Time Warner affiliates, including Warner Home Video and Time-Life Inc. In addition, Old WMG provided distribution services to other related parties, including companies in which Old WMG had ownership interests therein that allowed for the exercise of significant influence over the operations and financial policies of the investees. Amounts included in revenues in connection with these services were approximately $51 million for the year ended November 30, 2003 and $50 million for the year ended November 30, 2002. Such revenues may not have reflected terms negotiated on an arm's-length basis between the entities. In connection with the sale of Time Warner's manufacturing and printing operations in October 2003, the services for Warner Home Video were provided by Cinram, effective with the closing date of the sale (see Note 7).
Licensing Arrangements with Time Warner and Old WMG Affiliates
Old WMG periodically licensed its masters and rights in owned or administered musical compositions to affiliates of Time Warner for inclusion in certain movie soundtracks, film and television series, music compilations and other forms of entertainment. Amounts included in revenues in connection with these and other licensing arrangements were approximately $2 million for the three months ended February 29, 2004, $6 million for the year ended November 30, 2003 and $11 million for the year ended November 30, 2002. Such revenues reflect terms resulting from a negotiation between the units that, in management's view, result in a reasonable basis.
F-49
Old WMG also entered into sub-publishing or administrative agreements with certain Time Warner affiliates, whereby it exploited or administered rights in musical compositions held by such affiliates. Royalty expenses included in cost of revenues in connection with these arrangements were approximately $2 million for the three months ended February 29, 2004, $19 million for the year ended November 30, 2003 and $14 million for the year ended November 30, 2002. Such amounts reflect terms resulting from a negotiation between the units that, in management's view, result in a reasonable basis.
Real Estate and Marketing Arrangements with Time Warner Affiliates
Old WMG utilized and paid for certain office space leased by Time Warner and its affiliates. In addition, Old WMG periodically advertised its products in media produced by Time Warner and its affiliates. Amounts included in costs and expenses in connection with these arrangements were approximately $2 million for the three months ended February 29, 2004, $26 million for the year ended November 30, 2003 and $20 million for the year ended November 30, 2002. Such amounts reflect terms resulting from a negotiation between the units that, in management's view, result in a reasonable basis.
Financing Arrangements with Time Warner Affiliates
As described in Note 3, Old WMG had agreements with Time Warner, whereby all cash received or paid by Old WMG was included in, or funded by, clearing accounts or international cash pools within Time Warner's centralized cash management system. Some of these arrangements were interest bearing and others were not. Net interest income of approximately $1 million for three months ended February 29, 2004 and $10.8 million for the year ended November 30, 2003, and net interest expense of approximately $3.6 million for the year ended November 30, 2002 were recognized from Time Warner and its affiliates or other related parties.
In addition, as described in Note 21, Old WMG participated in Time Warner's foreign currency risk-management program and was allocated its proportional share of foreign exchange contract gains and losses. Net foreign exchange contract losses were immaterial for the three months ended February 29, 2004, $17 million for the year ended November 30, 2003 and $4.5 million for the year ended November 30, 2002 were recognized and are classified in other income (expense), net, in the accompanying statement of operations.
See Note 23 for a description of the Company's participation in Time Warner's accounts receivable securitization program.
Other Costs with Time Warner Affiliates
Employees of Old WMG participated in several Time Warner medical, stock option, pension, deferred compensation and other benefit plans for which Old WMG was charged an allocable share of plan expenses, including administrative costs. The Company also was covered under various Time Warner insurance policies and was charged an allocable share of such costs. Amounts included in expenses in connection with these and other sundry costs, such as communications networking costs, were approximately $8 million for the three months ended February 29, 2004, $62 million for the year ended November 30, 2003 and $53 million for the year ended November 30, 2002.
F-50
Affiliated Management Services
Through February 2004, Old WMG had general management responsibility over substantially all of Time Warner's music operations, including Time Warner's CD and DVD manufacturing and printing operations. Accordingly, certain general and administrative costs incurred in the management of those operations were allocated to Old WMG, including legal, accounting, financial and information technology services. As described previously in Note 2, the allocation of these costs was determined based on Old WMG's pro rata share of the revenues generated by those collective operations. The costs allocated to Old WMG are not necessarily indicative of the costs that would have been incurred if Old WMG had obtained such services independently, nor are they indicative of costs that will be charged or incurred in the future. However, management believes such allocations are reasonable. Amounts included in expenses in connection with these affiliated management service costs were approximately $2 million for the three months ended February 29 2004, $79 million for the year ended November 30, 2003 and $85 million for the year ended November 30, 2002. Such amounts exclude approximately $47 million of costs for the year ended November 30, 2003 and $40 million of costs for the year ended November 30, 2002 that have been separately allocated to Time Warner's former CD and DVD manufacturing and printing operations for comparable management services.
20. Commitments and Contingencies
Leases
The Company occupies various facilities and uses certain equipment under many operating leases. Net rent expense was approximately $24 million in the seven months ended September 30, 2004, $13 million in the three months ended February 29, 2004, $53 million in the year ended November 30, 2003 and $57 million in the year ended November 30, 2002.
At September 30, 2004, future minimum payments under non-cancelable operating leases (net of sublease income) are as follows:
|
September 30, |
||
---|---|---|---|
|
(in millions) |
||
2005 | $ | 49 | |
2006 | 46 | ||
2007 | 45 | ||
2008 | 40 | ||
2009 | 37 | ||
Thereafter | 164 | ||
Total | $ | 381 | |
Guaranteed Minimum Talent Advances
The Company routinely enters into long-term commitments with artists, songwriters and co-publishers for the future delivery of music product. Aggregate firm commitments to such talent approximated $345 million at September 30, 2004. Such commitments are payable principally over a ten-year period, generally upon delivery of albums from the artists or future musical compositions by songwriters and co-publishers.
Other
Other off-balance sheet, firm commitments, which include letters of credit and minimum funding commitments to investees, amounted to approximately $65 million at September 30, 2004.
F-51
Litigation
The Company is subject to a number of state and federal class action lawsuits, as well as an action brought by a number of state Attorneys General alleging unlawful horizontal and vertical agreements to fix the prices of compact discs by the major record companies. The parties to the federal action commenced by the Attorneys General have entered into a settlement agreement. On July 9, 2003, the Court entered a final judgment approving the settlement. In one of the two remaining lawsuits, Ottinger v. EMI Music, Inc., et al., the Court entered an order granting final approval of the settlement on January 21, 2004. In the other action, In re Compact Disc. Antitrust Litig., which was brought by individual retailers of compact discs alleging unlawful horizontal agreements to fix the prices of compact discs by the major record companies, on July 29, 2004, the Court denied the parties' motion to grant final approval to the settlement. On August 30, 2004, plaintiffs filed a Second Amended Consolidated Complaint adding additional individual retailers as named plaintiffs in the litigation, which the Company answered, denying all claims, on September 15, 2004. On October 22, 2004, the parties reached an agreement in principle on the terms of a settlement. The Company does not expect the final terms of that settlement to differ materially from the settlement agreement previously entered into by the parties. In connection with the aforementioned settlements, Old WMG paid approximately $30 million in cash and product costs in the aggregate during 2001 and 2002. Such amounts did not affect the statement of operations as the settlements were charged against a pre-existing liability relating to these matters.
On September 7, 2004 and November 22, 2004, Eliot Spitzer, the Attorney General of the State of New York, served Warner Music Group with requests for information in the form of subpoenas duces tecum in connection with an industry-wide investigation of the relationship between music companies and radio stations, including the use of independent promoters. In response to the Attorney General's subpoenas, we have commenced the production of documents. The investigation is pursuant to New York Executive Law §63(12) and New York General Business Law §349, both of which are consumer fraud statutes. It is too soon to predict the outcome of this investigation, but it has the potential to result in changes in the manner in which the recorded music industry promotes its records.
In addition to the State of New York investigation discussed above, the Company is involved with employment claims and other legal proceedings that are incidental to its normal business activities. It is reasonably possible that an adverse outcome on any of these matters could result in a material effect on the Company's combined financial statements. Due to the preliminary status of many of these matters, the Company is unable to predict the outcome or determine a range of loss at this time. However, in the opinion of management, it is not likely that the ultimate outcome of these matters will have a material effect on the Company's consolidated financial statements.
21. Derivative Financial Instruments
The Company has exposure to changes in foreign currency exchange rates relating to the cash flows generated by its international operations and exposure to changes in interest rates relating to floating-rate borrowings under its senior secured credit facility. Consequently, the Company uses derivative financial instruments to manage such risks. The following is a summary of the Company's risk management strategies and the effect of those strategies on the Company's financial statements.
F-52
Interest Rate Risk Management
The Company uses interest rate swap agreements to manage the floating to fixed-rate proportion of its debt portfolio. In particular, under its senior secured credit facility, the Company is required to maintain a fixed-to-floating debt ratio of at least 50% of its actual funded debt through at least April 2007. Consequently, the Company entered into interest rate swap agreements with a notional face amount of $300 million in 2004 in order to hedge the variability of expected future cash interest payments. Under these interest rate swap agreements, the Company agreed to receive floating-rate payments (based on three-month LIBOR rates) in exchange for fixed-rate payments for a fixed term of three years through May 2007.
The interest rate swap agreements have been designated as a cash flow hedge of the associated variability in future interest payments. As such, the agreements have been recorded at fair value in the accompanying balance sheet and the related gains or losses on the agreements are deferred in shareholder's equity (as a component of comprehensive income). These deferred gains and losses are recognized as an adjustment to interest expense in the period in which the related interest payments being hedged are made and recognized in income. However, to the extent that any of these contracts are not considered to be perfectly effective in offsetting the change in the amount of the interest payments being hedged, any changes in fair value relating to the ineffective portion of these contracts are immediately recognized in income.
For the seven months ended September 30, 2004, the Company recognized approximately $2 million of losses on its interest rate swap agreements, which have been classified as a component of interest expense in the accompanying statement of operations. The Company did not recognize any material gains or losses during the period relating to the ineffective portion of the agreements. At September 30, 2004, the Company had deferred approximately $4 million of losses on its interest rate swap agreements in shareholder's equity, of which approximately $1 million is expected to be recognized in income over the next twelve months.
The Company monitors its positions with, and the credit quality of, the financial institutions that are party to any of its financial transactions. Credit risk related to interest rate swaps is considered low because swaps are entered into with strong creditworthy counterparties and are limited to the net interest payments due/payable for the remaining life of the swap.
Foreign Currency Risk Management
Historically, the Company has used foreign exchange contracts primarily to hedge the risk that unremitted or future royalties and license fees owed to its domestic companies for the sale, or anticipated sale, of U.S.-copyrighted products abroad may be adversely affected by changes in foreign currency exchange rates. However, in connection with the Acquisition, new management is in the process of evaluating its hedging practices and alternatives and no significant foreign exchange contracts had been entered into as of September 30, 2004.
Prior to the closing of the Acquisition, Old WMG and Time Warner used foreign exchange contracts principally to manage the risk that changes in exchange rates would affect the amount of unremitted or future royalties and license fees to be received from the sale of U.S.-copyrighted products abroad.
Foreign exchange contracts were used primarily by Old WMG and Time Warner to hedge the risk that unremitted or future royalties and license fees owed to Old WMG's domestic companies for the sale, or anticipated sale, of U.S.-copyrighted products abroad might be adversely affected by changes in
F-53
foreign currency exchange rates. As part of its overall strategy to manage the level of exposure to the risk of foreign currency exchange rate fluctuations, primarily exposure to changes in the value of the British Pound, Japanese Yen and Euros, Time Warner hedged a portion of Old WMG's combined foreign currency exposures anticipated over the ensuing fifteen-month period (the "Hedging Period"). The Hedging Period for royalties and license fees covered revenues expected to be recognized over the ensuing twelve-month period; however, there was often a lag between the time that revenue was recognized and the transfer of foreign-denominated revenues back into U.S. dollars. Therefore, the Hedging Period covered a fifteen-month period.
To hedge this exposure, Time Warner used foreign exchange contracts that generally had maturities of three months to fifteen months to provide continuing coverage throughout the Hedging Period. Time Warner reimbursed, or was reimbursed by, Old WMG for contract gains and losses related to Old WMG's foreign currency exposure. At November 30, 2002, Time Warner had effectively hedged approximately 75% of Old WMG's estimated net foreign currency exposures that principally related to anticipated cash flows for royalties and license fees to be remitted to the U.S. over the ensuing Hedging Period. In connection with the anticipated closing of the Acquisition, all positions were unwound as of the end of December 2003. In connection with the discontinuance of such cash flow hedges, Old WMG recognized approximately $5 million of losses during the fourth quarter of 2003. No significant cash flow hedges were discontinued in 2002 because, at that time, it was probable that the original forecasted transactions would occur within the specified time period.
The Company records foreign exchange contracts at fair value in its balance sheet and the related gains or losses on these contracts are deferred in shareholder's equity (as a component of comprehensive income). These deferred gains and losses are recognized in income in the period in which the related royalties and license fees being hedged are received and recognized in income. However, to the extent that any of these contracts are not considered to be perfectly effective in offsetting the change in the value of the royalties and license fees being hedged, any changes in fair value relating to the ineffective portion of these contracts are immediately recognized in income. Old WMG did not recognize any significant gains or losses due to ineffective hedges in 2002. However, excluding the aforementioned losses on the discontinuance of cash flow hedges, Old WMG recognized a $694,000 gain in 2003 due to the ineffective portion of certain foreign exchange contracts. Gains and losses on foreign exchange contracts generally are included as a component of other income (expense), net, in the Company's statement of operations.
At the end of fiscal year 2003, Time Warner had contracts for the sale of $3.605 billion and the purchase of $2.016 billion of foreign currencies at fixed rates. Of Time Warner's $1.589 billion net sale contract position, approximately $49 million of foreign exchange sale contracts and $70 million of foreign exchange purchase contracts related to Old WMG's foreign currency exposure, including net contracts for the purchase of 278 thousand of Japanese Yen, 18.6 million of Euros, and 354 thousand of the British Pound.
The Company had no significant deferred net gains or losses on foreign exchange contracts at September 30, 2004 and November 30, 2003. For the years ended November 30, 2003 and 2002, Old WMG recognized $12 million and $7 million in losses, respectively, on foreign exchange contracts which were largely offset by corresponding decreases and increases, respectively, in the dollar value of foreign currency royalty payments that have been received in cash from the sale of U.S.-copyrighted products abroad.
22. Segment Information
As discussed more fully in Note 1, based on the nature of its products and services, the Company classifies its business interests into two fundamental areas: recorded music and music publishing. Information as to each of these operations is set forth below.
F-54
The Company evaluates performance based on several factors, of which the primary financial measure is operating income (loss) before non-cash depreciation of tangible assets, non-cash amortization of intangible assets and non-cash impairment charges to reduce the carrying value of goodwill and intangible assets ("OIBDA"). The Company has supplemented its analysis of OIBDA results by segment with an analysis of operating income (loss) by segment.
The accounting policies of the Company's business segments are the same as those described in the summary of significant accounting policies included elsewhere herein. The Company accounts for intersegment sales at fair value as if the sales were to third parties. While intercompany transactions are treated like third-party transactions to determine segment performance, the revenues (and corresponding expenses recognized by the segment that is counterparty to the transaction) are eliminated in consolidation or combination and, therefore, do not themselves impact consolidated or combined results.
During 2004, in connection with the Acquisition, the Company changed its methodology for allocating certain corporate costs and assets to its business segments. Accordingly, the Company has restated its operating performance and asset measures for all prior periods to reflect its new cost-allocation methodology on a consistent basis.
|
Successor |
Predecessor |
||||||||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Seven Months Ended September 30, 2004 |
Three Months Ended February 29, 2004 |
Ten Months Ended September 30, 2003 |
Years Ended November 30, |
||||||||||||
|
2003 |
2002 |
||||||||||||||
|
(Unaudited) (in millions) |
|||||||||||||||
Revenues | ||||||||||||||||
Recorded music | $ | 1,429 | $ | 630 | $ | 2,039 | $ | 2,839 | $ | 2,752 | ||||||
Music publishing | 348 | 157 | 467 | 563 | 563 | |||||||||||
Intersegment elimination | (8 | ) | (8 | ) | (19 | ) | (26 | ) | (25 | ) | ||||||
Total revenues | $ | 1,769 | $ | 779 | $ | 2,487 | $ | 3,376 | $ | 3,290 | ||||||
|
Successor |
Predecessor |
||||||||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Seven Months Ended September 30, 2004 |
Three Months Ended February 29, 2004 |
Ten Months Ended September 30, 2003 |
Years Ended November 30, |
||||||||||||
|
2003 |
2002 |
||||||||||||||
|
(Unaudited) (in millions) |
|||||||||||||||
OIBDA(a) | ||||||||||||||||
Recorded music | $ | 120 | $ | 38 | $ | 8 | $ | 116 | $ | 173 | ||||||
Music publishing | 87 | 38 | 88 | 107 | 88 | |||||||||||
Corporate expenses(b) | (49 | ) | (15 | ) | (21 | ) | (34 | ) | (54 | ) | ||||||
Total OIBDA | $ | 158 | $ | 61 | $ | 75 | $ | 189 | $ | 207 | ||||||
F-55
|
Successor |
Predecessor |
|||||||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Seven Months Ended September 30, 2004 |
Three Months Ended February 29, 2004 |
Ten Months Ended September 30, 2003 |
Years Ended November 30, |
|||||||||||
|
2003 |
2002 |
|||||||||||||
|
(Unaudited) (in millions) |
||||||||||||||
Depreciation of Property, Plant and Equipment | |||||||||||||||
Recorded music | $ | 23 | $ | 11 | $ | 51 | $ | 62 | $ | 52 | |||||
Music publishing | 3 | 1 | 6 | 7 | 6 | ||||||||||
Corporate | 10 | 4 | 14 | 17 | 9 | ||||||||||
Total depreciation | $ | 36 | $ | 16 | $ | 71 | $ | 86 | $ | 67 | |||||
|
Successor |
Predecessor |
|||||||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Seven Months Ended September 30, 2004 |
Three Months Ended February 29, 2004 |
Ten Months Ended September 30, 2003 |
Years Ended November 30, |
|||||||||||
|
2003 |
2002 |
|||||||||||||
|
(Unaudited) (in millions) |
||||||||||||||
Amortization of Intangible Assets | |||||||||||||||
Recorded music | $ | 73 | $ | 36 | $ | 138 | $ | 165 | $ | 124 | |||||
Music publishing | 31 | 20 | 63 | 77 | 58 | ||||||||||
Corporate | | | | | | ||||||||||
Total amortization | $ | 104 | $ | 56 | $ | 201 | $ | 242 | $ | 182 | |||||
|
Successor |
Predecessor |
|||||||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Seven Months Ended September 30, 2004 |
Three Months Ended February 29, 2004 |
Ten Months Ended September 30, 2003 |
Years Ended November 30, |
|||||||||||
2003 |
2002 |
||||||||||||||
|
(Unaudited) (in millions) |
||||||||||||||
Impairment of Goodwill and Other Intangibles | |||||||||||||||
Recorded music | $ | | $ | | $ | | $ | 1,019 | $ | 1,203 | |||||
Music publishing | | | | | 297 | ||||||||||
Corporate | | | | | | ||||||||||
Total impairment | $ | | $ | | $ | | $ | 1,019 | $ | 1,500 | |||||
F-56
|
Successor |
Predecessor |
||||||||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Seven Months Ended September 30, 2004 |
Three Months Ended February 29, 2004 |
Ten Months Ended September 30, 2003 |
Years Ended November 30, |
||||||||||||
2003 |
2002 |
|||||||||||||||
|
(Unaudited) (in millions) |
|||||||||||||||
Operating Income (Loss)(a) | ||||||||||||||||
Recorded music | $ | 24 | $ | (9 | ) | $ | (181 | ) | $ | (1,130 | ) | $ | (1,206 | ) | ||
Music publishing | 53 | 17 | 19 | 23 | (273 | ) | ||||||||||
Corporate | (59 | ) | (19 | ) | (35 | ) | (51 | ) | (63 | ) | ||||||
Total operating income (loss) | $ | 18 | $ | (11 | ) | $ | (197 | ) | $ | (1,158 | ) | $ | (1,542 | ) | ||
|
|
Predecessor |
||||||||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Successor |
|
|
Years Ended November 30, |
||||||||||||
|
Seven Months Ended September 30, 2004 |
Three Months Ended February 29, 2004 |
Ten Months Ended September 30, 2003 |
|||||||||||||
|
2003 |
2002 |
||||||||||||||
|
(Unaudited) |
|||||||||||||||
|
(in millions) |
|||||||||||||||
Reconciliation of OIBDA to Operating Income (Loss) | ||||||||||||||||
OIBDA | $ | 158 | $ | 61 | $ | 75 | $ | 189 | $ | 207 | ||||||
Depreciation expense | (36 | ) | (16 | ) | (71 | ) | (86 | ) | (67 | ) | ||||||
Amortization expense | (104 | ) | (56 | ) | (201 | ) | (242 | ) | (182 | ) | ||||||
Impairment of goodwill and other intangible assets | | | | (1,019 | ) | (1,500 | ) | |||||||||
Operating income (loss) | $ | 18 | $ | (11 | ) | $ | (197 | ) | $ | (1,158 | ) | $ | (1,542 | ) | ||
Transactions Affecting the Comparability of Operating Results
The comparability of OIBDA and operating income (loss) by business segment for all periods presented has been affected by certain transactions, consisting of restructuring activities in all periods, the sale of Old WMG's physical distribution assets in 2003, and significant impairment charges in 2003
F-57
and 2002 relating to Old WMG's intangible assets. The effect of such transactions that was included in OIBDA and operating income (loss) by business segment is summarized below:
|
Seven Months Ended September 30, 2004 |
||||||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Recorded Music |
Music Publishing |
Corporate |
Total |
|||||||||
|
(in millions) |
||||||||||||
Restructuring costs-related decrease in OIBDA and operating income | $ | (17 | ) | $ | (1 | ) | $ | (8 | ) | $ | (26 | ) | |
|
Ten Months Ended September 30, 2003 |
||||||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Recorded Music |
Music Publishing |
Corporate |
Total |
|||||||||
|
(Unaudited) |
||||||||||||
|
(in millions) |
||||||||||||
Restructuring costs | $ | (24 | ) | $ | (3 | ) | $ | | $ | (27 | ) | ||
Loss on sale of physical distribution assets | (12 | ) | | | (12 | ) | |||||||
Decrease in OIBDA and operating income | (36 | ) | (3 | ) | | (39 | ) | ||||||
|
Year Ended November 30, 2003 |
||||||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Recorded Music |
Music Publishing |
Corporate |
Total |
|||||||||
|
|
(in millions) |
|
||||||||||
Restructuring costs | $ | (31 | ) | $ | (3 | ) | $ | (1 | ) | $ | (35 | ) | |
Loss on sale of physical distribution assets | (12 | ) | | | (12 | ) | |||||||
Decrease in OIBDA | (43 | ) | (3 | ) | (1 | ) | (47 | ) | |||||
Impairment of goodwill and other intangible assets | (1,019 | ) | | | (1,019 | ) | |||||||
Decrease in operating income | $ | (1,062 | ) | $ | (3 | ) | $ | (1 | ) | $ | (1,066 | ) | |
|
Year Ended November 30, 2002 |
||||||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Recorded Music |
Music Publishing |
Corporate |
Total |
|||||||||
|
|
(in millions) |
|
||||||||||
Restructuring income | $ | 5 | $ | | $ | | $ | 5 | |||||
Increase in OIBDA | 5 | | | 5 | |||||||||
Impairment of goodwill and other intangible assets | (1,203 | ) | (297 | ) | | (1,500 | ) | ||||||
Decrease in operating income | $ | (1,198 | ) | $ | (297 | ) | $ | | $ | (1,495 | ) | ||
F-58
Total assets and capital expenditures by business segment are presented below:
|
September 30, 2004 |
November 30, 2003 |
||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
(in millions) |
|||||
Assets | ||||||
Recorded music | $ | 2,649 | $ | 2,749 | ||
Music publishing | 1,754 | 1,418 | ||||
Corporate(a) | 687 | 317 | ||||
Total assets | $ | 5,090 | $ | 4,484 | ||
|
|
Predecessor |
|||||||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Successor |
|
|
Years Ended November 30, |
|||||||||||
|
Seven Months Ended September 30, 2004 |
Three Months Ended February 29, 2004 |
Ten Months Ended September 30, 2003 |
||||||||||||
|
2003 |
2002 |
|||||||||||||
|
(Unaudited) |
||||||||||||||
|
(in millions) |
||||||||||||||
Capital Expenditures | |||||||||||||||
Recorded music | $ | 11 | $ | 2 | $ | 14 | $ | 29 | $ | 40 | |||||
Music publishing | 1 | | 3 | 3 | 6 | ||||||||||
Corporate | 3 | 1 | 13 | 19 | 42 | ||||||||||
Total capital expenditures | $ | 15 | $ | 3 | $ | 30 | $ | 51 | $ | 88 | |||||
F-59
Revenues and total assets relating to operations in different geographical areas are set forth below:
|
|
Predecessor |
|||||||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Successor |
|
|
Years Ended November 30, |
|||||||||||
|
Seven Months Ended September 30, 2004 |
Three Months Ended February 29, 2004 |
Ten Months Ended September 30, 2003 |
||||||||||||
|
2003 |
2002 |
|||||||||||||
|
|
|
(Unaudited) |
|
|
||||||||||
|
(in millions) |
||||||||||||||
Revenues(a) | |||||||||||||||
United States | $ | 848 | $ | 334 | $ | 1,211 | $ | 1,505 | $ | 1,537 | |||||
United Kingdom | 221 | 111 | 287 | 407 | 371 | ||||||||||
Germany | 124 | 43 | 158 | 210 | 229 | ||||||||||
Japan | 105 | 41 | 144 | 202 | 228 | ||||||||||
France | 112 | 55 | 154 | 217 | 173 | ||||||||||
Italy | 56 | 37 | 85 | 108 | 101 | ||||||||||
Other international | 303 | 158 | 448 | 727 | 651 | ||||||||||
Total revenues | $ | 1,769 | $ | 779 | $ | 2,487 | $ | 3,376 | $ | 3,290 | |||||
|
September 30, 2004 |
November 30, 2003 |
||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
(in millions) |
|||||
Assets | ||||||
United States | $ | 3,164 | $ | 3,002 | ||
United Kingdom | 512 | 307 | ||||
Germany | 269 | 174 | ||||
Japan | 252 | 91 | ||||
France | 280 | 150 | ||||
Italy | 98 | 109 | ||||
Other international | 515 | 651 | ||||
Total assets | $ | 5,090 | $ | 4,484 | ||
The Company's assets include a significant amount of intangible assets, principally related to recorded music catalog and music publishing copyrights. Historically, Old WMG did not allocate the value of these intangible assets across all of its domestic and international territories. Rather, such amounts were largely recorded centrally in the U.S. and reflected as a U.S.-based asset above as of November 30, 2003. In 2004, in connection with the Acquisition, the Company had valuation analyses prepared and allocated the value of both of its tangible and intangible assets to domestic and international territories. Accordingly, the 2004 and 2003 asset information presented above is not entirely comparable.
F-60
23. Additional Financial Information
Time Warner Accounts Receivable Securitization Facility
Prior to the Acquisition, Old WMG, through its WEA Corp. subsidiary, participated in one of Time Warner's accounts receivable securitization facilities. Such facility provided for the accelerated receipt of approximately $450 million of cash, in the aggregate, on available accounts receivable. As of November 30, 2003, Time Warner and Old WMG had no unused capacity under this facility. In connection with this securitization facility, Old WMG sold, on a revolving and nonrecourse basis, certain of its accounts receivable ("Pooled Receivables") to a qualifying Special Purpose Entity ("SPE") which, in turn, sold a percentage ownership interest in the Pooled Receivables to third-party commercial paper conduits sponsored by a financial institution. The receivables were sold to the SPE at net realizable value, after any loss due to uncollectibility was recorded by Old WMG. These securitization transactions were accounted for as a sale in accordance with FASB Statement No. 140, "Accounting for Transfers and Servicing of Financial Assets and Extinguishment of Liabilities," because Old WMG relinquished control of the receivables. Accordingly, accounts receivable sold under these facilities were excluded from receivables in the accompanying balance sheet as of November 30, 2003.
When the receivables were sold to the SPE, Old WMG recorded a retained beneficial interest in the SPE and an intercompany receivable from Time Warner representing the cash portion of the proceeds received by Time Warner on the sale for which there was no obligation to repay. The intercompany receivable from Time Warner had been reflected as a reduction of group equity in the accompanying balance sheet as of November 30, 2003. The retained beneficial interest, which was adjusted to reflect the portion of receivables that was not expected to be collectible, accrued interest at a rate that varied with prevailing market interest rates. For this reason, and because the accounts receivables underlying the retained ownership interests that were sold to the qualifying SPE were generally short-term in nature, the fair value of the retained beneficial interest approximated its carrying value at November 30, 2003. The cost of the retained interest, offset in part by the related interest income earned on the retained interest, was borne by Time Warner. The retained interest at November 30, 2003 of approximately $196 million, was classified as a component of accounts receivable in the accompanying balance sheet. In December 2003, in anticipation of the closing of the sale of Old WMG that occurred effective as of March 1, 2004, Old WMG's participation in Time Warner's securitization facility ceased. Accordingly, the receivables sold to the SPE were re-purchased by Time Warner and transferred to Old WMG in satisfaction of the retained interest and intercompany receivable.
Cash Interest and Taxes
The Company made interest payments of approximately $56 million during the seven months ended September 30, 2004 and $3 million during the three months ended February 29, 2004. The Company paid approximately $31 million and $27 million of foreign income and withholding taxes in the seven months ended September 30, 2004 and the three months ended February 29, 2004, respectively. The Company received $2 million and $1 million of foreign income tax refunds in the seven months ended September 30, 2004 and the three months ended February 29, 2004, respectively.
Old WMG made interest payments of approximately $10 million and $8 million during 2003 and 2002, respectively. Old WMG paid approximately $80 million and $55 million of foreign income and withholding taxes in the years ended November 30, 2003 and 2002, respectively, and received
F-61
approximately $8 million and $22 million of foreign income tax refunds in the years ended November 30, 2003 and 2002, respectively. Old WMG did not reimburse Time Warner and its affiliated companies for any payments of federal, state and local income taxes made during the years ended November 30, 2003 and 2002.
Noncash Transactions
Significant non-cash investing activities for the seven months ended September 30, 2004 included the allocation of the purchase price paid in connection with the Acquisition, as more fully described in Note 5. Significant non-cash investing and financing activities during the three months ended February 29, 2004 included the non-cash recapitalization of certain intercompany receivables and payables between Old WMG and Time Warner, as disclosed in the statement of shareholder's and group equity. There were no significant non-cash investing and financing activities during the year ended November 30, 2003.
Non-cash investing activities for the year ended November 30, 2002 consisted of the Word/Curb Transaction as described in Note 7. Non-cash financing activities for the year ended November 30, 2002 consisted of the reversal of net excess AOL Time Warner merger-related liabilities of WMG manufacturing subsidiaries that are not included as part of Old WMG's combined reporting group, which has been reflected as a decrease in group equity in the accompanying financial statements.
F-62
Warner Music Group
(Otherwise known as WMG Acquisition Corp.)
Supplementary Information
Condensed Consolidating Financial Statements
Warner Music Group (the "Company" or "New WMG"), otherwise known as WMG Acquisition Corp., is the successor to the interests of the recorded music and music publishing businesses of Time Warner Inc. ("Time Warner"). Such predecessor interests formerly owned by Time Warner are hereinafter referred to as "Old WMG". Effective March 1, 2004, Old WMG was acquired from Time Warner by a private consortium of investors for approximately $2.6 billion.
New WMG has issued (i) $465 million principal amount of 7.375% Senior Subordinated Notes due 2014 and (ii) 100 million Sterling principal amount of 8.125% Senior Subordinated notes due 2014 (the "Notes). The Notes are guaranteed by all of New WMG's domestic wholly-owned subsidiaries on a senior subordinated basis. These guarantees are full, unconditional, joint and several. The following condensed consolidating financial statements are presented for the information of the holders of the Notes and present the results of operations, financial position and cash flows of (i) New WMG, which is the issuer of the Notes, or its predecessor Old WMG, (ii) the guarantor subsidiaries of New WMG, (iii) the non-guarantor subsidiaries of New WMG and (iv) the eliminations necessary to arrive at the information for New WMG on a consolidated or Old WMG on a combined basis. Investments in consolidated or combined subsidiaries are presented under the equity method of accounting. There are no restrictions on New WMG's ability to obtain funds from any of its wholly owned subsidiaries through dividends, loans or advances.
F-63
Consolidating Balance Sheet
September 30, 2004
|
New WMG |
Guarantor Subsidiaries |
Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries |
Eliminations |
New WMG Consolidated |
|||||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
(in millions) |
|||||||||||||||
Assets: | ||||||||||||||||
Current assets: | ||||||||||||||||
Cash and equivalents | $ | 2 | $ | 433 | $ | 120 | $ | | $ | 555 | ||||||
Accounts receivable, net | 24 | 278 | 269 | | 571 | |||||||||||
Inventories | | 37 | 28 | | 65 | |||||||||||
Royalty advances expected to be recouped within one year | | 122 | 101 | | 223 | |||||||||||
Deferred tax assets | | 24 | 14 | | 38 | |||||||||||
Other current assets | 4 | 13 | 69 | | 86 | |||||||||||
Total current assets | 30 | 907 | 601 | | 1,538 | |||||||||||
Royalty advances expected to be recouped after one year | | 124 | 99 | | 223 | |||||||||||
Investments in and advances to (from) consolidated subsidiaries | 2,556 | 6 | (269 | ) | (2,293 | ) | | |||||||||
Intercompany notes receivable | 188 | | | (188 | ) | | ||||||||||
Investments | | 11 | (3 | ) | | 8 | ||||||||||
Property, plant and equipment | | 127 | 62 | | 189 | |||||||||||
Goodwill | | 274 | 704 | | 978 | |||||||||||
Intangible assets subject to amortization | | 1,253 | 684 | | 1,937 | |||||||||||
Intangible assets not subject to amortization | | 100 | | | 100 | |||||||||||
Other assets | 93 | 12 | 12 | | 117 | |||||||||||
Total assets | $ | 2,867 | $ | 2,814 | $ | 1,890 | $ | (2,481 | ) | $ | 5,090 | |||||
Liabilities and Shareholders' Equity | ||||||||||||||||
Current liabilities: | ||||||||||||||||
Accounts payable | $ | | $ | 116 | $ | 110 | $ | | $ | 226 | ||||||
Accrued royalties | | 511 | 492 | | 1,003 | |||||||||||
Taxes and other withholdings | | 4 | 6 | | 10 | |||||||||||
Current portion of long-term debt | 12 | | | | 12 | |||||||||||
Other current liabilities | 42 | 139 | 251 | | 432 | |||||||||||
Total current liabilities | 54 | 770 | 859 | | 1,683 | |||||||||||
Long-term debt | 1,828 | | | | 1,828 | |||||||||||
Intercompany notes payable | | | 188 | (188 | ) | | ||||||||||
Deferred tax liabilities, net | | 24 | 241 | | 265 | |||||||||||
Other noncurrent liabilities | 4 | 209 | 124 | (4 | ) | 333 | ||||||||||
Due to WMG Parent Corp. | 3 | | | | 3 | |||||||||||
Total liabilities | 1,889 | 1,003 | 1,412 | (192 | ) | 4,112 | ||||||||||
Shareholder's equity | 978 | 1,811 | 478 | (2,289 | ) | 978 | ||||||||||
Total liabilities and shareholder's equity | $ | 2,867 | $ | 2,814 | $ | 1,890 | $ | (2,481 | ) | $ | 5,090 | |||||
F-64
Combining Balance Sheet
November 30, 2003
|
New WMG(a) |
Guarantor Subsidiaries |
Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries |
Eliminations |
Old WMG Combined |
|||||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
(in millions) |
|||||||||||||||
Assets: | ||||||||||||||||
Current assets: | ||||||||||||||||
Cash and equivalents | $ | 53 | $ | 91 | $ | $ | 144 | |||||||||
Accounts receivable, net | 212 | 524 | | 736 | ||||||||||||
Inventories | 32 | 29 | | 61 | ||||||||||||
Royalty advances expected to be recouped within one year | 115 | 130 | | 245 | ||||||||||||
Deferred tax assets | 230 | | | 230 | ||||||||||||
Other current assets | 13 | 77 | | 90 | ||||||||||||
Total current assets | 655 | 851 | 1,506 | |||||||||||||
Royalty advances expected to be recouped after one year |
149 |
117 |
|
266 |
||||||||||||
Investments in and advances to consolidated subsidiaries | 1,093 | | (1,093 | ) | | |||||||||||
Investments | 6 | 4 | | 10 | ||||||||||||
Property, plant and equipment | 153 | 68 | | 221 | ||||||||||||
Intangible assets subject to amortization | 1,997 | 434 | | 2,431 | ||||||||||||
Intangible assets not subject to amortization | 24 | | | 24 | ||||||||||||
Other assets | 12 | 14 | | 26 | ||||||||||||
Total assets | $ | 4,089 | $ | 1,488 | $ | (1,093 | ) | $ | 4,484 | |||||||
Liabilities and Group Equity: |
||||||||||||||||
Current liabilities: | ||||||||||||||||
Accounts payable | $ | 150 | $ | 135 | $ | $ | 285 | |||||||||
Accrued royalties | 445 | 514 | | 959 | ||||||||||||
Taxes and other withholdings, including to Time Warner affiliated companies | 6 | 28 | | 34 | ||||||||||||
Short-term debt | | | | | ||||||||||||
Other current liabilities | 149 | 218 | | 367 | ||||||||||||
Total current liabilities | 750 | 895 | 1,645 | |||||||||||||
Long-term debt |
|
120 |
|
120 |
||||||||||||
Deferred tax liabilities, net | 729 | 223 | | 952 | ||||||||||||
Other noncurrent liabilities | 122 | 58 | | 180 | ||||||||||||
Total liabilities | 1,601 | 1,296 | 2,897 | |||||||||||||
Group equity: | ||||||||||||||||
Group equity | 2,807 | (428 | ) | (32 | ) | 2,347 | ||||||||||
Due from Time Warner affiliated companies, net | (319 | ) | (434 | ) | (7 | ) | (760 | ) | ||||||||
Intercompany payables | | 1,054 | (1,054 | ) | | |||||||||||
Total group equity | 2,488 | 192 | (1,093 | ) | 1,587 | |||||||||||
Total liabilities and group equity | $ | 4,089 | $ | 1,488 | $ | (1,093 | ) | $ | 4,484 | |||||||
F-65
Consolidating Statement of Operations
For The Seven Months Ended September 30, 2004
|
New WMG |
Guarantor Subsidiaries |
Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries |
Eliminations |
New WMG Consolidated |
|||||||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
(in millions) |
|||||||||||||||||
Revenues | $ | | $ | 913 | $ | 1,060 | $ | (204 | ) | $ | 1,769 | |||||||
Costs and expenses: | ||||||||||||||||||
Cost of revenues | | (505 | ) | (643 | ) | 204 | (944 | ) | ||||||||||
Selling, general and administrative expenses | (6 | ) | (335 | ) | (336 | ) | | (677 | ) | |||||||||
Amortization of intangible assets | | (75 | ) | (29 | ) | | (104 | ) | ||||||||||
Restructuring (costs) income, net | | (19 | ) | (7 | ) | | (26 | ) | ||||||||||
Total costs and expenses | (6 | ) | (934 | ) | (1,015 | ) | 204 | (1,751 | ) | |||||||||
Operating (loss) income | (6 | ) | (21 | ) | 45 | | 18 | |||||||||||
Interest expense, net | (58 | ) | (12 | ) | (10 | ) | | (80 | ) | |||||||||
Equity in the losses of equity-method investees, net | | (1 | ) | (1 | ) | | (2 | ) | ||||||||||
Equity (losses) gains from consolidated subsidiaries | (1 | ) | 20 | | (19 | ) | | |||||||||||
Loss on repayment of bridge loan | (6 | ) | | | | (6 | ) | |||||||||||
Other expense, net | (3 | ) | | (1 | ) | | (4 | ) | ||||||||||
(Loss) income before income taxes |
(74 |
) |
(14 |
) |
33 |
(19 |
) |
(74 |
) |
|||||||||
Income tax (expense) benefit | (30 | ) | (21 | ) | (23 | ) | 44 | (30 | ) | |||||||||
Net (loss) income | $ | (104 | ) | $ | (35 | ) | $ | 10 | $ | 25 | $ | (104 | ) | |||||
F-66
Combining Statement of Operations
For The Three Months Ended February 29, 2004
|
New WMG(a) |
Guarantor Subsidiaries |
Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries |
Eliminations |
Old WMG Combined |
|||||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
(in millions) |
|||||||||||||||
Revenues | $ | 420 | $ | 500 | $ | (141 | ) | $ | 779 | |||||||
Costs and expenses: | ||||||||||||||||
Cost of revenues | (246 | ) | (310 | ) | 141 | (415 | ) | |||||||||
Selling, general and administrative expenses | (150 | ) | (169 | ) | | (319 | ) | |||||||||
Amortization of intangible assets | (46 | ) | (10 | ) | | (56 | ) | |||||||||
Total costs and expenses | (442 | ) | (489 | ) | 141 | (790 | ) | |||||||||
Operating (loss) income | (22 | ) | 11 | | (11 | ) | ||||||||||
Interest expense, net | (1 | ) | (1 | ) | | (2 | ) | |||||||||
Equity in the losses of equity-method investees, net | (1 | ) | (1 | ) | | (2 | ) | |||||||||
Equity losses from consolidated subsidiaries | (13 | ) | | 13 | | |||||||||||
(Loss) income before income taxes | (37 | ) | 9 | 13 | (15 | ) | ||||||||||
Income tax (expense) benefit | (11 | ) | (13 | ) | 7 | (17 | ) | |||||||||
Net loss | $ | (48 | ) | $ | (4 | ) | 20 | $ | (32 | ) | ||||||
F-67
Combining Statement of Operations
For The Ten Months Ended September 30, 2003 (unaudited)
|
New WMG(a) |
Guarantor Subsidiaries |
Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries |
Eliminations |
Old WMG Combined |
||||||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
(in millions) |
||||||||||||||||
Revenues | $ | 1,329 | $ | 1,438 | $ | (280 | ) | $ | 2,487 | ||||||||
Costs and expenses: | |||||||||||||||||
Cost of revenues | (809 | ) | (920 | ) | 280 | (1,449 | ) | ||||||||||
Selling, general and administrative expenses | (504 | ) | (491 | ) | | (995 | ) | ||||||||||
Amortization of intangible assets | (173 | ) | (28 | ) | | (201 | ) | ||||||||||
Loss on sale of physical distribution assets | (12 | ) | | | (12 | ) | |||||||||||
Restructuring (costs) income, net | (15 | ) | (12 | ) | | (27 | ) | ||||||||||
Total costs and expenses | (1,513 | ) | (1,451 | ) | 280 | (2,684 | ) | ||||||||||
Operating loss | (184 | ) | (13 | ) | | (197 | ) | ||||||||||
Interest expense, net | (5 | ) | | | (5 | ) | |||||||||||
Net investment-related losses | | (17 | ) | | (17 | ) | |||||||||||
Equity in the losses of equity-method investees, net | (21 | ) | (11 | ) | | (32 | ) | ||||||||||
Equity losses from consolidated subsidiaries | (38 | ) | | 38 | | ||||||||||||
Deal-related transactions and other costs | (7 | ) | | | (7 | ) | |||||||||||
Other expense, net | (9 | ) | (1 | ) | | (10 | ) | ||||||||||
Loss before income taxes | (264 | ) | (42 | ) | 38 | (268 | ) | ||||||||||
Income tax benefit (expense) | 28 | (55 | ) | 56 | 29 | ||||||||||||
Net loss | $ | (236 | ) | $ | (97 | ) | $ | 94 | $ | (239 | ) | ||||||
F-68
Combining Statement of Operations
For The Year Ended November 30, 2003
|
New WMG(a) |
Guarantor Subsidiaries |
Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries |
Eliminations |
Old WMG Combined |
|||||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
(in millions) |
|||||||||||||||
Revenues | $ | 1,769 | $ | 1,964 | $ | (357 | ) | $ | 3,376 | |||||||
Costs and expenses: | ||||||||||||||||
Cost of revenues | (1,065 | ) | (1,232 | ) | 357 | (1,940 | ) | |||||||||
Selling, general and administrative expenses | (644 | ) | (642 | ) | | (1,286 | ) | |||||||||
Impairment of goodwill and other intangible assets | (1,014 | ) | (5 | ) | | (1,019 | ) | |||||||||
Amortization of intangible assets | (207 | ) | (35 | ) | | (242 | ) | |||||||||
Loss on sale of physical distribution assets | (12 | ) | | | (12 | ) | ||||||||||
Restructuring (costs) income, net | (22 | ) | (13 | ) | | (35 | ) | |||||||||
Total costs and expenses | (2,964 | ) | (1,927 | ) | 357 | (4,534 | ) | |||||||||
Operating (loss) income | (1,195 | ) | 37 | | (1,158 | ) | ||||||||||
Interest expense, net | (2 | ) | (3 | ) | | (5 | ) | |||||||||
Net investment-related losses | | (26 | ) | | (26 | ) | ||||||||||
Equity in the losses of equity-method investees, net | (23 | ) | (18 | ) | | (41 | ) | |||||||||
Equity losses from consolidated subsidiaries | (42 | ) | | 42 | | |||||||||||
Deal-related transaction and other costs | (70 | ) | | | (70 | ) | ||||||||||
Other expense, net | (14 | ) | (3 | ) | | (17 | ) | |||||||||
Loss before income taxes | (1,346 | ) | (13 | ) | 42 | (1,317 | ) | |||||||||
Income tax expense | (36 | ) | (147 | ) | 147 | (36 | ) | |||||||||
Net loss | $ | (1,382 | ) | $ | (160 | ) | $ | 189 | $ | (1,353 | ) | |||||
F-69
Combining Statement of Operations
For The Year Ended November 30, 2002
|
New WMG(a) |
Guarantor Subsidiaries |
Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries |
Eliminations |
Old WMG Combined |
|||||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
(in millions) |
|||||||||||||||
Revenues | $ | 1,747 | $ | 1,789 | $ | (246 | ) | $ | 3,290 | |||||||
Costs and expenses: | ||||||||||||||||
Cost of revenues | (1,027 | ) | (1,092 | ) | 246 | (1,873 | ) | |||||||||
Selling, general and administrative expenses | (693 | ) | (589 | ) | | (1,282 | ) | |||||||||
Impairment of goodwill and other intangible assets | (1,223 | ) | (277 | ) | | (1,500 | ) | |||||||||
Amortization of intangible assets | (148 | ) | (34 | ) | | (182 | ) | |||||||||
Restructuring (costs) income, net | 5 | | | 5 | ||||||||||||
Total costs and expenses | (3,086 | ) | (1,992 | ) | 246 | (4,832 | ) | |||||||||
Operating loss | (1,339 | ) | (203 | ) | | (1,542 | ) | |||||||||
Interest expense, net | (4 | ) | (19 | ) | | (23 | ) | |||||||||
Net investment-related gains (losses) | (15 | ) | 57 | | 42 | |||||||||||
Equity in the losses of equity-method investees, net | (33 | ) | (9 | ) | | (42 | ) | |||||||||
Equity losses form consolidated subsidiaries | (154 | ) | | 154 | | |||||||||||
Other income (expense), net | (14 | ) | 9 | | (5 | ) | ||||||||||
Loss before income taxes and cumulative effect of accounting change | (1,559 | ) | (165 | ) | 154 | (1,570 | ) | |||||||||
Income tax benefit (expense) | 409 | (36 | ) | (33 | ) | 340 | ||||||||||
Loss before cumulative effect of accounting change | (1,150 | ) | (201 | ) | 121 | (1,230 | ) | |||||||||
Cumulative effect of accounting change | (3,672 | ) | (1,945 | ) | 821 | (4,796 | ) | |||||||||
Net loss | $ | (4,822 | ) | $ | (2,146 | ) | $ | 942 | $ | (6,026 | ) | |||||
F-70
Consolidating Statement of Cash Flows
For The Seven Months Ended September 30, 2004
|
New WMG |
Guarantor Subsidiaries |
Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries |
Eliminations |
New WMG Consolidated |
||||||||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
(in millions) |
||||||||||||||||||
Cash flows from operating activities: | |||||||||||||||||||
Net loss | $ | (104 | ) | $ | (35 | ) | $ | 10 | $ | 25 | $ | (104 | ) | ||||||
Adjustments to reconcile net loss to net cash provided by (used in) operating activities: | |||||||||||||||||||
Depreciation and amortization | | 103 | 37 | 140 | |||||||||||||||
Deferred taxes | | | 8 | 8 | |||||||||||||||
Loss on repayment of bridge loan | 6 | | | | 6 | ||||||||||||||
Non-cash interest expense | 6 | 13 | | | 19 | ||||||||||||||
Equity in the losses of equity-method investees, including distributions | | | 3 | 3 | |||||||||||||||
Equity losses (gains) from consolidated subsidiaries | 31 | (6 | ) | | (25 | ) | | ||||||||||||
Changes in operating assets and liabilities: | |||||||||||||||||||
Accounts receivable | (24 | ) | (35 | ) | 26 | | (33 | ) | |||||||||||
Inventories | | (6 | ) | (4 | ) | | (10 | ) | |||||||||||
Royalty advances | | 18 | 59 | | 77 | ||||||||||||||
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities | 46 | 18 | (87 | ) | | (23 | ) | ||||||||||||
Other balance sheet changes | (1 | ) | (35 | ) | 39 | | 3 | ||||||||||||
Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities | (40 | ) | 35 | 91 | | 86 | |||||||||||||
Cash flows from investing activities: | |||||||||||||||||||
Acquisition of Old WMG | (2,638 | ) | | | | (2,638 | ) | ||||||||||||
Investments and acquisitions | | (7 | ) | (3 | ) | | (10 | ) | |||||||||||
Investment proceeds | | | | | | ||||||||||||||
Capital expenditures | | (6 | ) | (9 | ) | | (15 | ) | |||||||||||
Net cash used in investing activities | (2,638 | ) | (13 | ) | (12 | ) | | (2,663 | ) | ||||||||||
Cash flows from financing activities: | |||||||||||||||||||
Borrowings | 2,348 | | | | 2,348 | ||||||||||||||
Financing costs of borrowings | (99 | ) | | | | (99 | ) | ||||||||||||
Debt repayments | (506 | ) | | (125 | ) | | (631 | ) | |||||||||||
Capital contributions | 1,250 | | | | 1,250 | ||||||||||||||
Increase in amounts due to WMG Parent Corp. | 3 | | | | 3 | ||||||||||||||
Intercompany notes | (188 | ) | | 188 | | | |||||||||||||
Dividends paid | (210 | ) | | | | (210 | ) | ||||||||||||
Change in intercompany | 82 | 382 | (464 | ) | | | |||||||||||||
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities | 2,680 | 382 | (401 | ) | | 2,661 | |||||||||||||
Effect of foreign currency exchange rate changes on cash | | | | | | ||||||||||||||
Net increase in cash and equivalents | 2 | 404 | (322 | ) | | 84 | |||||||||||||
Cash and equivalents at beginning of period | | 29 | 442 | | 471 | ||||||||||||||
Cash and equivalents at end of period | $ | 2 | $ | 433 | $ | 120 | $ | | $ | 555 | |||||||||
F-71
Combining Statement of Cash Flows
For The Three Months Ended February 29, 2004
|
New WMG(a) |
Guarantor Subsidiaries |
Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries |
Eliminations |
Old WMG Consolidated |
|||||||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
(in millions) |
|||||||||||||||||
Cash flows from operating activities: | ||||||||||||||||||
Net loss | $ | (48 | ) | $ | (4 | ) | $ | 20 | $ | (32 | ) | |||||||
Adjustments to reconcile net loss to net cash provided by (used in) operating activities: | ||||||||||||||||||
Depreciation and amortization | 58 | 14 | | 72 | ||||||||||||||
Deferred taxes | (2 | ) | (2 | ) | | (4 | ) | |||||||||||
Non-cash interest expense | 2 | | | 2 | ||||||||||||||
Equity in the losses of equity-method investees, including distributions | 1 | 1 | | 2 | ||||||||||||||
Equity losses from consolidated subsidiaries | 20 | | (20 | ) | | |||||||||||||
Changes in operating assets and liabilities: | ||||||||||||||||||
Accounts receivable | 158 | 229 | | 387 | ||||||||||||||
Inventories | | 6 | | 6 | ||||||||||||||
Royalty advances | | (4 | ) | | (4 | ) | ||||||||||||
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities | 18 | (127 | ) | | (109 | ) | ||||||||||||
Other balance sheet changes | 9 | (8 | ) | | 1 | |||||||||||||
Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities | 216 | 105 | | 321 | ||||||||||||||
Cash flows from investing activities: | ||||||||||||||||||
Investments and acquisitions | | (2 | ) | | (2 | ) | ||||||||||||
Investment proceeds | | 19 | | 19 | ||||||||||||||
Capital expenditures | (1 | ) | (2 | ) | | (3 | ) | |||||||||||
Net cash (used in) provided by investing activities | (1 | ) | 15 | | 14 | |||||||||||||
Cash flows from financing activities: | ||||||||||||||||||
Borrowings | | | | | ||||||||||||||
Debt repayments | | (124 | ) | | (124 | ) | ||||||||||||
Capital contributions | 224 | 457 | (419 | ) | 262 | |||||||||||||
Decrease (increase) in amounts due from Time Warner-affiliated companies | (261 | ) | 485 | (30 | ) | 194 | ||||||||||||
Dividends paid | (202 | ) | (589 | ) | 449 | (342 | ) | |||||||||||
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities | (239 | ) | 229 | | (10 | ) | ||||||||||||
Effect of foreign currency exchange rate changes on cash | | 2 | | 2 | ||||||||||||||
Net increase in cash and equivalents | (24 | ) | 351 | | 327 | |||||||||||||
Cash and equivalents at beginning of period | 53 | 91 | | 144 | ||||||||||||||
Cash and equivalents at end of period | $ | 29 | $ | 442 | $ | | $ | 471 | ||||||||||
F-72
Combining Statement of Cash Flows
For The Ten Months Ended September 30, 2003 (unaudited)
|
New WMG(a) |
Guarantor Subsidiaries |
Non- Guarantor Subsidiaries |
Eliminations |
Old WMG Combined |
||||||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
|
|
(in millions) |
|
|
||||||||||||
Cash flows from operating activities: |
|||||||||||||||||
Net loss | $ | (236 | ) | $ | (97 | ) | $ | 94 | $ | (239 | ) | ||||||
Adjustments to reconcile net loss to net cash provided by (used in) operating activities: | |||||||||||||||||
Depreciation and amortization | 229 | 43 | | 272 | |||||||||||||
Deferred taxes | (106 | ) | 27 | | (79 | ) | |||||||||||
Loss on sale of physical distribution assets | 12 | | | 12 | |||||||||||||
Non-cash interest expense | 10 | | | 10 | |||||||||||||
Net investment-related losses (gains) | | 17 | | 17 | |||||||||||||
Equity in the losses of equity-method investees, including distributions | 21 | 14 | | 35 | |||||||||||||
Equity losses from consolidated subsidiaries | 94 | | (94 | ) | | ||||||||||||
Changes in operating assets and liabilities: | |||||||||||||||||
Accounts receivable | 114 | 161 | | 275 | |||||||||||||
Inventories | 14 | 10 | | 24 | |||||||||||||
Royalty advances | 45 | (7 | ) | | 38 | ||||||||||||
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities | (119 | ) | (38 | ) | 41 | (116 | ) | ||||||||||
Other balance sheet changes | 31 | (25 | ) | 2 | 8 | ||||||||||||
Net cash provided by operating activities | 109 | 105 | 43 | 257 | |||||||||||||
Cash flows from investing activities: |
|||||||||||||||||
Investments and acquisitions | (15 | ) | (28 | ) | | (43 | ) | ||||||||||
Capital expenditures | (24 | ) | (6 | ) | | (30 | ) | ||||||||||
Net cash used in investing activities | (39 | ) | (34 | ) | | (73 | ) | ||||||||||
Cash flows from financing activities: |
|||||||||||||||||
Borrowings | | 114 | | 114 | |||||||||||||
Debt repayments | (101 | ) | | | (101 | ) | |||||||||||
Capital contributions | 132 | | | 132 | |||||||||||||
Decrease (increase) in amounts due from Time Warner-affiliated companies | (103 | ) | (190 | ) | | (293 | ) | ||||||||||
Principal payments on capital leases | (2 | ) | (1 | ) | | (3 | ) | ||||||||||
Net cash used in financing activities | (74 | ) | (77 | ) | | (151 | ) | ||||||||||
Effect of foreign currency exchange rate changes on cash | | 6 | | 6 | |||||||||||||
Net increase in cash and equivalents | (4 | ) | | 43 | 39 | ||||||||||||
Cash and equivalents at beginning of period | 7 | 77 | (43 | ) | 41 | ||||||||||||
Cash and equivalents at end of period | $ | 3 | $ | 77 | $ | | $ | 80 | |||||||||
F-73
Combining Statement of Cash Flows
For The Year Ended November 30, 2003
|
New WMG(a) |
Guarantor Subsidiaries |
Non- Guarantor Subsidiaries |
Eliminations |
Old WMG Combined |
||||||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
|
|
(in millions) |
|
|
||||||||||||
Cash flows from operating activities: |
|||||||||||||||||
Net loss | $ | (1,382 | ) | $ | (160 | ) | $ | 189 | $ | (1,353 | ) | ||||||
Adjustments to reconcile net loss to net cash provided by (used in) operating activities: | |||||||||||||||||
Impairment of goodwill and other intangible assets | 1,014 | 5 | | 1,019 | |||||||||||||
Depreciation and amortization | 275 | 53 | | 328 | |||||||||||||
Deferred taxes | (129 | ) | 110 | | (19 | ) | |||||||||||
Loss on sale of physical distribution assets | 12 | | | 12 | |||||||||||||
Non-cash interest expense | 11 | | | 11 | |||||||||||||
Net investment-related losses (gains) | | 26 | | 26 | |||||||||||||
Equity in the losses of equity-method investees, including distributions | 23 | 21 | | 44 | |||||||||||||
Equity losses from consolidated subsidiaries | 189 | | (189 | ) | | ||||||||||||
Changes in operating assets and liabilities: | |||||||||||||||||
Accounts receivable | (24 | ) | (97 | ) | | (121 | ) | ||||||||||
Inventories | 11 | 1 | | 12 | |||||||||||||
Royalty advances | 124 | (13 | ) | | 111 | ||||||||||||
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities | (90 | ) | 209 | 50 | 169 | ||||||||||||
Other balance sheet changes | (19 | ) | 65 | (7 | ) | 39 | |||||||||||
Net cash provided by operating activities | 15 | 220 | 43 | 278 | |||||||||||||
Cash flows from investing activities: |
|||||||||||||||||
Investments and acquisitions | (13 | ) | (39 | ) | | (52 | ) | ||||||||||
Investment proceeds | 38 | | | 38 | |||||||||||||
Capital expenditures | (41 | ) | (10 | ) | | (51 | ) | ||||||||||
Net cash used in investing activities | (16 | ) | (49 | ) | | (65 | ) | ||||||||||
Cash flows from financing activities: |
|||||||||||||||||
Borrowings | | 114 | | 114 | |||||||||||||
Debt repayments | (101 | ) | | | (101 | ) | |||||||||||
Capital contributions | 132 | | | 132 | |||||||||||||
Decrease (increase) in amounts due from Time Warner-affiliated companies | 18 | (213 | ) | | (195 | ) | |||||||||||
Dividends paid | | (68 | ) | | (68 | ) | |||||||||||
Principal payments on capital leases | (2 | ) | (1 | ) | | (3 | ) | ||||||||||
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities | 47 | (168 | ) | | (121 | ) | |||||||||||
Effect of foreign currency exchange rate changes on cash | | 11 | | 11 | |||||||||||||
Net increase in cash and equivalents | 46 | 14 | 43 | 103 | |||||||||||||
Cash and equivalents at beginning of period | 7 | 77 | (43 | ) | 41 | ||||||||||||
Cash and equivalents at end of period | 53 | 91 | | 144 | |||||||||||||
F-74
Warner Music Group
(Otherwise known as WMG Acquisition Corp.)
Supplementary Information
Condensed Consolidating Financial Statements
Combining Statement of Cash Flows
For The Year Ended November 30, 2002
|
New WMG(a) |
Guarantor Subsidiaries |
Non- Guarantor Subsidiaries |
Eliminations |
Old WMG Combined |
||||||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
(in millions) |
||||||||||||||||
Cash flows from operating activities: |
|||||||||||||||||
Net loss | $ | (4,822 | ) | $ | (2,146 | ) | $ | 942 | $ | (6,026 | ) | ||||||
Adjustments to reconcile net loss to net cash provided by (used in) operating activities: | |||||||||||||||||
Cumulative effect of accounting change | 3,672 | 1,945 | (821 | ) | 4,796 | ||||||||||||
Impairment of goodwill and other intangible assets | 1,223 | 277 | | 1,500 | |||||||||||||
Depreciation and amortization | 199 | 50 | | 249 | |||||||||||||
Deferred taxes | (396 | ) | 2 | | (394 | ) | |||||||||||
Non-cash interest expense | 17 | | | 17 | |||||||||||||
Net investment-related losses (gains) | 15 | (57 | ) | | (42 | ) | |||||||||||
Equity in the losses of equity-method investees, including distributions | 34 | 9 | | 43 | |||||||||||||
Equity losses from consolidated subsidiaries | 188 | | (188 | ) | | ||||||||||||
Changes in operating assets and liabilities: | |||||||||||||||||
Accounts receivable | 79 | 11 | | 90 | |||||||||||||
Inventories | 12 | 5 | | 17 | |||||||||||||
Royalty advances | 7 | (37 | ) | | (30 | ) | |||||||||||
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities | (195 | ) | 26 | (5 | ) | (174 | ) | ||||||||||
Other balance sheet changes | (90 | ) | (17 | ) | 48 | (59 | ) | ||||||||||
Net cash (used in) provided by operating activities | (57 | ) | 68 | (24 | ) | (13 | ) | ||||||||||
Cash flows from investing activities: |
|||||||||||||||||
Investments and acquisitions | (50 | ) | (1,052 | ) | | (1,102 | ) | ||||||||||
Investment proceeds | | 825 | | 825 | |||||||||||||
Capital expenditures | (75 | ) | (13 | ) | | (88 | ) | ||||||||||
Net cash used in investing activities | (125 | ) | (240 | ) | | (365 | ) | ||||||||||
Cash flows from financing activities: |
|||||||||||||||||
Borrowings | | | | | |||||||||||||
Debt repayments | | | | | |||||||||||||
Capital contributions | | | | | |||||||||||||
Decrease (increase) in amounts due from Time Warner-affiliated companies | 165 | 258 | (7 | ) | 416 | ||||||||||||
Dividends paid | 24 | (55 | ) | | (31 | ) | |||||||||||
Principal payments on capital leases | | | | | |||||||||||||
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities | 189 | 203 | (7 | ) | 385 | ||||||||||||
Effect of foreign currency exchange rate changes on cash | | | | | |||||||||||||
Net increase in cash and equivalents | 7 | 31 | (31 | ) | 7 | ||||||||||||
Cash and equivalents at beginning of period | | 46 | (12 | ) | 34 | ||||||||||||
Cash and equivalents at end of period | $ | 7 | $ | 77 | $ | (43 | ) | $ | 41 | ||||||||
F-75
Warner Music Group
(Otherwise known as WMG Acquisition Corp.)
Schedule IIValuation and Qualifying Accounts
Seven Months Ended September 30, 2004,
Three Months Ended February 29, 2004 and
Years Ended November 30, 2003
and 2002
Description |
Balance at Beginning of Period |
Additions Charged to Cost and Expenses |
Deductions |
Balance at End of Period |
|||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
(in millions) |
||||||||||||
Seven Months Ended September 30, 2004 | |||||||||||||
Reserve deducted from acounts receivable | |||||||||||||
Allowance for doubtful accounts | $ | 69 | $ | 7 | $ | (18 | ) | $ | 58 | ||||
Reserves for sales returns and allowances | 200 | 278 | (314 | ) | 164 | ||||||||
Allowance for deferred tax asset | | 293 | | 293 | |||||||||
$ | 269 | $ | 578 | $ | (332 | ) | $ | 515 | |||||
Three Months Ended February 29, 2004 |
|||||||||||||
Reserve deducted from acounts receivable | |||||||||||||
Allowance for doubtful accounts | $ | 67 | $ | 2 | $ | | $ | 69 | |||||
Reserves for sales returns and allowances | 224 | 128 | (152 | ) | 200 | ||||||||
Allowance for deferred tax asset | | | | | |||||||||
$ | 291 | $ | 130 | $ | (152 | ) | $ | 269 | |||||
Year Ended November 30, 2003 |
|||||||||||||
Reserve deducted from acounts receivable | |||||||||||||
Allowance for doubtful accounts | $ | 68 | $ | 9 | $ | (10 | ) | $ | 67 | ||||
Reserves for sales returns and allowances | 213 | 585 | (574 | ) | 224 | ||||||||
Allowance for deferred tax asset | 21 | | (21 | ) | | ||||||||
$ | 302 | $ | 594 | $ | (605 | ) | $ | 291 | |||||
Year Ended November 30, 2002 |
|||||||||||||
Reserve deducted from acounts receivable | |||||||||||||
Allowance for doubtful accounts | $ | 99 | $ | 17 | $ | (48 | ) | $ | 68 | ||||
Reserves for sales returns and allowances | 233 | 526 | (546 | ) | 213 | ||||||||
Allowance for deferred tax asset | | 21 | | 21 | |||||||||
$ | 332 | $ | 564 | $ | (594 | ) | $ | 302 | |||||
F-76
$465,000,000 aggregate principal amount of 73/8% Senior Subordinated Notes due 2014, which have been registered under the Securities Act of 1933 for any and all outstanding 73/8% Senior Subordinated Notes due 2014
£100,000,000 aggregate principal amount of 81/8% Senior Subordinated Notes due 2014, which have been registered under the Securities Act of 1933 for any and all outstanding 81/8% Senior Subordinated Notes due 2014
Until the date that is 90 days after the date of this prospectus, all dealers that effect transactions in these securities, whether or not participating in this offering, may be required to deliver a prospectus. This is in addition to the dealers' obligation to deliver a prospectus when acting as underwriters with respect to their unsold allotments or subscriptions.
February 10, 2005
PART II
INFORMATION NOT REQUIRED IN PROSPECTUS
Item 20. Indemnification of Directors and Officers.
Warner Music Group is a Delaware corporation. Section 145 of the Delaware General Corporation Law of the State of Delaware (the "DGCL") grants each corporation organized thereunder the power to indemnify any person who is or was a director, officer, employee or agent of a corporation or enterprise, against expenses, including attorneys' fees, judgments, fines and amounts paid in settlement actually and reasonably incurred by him in connection with any threatened, pending or completed action, suit or proceeding, whether civil, criminal, administrative or investigative, other than an action by or in the right of the corporation, by reason of being or having been in any such capacity, if he acted in good faith in a manner reasonably believed to be in or not opposed to the best interests of the corporation, and, with respect to any criminal action or proceeding, had no reasonable cause to believe his conduct was unlawful.
Section 102(b)(7) of the DGCL enables a corporation in its certificate of incorporation or an amendment thereto validly approved by stockholders to limit or eliminate the personal liability of the members of its board of directors for violations of the directors' fiduciary duty of care, except (i) for any breach of the director's duty of loyalty to the corporation or its stockholders, (ii) for acts or omissions not in good faith or which involve intentional misconduct or a knowing violation of law, (iii) pursuant to Section 174 of the DGCL (providing for liability of directors for unlawful payment of dividends or unlawful stock purchases or redemptions) or (iv) for any transaction from which a director derived an improper personal benefit.
Section 3.16 of Warner Music Group's Amended and Restated By-laws (filed as Exhibit 3.195) provide that a member of the board of directors, or a member of any committee designated by the board of directors shall, in the performance of his or her duties, be fully protected in relying in good faith upon the records of Warner Music Group and upon such information, opinions, reports or statements presented to Warner Music Group by any of Warner Music Group's officers, employees, agents, committees, or by any other person as to matters the member reasonably believes are within such other person's or persons' professional or expert competence, and who has been selected with reasonable care by or on behalf of Warner Music Group.
Article THIRD, paragraph 7 of Warner Music Group's Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation (filed as Exhibit 3.194) provides that a director of Warner Music Group shall not be liable to Warner Music Group or its stockholders for monetary damages for breach of fiduciary duty as a director, except to the extent that exculpation from liability is not permitted under the DGCL. No amendment or repeal of this paragraph 7 shall apply to or have any effect on the liability or alleged liability of any director of Warner Music Group for or with respect to any acts or omissions of such director occurring prior to such amendment or repeal.
Article THIRD, paragraph 8 provides that to the maximum extent permitted from time to time under the law of the State of Delaware, Warner Music Group renounces any interest or expectancy of Warner Music Group in, or in being offered an opportunity to participate in business opportunities that are from time to time presented to its officers, directors or stockholders or the affiliates of the foregoing, other than those officers, directors, stockholders or affiliates who are employees of Warner Music Group. No amendment or repeal of this paragraph 8 shall apply to or have any effect on the liability or alleged liability of any such officer, director, stockholder or affiliate for or with respect to any business opportunities of which such officer, director, stockholder or affiliate becomes aware prior to such amendment or repeal.
Article THIRD, paragraph 9 provides that Warner Music Group shall, to the maximum extent permitted from time to time under the law of the State of Delaware, indemnify and upon request shall
II-1
advance expenses to any person who is or was a party or is threatened to be made a party to any threatened, pending or completed action, suit, proceeding or claim, whether civil, criminal, administrative or investigative, by reason of the fact that such person is or was or has agreed to be a director or officer of Warner Music Group or while a director or officer is or was serving at the request of Warner Music Group as a director, officer, partner, member, trustee, employee or agent of any corporation, partnership, joint venture, trust or other enterprise, including service with respect to employee benefit plans, against expenses (including attorney's fees and expenses), judgments, fries, penalties and amounts paid in settlement incurred in connection with the investigation, preparation to defend or defense of such action, suit, proceeding or claim; provided, however, that the foregoing shall not require Warner Music Group to indemnify or advance expenses to any person in connection with any action, suit, proceeding, claim or counterclaim initiated by or on behalf of such person. Such indemnification and advancement of expenses shall not be exclusive of other indemnification rights arising as a matter of law, under any by-law, agreement, vote of directors or stockholders or otherwise, both as to action in such person's official capacity and as to action in another capacity while holding such office, and shall inure to the benefit of the heirs and legal representatives of such person. Any person seeking indemnification under this paragraph 9 shall be deemed to have met the standard of conduct required for such indemnification unless the contrary shall be established. Any repeal or modification of the foregoing provisions of this paragraph 9 shall not adversely affect any right or protection of a director or officer of Warner Music Group with respect to any acts or omissions of such director or officer occurring prior to such repeal or modification.
Article THIRD, paragraph 9 also provides that Warner Music Group shall have the power to purchase and maintain, at its expense, insurance on behalf of any person who is or was a director, officer, employee or agent of Warner Music Group, or is or was serving at the request of Warner Music Group as a director, officer, employee or agent of another corporation, partnership, joint venture, trust or other enterprise, against any expense, liability or loss asserted against such Person and incurred by such Person in any such capacity, or arising out of such Person's status as such, whether or not Warner Music Group would have the power to indemnify such person against such expense, liability or loss under the DCCL or the terms of the Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation.
Warner Music Group has also obtained officers' and directors liability insurance which insures against liabilities that officers and directors of the Warner Music Group may, in such capacities, incur.
II-2
Item 21. Exhibits and Financial Statement Schedules.
(a) Exhibits
Exhibit No. |
Description |
|
---|---|---|
2.1** | Purchase Agreement, dated as of November 24, 2003 between Time Warner Inc. and WMG Acquisition Corp., as amended | |
3.1** | Certificate of Incorporation of A. P. Schmidt Co. | |
3.2** | By-laws of A. P. Schmidt Co. | |
3.3** | Certificate of Formation of Atlantic/143 L.L.C., as amended | |
3.4** | Limited Liability Company Agreement of Atlantic/143 L.L.C. | |
3.5** | Certificate of Incorporation of Atlantic/MR Ventures Inc., as amended | |
3.6** | By-laws of Atlantic/MR Ventures Inc. | |
3.7** | Certificate of Incorporation of Atlantic/MR II Inc., as amended | |
3.8** | By-laws of Atlantic/MR II Inc. | |
3.9** | Certificate of Incorporation of Atlantic Recording Corporation | |
3.10** | By-laws of Atlantic Recording Corporation | |
3.11** | Articles of Incorporation of Berna Music, Inc. | |
3.12** | By-laws of Berna Music, Inc., as amended | |
3.13** | Certificate of Incorporation of Big Beat Records Inc., as amended | |
3.14** | By-laws of Big Beat Records Inc. | |
3.15** | Certificate of Incorporation of Big Tree Recording Corporation, as amended | |
3.16** | By-laws of Big Tree Recording Corporation | |
3.17** | Certificate of Formation of Bute Sound LLC, as amended | |
3.18** | Limited Liability Company Agreement of Bute Sound LLC | |
3.19** | Certificate of Incorporation of Cafe Americana Inc. | |
3.20** | By-laws of Cafe Americana Inc., as amended | |
3.21** | Certificate of Incorporation of Chappell & Intersong Music Group (Australia) Limited | |
3.22** | Term of Reference of Chappell & Intersong Music Group (Australia) Limited | |
3.23** | Certificate of Incorporation of Chappell and Intersong Music Group (Germany) Inc., as amended | |
3.24** | By-laws of Chappell and Intersong Music Group (Germany) Inc. | |
3.25** | Certificate of Incorporation of Chappell Music Company, Inc. | |
3.26** | By-laws of Chappell Music Company, Inc. | |
3.27** | Certificate of Incorporation of Cota Music, Inc. | |
3.28** | By-laws of Cota Music, Inc. | |
3.29** | Certificate of Incorporation of Cotillion Music, Inc. | |
3.30** | By-laws of Cotillion Music, Inc. | |
3.31** | Restated Certificate of Incorporation of CPP/Belwin, Inc. | |
3.32** | By-laws of CPP/Belwin, Inc. | |
3.33** | Certificate of Incorporation of CRK Music Inc., as amended | |
II-3
3.34** | By-laws of CRK Music Inc. | |
3.35** | Certificate of Incorporation of E/A Music, Inc. | |
3.36** | By-laws of E/A Music, Inc. | |
3.37** | Certificate of Incorporation of Eleksylum Music, Inc., as amended | |
3.38** | By-laws of Eleksylum Music, Inc. | |
3.39** | Certificate of Incorporation of Elektra/Chameleon Ventures Inc. | |
3.40** | By-laws of Elektra/Chameleon Ventures Inc. | |
3.41** | Certificate of Incorporation of Elektra Entertainment Group Inc. | |
3.42** | By-laws of Elektra Entertainment Group Inc. | |
3.43** | Certificate of Incorporation of Elektra Group Ventures Inc. | |
3.44** | By-laws of Elektra Group Ventures Inc. | |
3.45** | Charter of FHK, Inc. | |
3.46** | By-laws of FHK, Inc. | |
3.47** | Certificate of Incorporation of Fiddleback Music Publishing Company, Inc., as amended | |
3.48** | By-laws of Fiddleback Music Publishing Company, Inc. | |
3.49** | Certificate of Incorporation of Foster Frees Music, Inc. | |
3.50** | By-laws of Foster Frees Music, Inc. | |
3.51** | Certificate of Formation of Foz Man Music LLC, as amended | |
3.52 | LLC Agreement of Foz Man Music LLC | |
3.53** | Certificate of Incorporation of Inside Job, Inc. | |
3.54** | By-laws of Inside Job, Inc. | |
3.55** | Certificate of Incorporation of Intersong U.S.A., Inc. | |
3.56** | By-laws of Intersong U.S.A., Inc. | |
3.57** | Certificate of Incorporation of Jadar Music Corp. | |
3.58** | By-laws of Jadar Music Corp. | |
3.59** | Certificate of Formation of Lava Trademark Holding Company LLC | |
3.60** | Operating Agreement of Lava Trademark Holding Company LLC | |
3.61** | Certificate of Incorporation of LEM America, Inc. | |
3.62** | By-laws of LEM America, Inc. | |
3.63** | Certificate of Incorporation of London-Sire Records Inc., as amended | |
3.64** | By-laws of London-Sire Records Inc. | |
3.65** | Certificate of Incorporation of McGuffin Music Inc. | |
3.66** | By-laws of McGuffin Music Inc. | |
3.67** | Certificate of Incorporation of Mixed Bag Music, Inc. | |
3.68** | By-laws of Mixed Bag Music, Inc. | |
3.69** | Certificate of Incorporation of NC Hungary Holdings Inc., as amended | |
3.70** | By-laws of NC Hungary Holdings Inc. | |
3.71** | Certificate of Incorporation of New Chappell Inc. | |
II-4
3.72** | By-laws of New Chappell Inc. | |
3.73** | Certificate of Incorporation of Nonesuch Records Inc. | |
3.74** | By-laws of Nonesuch Records Inc. | |
3.75** | Certificate of Incorporation of NVC International Inc., as amended | |
3.76** | By-laws of NVC International Inc. | |
3.77** | Certificate of Incorporation of Octa Music, Inc. | |
3.78** | By-laws of Octa Music, Inc. | |
3.79** | Certificate of Conversion of Penalty Records, L.L.C. | |
3.80** | Limited Liability Company Agreement of Penalty Records, L.L.C. | |
3.81** | Certificate of Incorporation of Pepamar Music Corp. | |
3.82** | By-laws of Pepamar Music Corp. | |
3.83** | Certificate of Incorporation of Revelation Music Publishing Corporation | |
3.84** | By-laws of Revelation Music Publishing Corporation | |
3.85** | Certificate of Incorporation of Rhino Entertainment Company, as amended | |
3.86** | By-laws of Rhino Entertainment Company | |
3.87** | Certificate of Incorporation of Rick's Music Inc. | |
3.88** | By-laws of Rick's Music Inc. | |
3.89** | Certificate of Incorporation of Rightsong Music Inc. | |
3.90** | By-laws of Rightsong Music Inc. | |
3.91** | Amended and Restated Articles of Incorporation of Rodra Music, Inc. | |
3.92** | By-laws of Rodra Music, Inc. | |
3.93** | Articles of Incorporation of Sea Chime Music, Inc., as amended | |
3.94** | By-laws of Sea Chime Music, Inc. | |
3.95** | Certificate of Incorporation of SR/MDM Venture Inc. | |
3.96** | By-laws of SR/MDM Venture Inc. | |
3.97** | Certificate of Incorporation of Super Hype Publishing, Inc. | |
3.98** | By-laws of Super Hype Publishing, Inc. | |
3.99** | Certificate of Incorporation of Summy-Birchard, Inc., as amended | |
3.100** | By-laws of Summy-Birchard, Inc. | |
3.101** | Articles of Organization of T-Boy Music, L.L.C. | |
3.102** | Articles of Organization of T-Girl Music, L.L.C. | |
3.103** | Certificate of Incorporation of The Rhythm Method Inc. | |
3.104** | By-laws of The Rhythm Method Inc. | |
3.105** | Certificate of Incorporation of Tommy Boy Music, Inc. | |
3.106** | By-laws of Tommy Boy Music, Inc. | |
3.107** | Certificate of Incorporation of Tommy Valando Publishing Group, Inc., as amended | |
3.108** | By-laws of Tommy Valando Publishing Group, Inc. | |
3.109** | Certificate of Incorporation of Tri-Chappell Music Inc. | |
II-5
3.110** | By-laws of Tri-Chappell Music Inc. | |
3.111** | Certificate of Incorporation of TW Music Holdings Inc. | |
3.112** | By-laws of TW Music Holdings Inc. | |
3.113** | Certificate of Incorporation of Unichappell Music Inc. | |
3.114** | By-laws of Unichappell Music Inc. | |
3.115** | Certificate of Incorporation of W.B.M. Music Corp. | |
3.116** | By-laws of W.B.M. Music Corp. | |
3.117** | Certificate of Incorporation of Walden Music Inc. | |
3.118** | By-laws of Walden Music Inc. | |
3.119** | Certificate of Incorporation of Warner Alliance Music Inc. | |
3.120** | By-laws of Warner Alliance Music Inc. | |
3.121** | Certificate of Incorporation of Warner Brethren Inc., as amended | |
3.122** | By-laws of Warner Brethren Inc. | |
3.123** | Certificate of Incorporation of Warner Bros. Music International Inc. | |
3.124** | By-laws of Warner Bros. Music International Inc. | |
3.125** | Certificate of Incorporation Warner Bros. Publications U.S. Inc., as amended | |
3.126** | By-laws of Warner Bros. Publications U.S. Inc. | |
3.127** | Certificate of Incorporation of Warner Bros. Records Inc., as amended | |
3.128** | By-laws of Warner Bros. Records Inc. | |
3.129** | Certificate of Incorporation of Warner/Chappell Music, Inc., as amended | |
3.130** | By-laws of Warner/Chappell Music, Inc. | |
3.131** | Certificate of Incorporation of Warner/Chappell Music (Services), Inc. | |
3.132** | By-laws of Warner/Chappell Music (Services), Inc. | |
3.133** | Articles of Incorporation of Warner Custom Music Corp., as amended | |
3.134** | By-laws of Warner Custom Music Corp. | |
3.135** | Certificate of Incorporation of Warner Domain Music Inc. | |
3.136** | By-laws of Warner Domain Music Inc. | |
3.137** | Certificate of Incorporation of Warner-Elektra-Atlantic Corporation | |
3.138** | By-laws of Warner-Elektra-Atlantic Corporation | |
3.139** | Certificate of Incorporation of MM Investment Inc. and amendment thereto (fka Warner Music Bluesky Holding Inc.) | |
3.140** | By-laws of MM Investment Inc. (fka Warner Music Bluesky Holding Inc.) | |
3.141** | Certificate of Incorporation of Warner Music Discovery Inc. | |
3.142** | By-laws of Warner Music Discovery Inc. | |
3.143** | Certificate of Incorporation of Warner Music Distribution Inc. | |
3.144** | By-laws of Warner Music Distribution Inc. | |
3.145** | Certificate of Incorporation of Warner Music Group Inc. | |
3.146** | By-laws of Warner Music Group Inc. | |
II-6
3.147** | Certificate of Incorporation of Warner Music Latina Inc., as amended | |
3.148** | By-laws of Warner Music Latina Inc. | |
3.149** | Certificate of Incorporation of Warner Sojourner Music Inc. | |
3.150** | By-laws of Warner Sojourner Music Inc. | |
3.151** | Certificate of Incorporation of WarnerSongs, Inc., as amended | |
3.152** | By-laws of WarnerSongs, Inc., as amended | |
3.153** | Certificate of Incorporation of Warner Music SP Inc. | |
3.154** | By-laws of Warner Music SP Inc. | |
3.155** | Certificate of Incorporation of Warner Special Products Inc. | |
3.156** | By-laws of Warner Special Products Inc. | |
3.157** | Certificate of Incorporation of Warner Strategic Marketing Inc. | |
3.158** | By-laws of Warner Strategic Marketing Inc. | |
3.159** | Articles of Incorporation of Warner-Tamerlane Publishing Corp. | |
3.160** | By-laws of Warner-Tamerlane Publishing Corp. | |
3.161** | Certificate of Incorporation of Warprise Music Inc. | |
3.162** | By-laws of Warprise Music Inc. | |
3.163** | Certificate of Incorporation of WB Gold Music Corp. | |
3.164** | By-laws of WB Gold Music Corp. | |
3.165** | Articles of Incorporation of WB Music Corp. | |
3.166** | By-laws of WB Music Corp. | |
3.167** | Certificate of Incorporation of WBM/House of Gold Music, Inc., as amended | |
3.168** | By-laws of WBM/House of Gold Music, Inc. | |
3.169** | Certificate of Formation of WBPI Holdings LLC | |
3.170** | LLC Agreement of WBPI Holdings LLC | |
3.171** | Certificate of Incorporation of WBR Management Services Inc. | |
3.172** | By-laws of WBR Management Services Inc. | |
3.173** | Certificate of Incorporation of WBR/QRI Venture, Inc., as amended | |
3.174** | By-laws of WBR/QRI Venture, Inc. | |
3.175** | Certificate of Incorporation of WBR/Ruffnation Ventures, Inc. | |
3.176** | By-laws of WBR/Ruffnation Ventures, Inc. | |
3.177** | Certificate of Incorporation of WBR/Sire Ventures Inc. | |
3.178** | By-laws of WBR/Sire Ventures Inc. | |
3.179** | Certificate of Incorporation of We Are Musica Inc. | |
3.180** | By-laws of We Are Musica Inc. | |
3.181** | Certificate of Incorporation of WEA Europe Inc., as amended | |
3.182** | By-laws of WEA Europe Inc. | |
3.183** | Certificate of Incorporation of WEA Inc. | |
3.184** | By-laws of WEA Inc. | |
II-7
3.185** | Certificate of Incorporation of WEA International Inc. | |
3.186** | By-laws of WEA International Inc. | |
3.187** | Certificate of Incorporation of WEA Latina Music Inc. | |
3.188** | By-laws of WEA Latina Music Inc. | |
3.189** | Certificate of Incorporation of WEA Management Services Inc., as amended | |
3.190** | By-laws of WEA Management Services Inc. | |
3.191** | Certificate of Formation of WEA Rock LLC | |
3.192** | Limited Liability Company Agreement of WEA Rock LLC | |
3.193** | Certificate of Formation of WEA Urban LLC | |
3.194** | Limited Liability Company Agreement of WEA Urban LLC | |
3.195** | Certificate of Incorporation of WMG Management Services Inc., as amended | |
3.196** | Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of WMG Acquisition Corp. | |
3.197** | Amended and Restated By-laws WMG Acquisition Corp. | |
3.198** | By-laws of WMG Management Services Inc. | |
3.199** | Articles of Incorporation of Wide Music, Inc., as amended | |
3.200** | By-laws of Wide Music, Inc., as amended | |
3.201** | Certificate of Formation of WMG Trademark Holding Company LLC | |
3.202** | Limited Liability Company Agreement of WMG Trademark Holding Company LLC | |
3.203** | Limited Liability Company Agreement of T-Boy Music, L.L.C. | |
3.204** | Limited Liability Company Agreement of T-Girl Music, L.L.C. | |
4.1** | Indenture, dated as of April 8, 2004, among WMG Acquisition Corp., the Guarantors named therein and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association | |
4.2** | First Supplemental Indenture, dated as of November 16, 2004, among WMG Acquisition Corp., Wells Fargo Bank, National Association, as Trustee, WEA Urban LLC and WEA Rock LLC | |
4.3** | Registration Rights Agreement dated as of April 8, 2004, among WMG Acquisition Corp., the Guarantors named therein and the Initial Purchasers named therein | |
5.1** | Opinion of Simpson Thacher & Bartlett LLP | |
5.2 | Opinion of Gelfand Stein & Wasson LLP | |
5.3 | Opinion of McCarter & English LLP | |
5.4 | Opinion of Holland & Hart LLP | |
5.5 | Opinion of Baker, Donelson, Bearman, Caldwell & Berkowitz, PC | |
10.1** | Amended and Restated Credit Agreement, dated as of April 8, 2004, among WMG Acquisition Corp., the Overseas Borrowers from time to time party thereto, MG Holdings Corp., each lender from time to time party thereto Banc of America Securities LLC and Deutsche Bank Securities Inc., as Joint Lead Arrangers and Joint Book Managers, Lehman Brothers Inc. and Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith Incorporated, as Co-Arrangers and Joint Book Managers, Deutsche Bank Securities Inc. and Lehman Commercial Paper Inc., as Co-Syndication Agents, Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith Incorporated, as Documentation Agent, and Bank of America, N.A., as Administrative Agent, Swing Line Lender and L/C Issuer. | |
II-8
10.2** | Amendment No. 1 to the Credit Agreement, dated as of September 30, 2004, among WMG Acquisition Corp., the Overseas Borrowers party thereto, WMG Holdings Corp., the lenders party thereto, Banc of America Securities LLC and Deutsche Bank Securities Inc., as joint lead arrangers and joint book managers and various other parties | |
10.3** | Amendment No. 2 to the Credit Agreement, dated as of December 6, 2004, among WMG Acquisition Corp., the Overseas Borrowers party thereto, WMG Holdings Corp., the lenders party thereto, Banc of America Securities LLC and Deutsche Bank Securities Inc., as joint lead arrangers and joint book managers and various other parties | |
10.4** | Security Agreement, dated as of February 27, 2004, from the Grantors named to therein to Bank of America, N.A. | |
10.5** | Subsidiary Guaranty, dated as of February 27, 2004, from the Guarantors named therein and the Additional Guarantors named therein in favor of the Secured Parties named in the Credit Agreement referred to therein | |
10.6** | Parent Guaranty, dated as of February 27, 2004, from WMG Holdings Corp. in favor of the Secured Parties named in the Credit Agreement referred to therein | |
10.7** | Company Guaranty, dated as of February 27, 2004, from WMG Acquisition Corp. in favor of the Secured Parties named in the Credit Agreement referred to therein | |
10.8** | Deed of Trust, Security Agreement, Assignment of Rents and Leases and Fixture Filing (Tennessee) by and from Warner Bros. Records, Inc. to Kay B. Housch in favor of Bank of America, N.A., dated as of February 29, 2004 (20, 24, 26 Music Square East) | |
10.9** | Deed of Trust, Security Agreement, Assignment of Rents and Leases and Fixture Filing (Tennessee) by and from Warner Bros. Records, Inc. to Kay B. Housch in favor of Bank of America, N.A., dated as of February 29, 2004 (21 Music Square East) | |
10.10** | Deed of Trust, Security Agreement, Assignment of Rents and Leases and Fixture Filing (California) by and from Warner Bros. Records, Inc. to MTC Financial Inc. in favor of Bank of America, N.A., dated as of February 29, 2004 | |
10.11** | Trademark Security Agreement, dated as of February 29, 2004, made by the Grantors listed on the signature pages thereto in favor of the Bank of America, N.A. | |
10.12** | Copyright Security Agreement, dated as of February 29, 2004, made by the Grantors listed on the signature pages thereto in favor of the Bank of America, N.A. | |
10.13** | Stockholders Agreement, dated as of February 29, 2004, among WMG Parent Corp., WMG Holdings Corp., WMG Acquisition Corp. and Certain Stockholders of WMG Parent Corp. and WMG Holdings Corp. | |
10.14** | Amendment No. 1 to Stockholder's Agreement, dated as of July 30, 2004, among WMG Parent Corp., WMG Holdings Corp., WMG Acquisition Corp., each Person executing this Agreement and listed as an Investor on the signature pages hereto, each Person executing this Agreement and listed as a Seller on the signature pages hereto, each Person executing this Agreement and listed as a Manager on the signature pages hereto and such other Persons, if any, that from time to time become party hereto as holders of Other Holder Shares solely in the capacity of permitted assignees with respect to certain registration rights hereunder | |
10.15** | Seller Administrative Services Agreement, dated as of February 29, 2004, between Time Warner Inc. and WMG Acquisition Corp. | |
10.16** | Amendment No. 1 to Seller Administrative Services Agreement, dated as of July 1, 2004, between Time Warner Inc. and WMG Acquisition Corp. | |
II-9
10.17** | Purchaser Administrative Services Agreement, dated as of February 29, 2004, between Time Warner Inc. and WMG Acquisition Corp. | |
10.18** | Management Agreement, dated as of February 29, 2004, among WMG Parent Corp., WMG Holdings Corp., WMG Acquisition Corp., THL Managers V, L.L.C., Bain Capital Partners, LLC, Providence Equity Partners IV Inc. and Music Partners Management, LLC | |
10.19** | Warrant Agreement (MMT Warrants), February 29, 2004, WMG Parent Corp., WMG Holdings Corp. and Historic TW Inc. | |
10.20** | Warrant Agreement (Three-Year Warrants), February 29, 2004, WMG Parent Corp., WMG Holdings Corp. and Historic TW Inc. | |
10.21** | Employment Agreement, effective as of March 1, 2004, between WMG Acquisition Corp. and Edgar Bronfman, Jr. | |
10.22** | Employment Agreement, dated as of January 25, 2004, between WMG Acquisition Corp. and Lyor Cohen | |
10.23** | Employment Agreement, dated as of November 28, 2002, between Warner Music International Services Ltd. and Paul-René Albertini, assumed by WMG Acquisition Corp. on March 1, 2004 | |
10.24** | Employment Agreement, dated as of March 22, 1999, between Warner Music Group Inc. and Les Bider, as amended, assumed by WMG Acquisition Corp. on March 1, 2004 | |
10.25** | Employment Agreement, dated as of December 15, 1998, between Warner Music Group Inc. and David H. Johnson, as amended, assumed by WMG Acquisition Corp. on March 1, 2004 | |
10.26** | Office Lease, June 27, 2002, by and between Media Center Development, LLC and Warner Music Group Inc., as amended | |
10.27** | Lease, dated as of February 1, 1996, between 1290 Associates, L.L.C.and Warner Communications Inc. | |
10.28(1)** | U.S. Pick, Pack and Shipping Services Agreement, dated as of October 24, 2003, between Warner-Elektra-Atlantic Corporation and Cinram Distribution LLC | |
10.29(1)** | US Manufacturing and Packaging Agreement, dated as of October 24, 2003, between Warner-Elektra-Atlantic Corporation and Cinram Manufacturing Inc. | |
10.30(1)** | International Pick, Pack and Shipping Services Agreement, dated as of October 24, 2003, between WEA International Inc. and Warner Music Manufacturing Europe GmbH Company | |
10.31(1)** | International Manufacturing and Packaging Agreement, dated as of October 24, 2003, between WEA International Inc. and Warner Music Manufacturing Europe GmbH Company | |
10.32** | Lease, dated as of February 29, 2004, between Historical TW Inc. and Warner Music Group Inc. regarding 75 Rockefeller Plaza | |
10.33** | Consent to Assignment of Sublease, dated as of October 5, 2001, between 1290 Partners, L.P. and Warner Music Group | |
10.34** | Restricted Stock Award Agreement, dated as of March 1, 2004, between WMG Parent Corp. and Edgar Bronfman, Jr. | |
10.35** | Restricted Stock Award Agreement, dated as of March 1, 2004, between WMG Parent Corp. and Lyor Cohen | |
II-10
10.36** | Form of WMG Parent Corp. LTIP Stock Option Agreement | |
10.37** |
Employment Agreement, dated as of December 21, 2004, between Warner Music Group Inc. and Michael D. Fleisher |
|
10.38** | Restricted Stock Award Agreement, dated as of October 1, 2004, between WMG Parent Corp. and David H. Johnson | |
10.39** | Restricted Stock Award Agreement, dated as of December 31, 2004, between WMG Parent Corp. and Michael D. Fleisher | |
10.40** | Stock Option Agreement, dated as of October 1, 2004, between WMG Parent Corp. and Paul-Rene Albertini | |
10.41** | Stock Option Agreement, dated as of September 30, 2004, between WMG Parent Corp. and Les Bider | |
12.1** | Computation of Ratio of Earnings to Fixed Charges | |
21.1 | List of Subsidiaries | |
23.1** | Consent of Simpson Thacher & Bartlett LLP (included as part of its opinion filed as Exhibit 5.1 hereto) | |
23.2 | Consent of Ernst & Young LLP | |
23.3 | Consent of Gelfand Stein & Wasson LLP (included as part of its opinion filed as Exhibit 5.2 hereto) | |
23.4 | Consent of McCarter & English LLP (included as part of its opinion filed as Exhibit 5.3 hereto) | |
23.5 | Consent of Holland & Hart LLP (included as part of its opinion filed as Exhibit 5.4 hereto) | |
23.6 | Consent of Baker, Panelson, Bearman, Caldwell & Berkowitz, PC (included as part of its opinion filed as Exhibit 5.5 hereto) | |
24.1** | Powers of Attorney for WMG Acquisition Corp. | |
24.2** | Power of Attorney for Additional Registrants | |
24.3** | Power of Attorney for WMG Acquisition Corp. with respect to Michael D. Fleisher | |
25.1** | Form T-1 Statement of Eligibility under the Trust Indenture Act of 1939, as amended, of Wells Fargo Bank, National Association, as Trustee for Dollar Notes | |
99.1** | Form of Letter of TransmittalDollar Notes | |
99.2** | Form of Letter of TransmittalSterling Notes | |
99.3** | Form of Letter to Brokers, Dealers, Commercial Banks, Trust Companies and Other NomineesDollar Notes | |
99.4** | Form of Letter to Brokers, Dealers, Commercial Banks, Trust Companies and Other NomineesSterling Notes | |
99.5** | Form of Letter to ClientsDollar Notes | |
99.6** | Form of Letter to ClientsSterling Notes | |
99.7** | Form of Notice of Guaranteed DeliveryDollar Notes | |
99.8** | Form of Notice of Guaranteed DeliverySterling Notes | |
(b) | Financial Statement Schedules | |
Schedule IIValuation and Qualifying Accounts |
II-11
Item 22. Undertakings.
The undersigned registrants hereby undertake:
Insofar as indemnification for liabilities arising under the Securities Act of 1933 may be permitted to directors, officers, or controlling persons of the registrant pursuant to the foregoing provisions, or otherwise, the registrant has been advised that in the opinion of the Securities and Exchange Commission such indemnification is against public policy as expressed in the Act and is therefore, unenforceable. In the event that a claim for indemnification against such liabilities (other than the payment by the registrants of expenses incurred or paid by a director, officer or controlling person of the registrants in the successful defense of any action, suit or proceeding) is asserted by such director, officer or controlling person in connection with the securities being registered, the registrants will, unless in the opinion of it counsel the matter has been settled by controlling precedent, submit to a court of appropriate jurisdiction the question whether such indemnification by it is against public policy as expressed in the Act and will be governed by the final adjudication of such issue.
The undersigned registrant hereby undertakes to respond to requests for information that is incorporated by reference into the prospectus pursuant to Item 4, 10(b), 11, or 13 of this form, within one business day of receipt of such request, and to send the incorporated documents by first class mail or other equally prompt means. This includes information contained in documents filed subsequent to the effective date of the registration statement through the date of responding to the request.
The undersigned registrant hereby undertakes to supply by means of a post-effective amendment all information concerning a transaction, and the company being acquired involved therein, that was not the subject of and included in the registration statement when it became effective.
II-12
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, WMG Acquisition Corp. has duly caused this registration statement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in the city of New York, state of New York, on February 8, 2005.
WMG ACQUISITION CORP. | |||
By: |
* |
||
Name: Edgar Bronfman, Jr. Title: Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the Board |
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, this registration statement has been signed by the following persons in the capacities indicated on February 8, 2005.
Signature |
Title |
|
---|---|---|
* Edgar Bronfman, Jr. |
Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the Board (Principal Executive Officer) |
|
* Michael D. Fleisher |
Chief Financial Officer (Principal Financial Officer and Principal Accounting Officer) |
|
* Len Blavatnik |
Director |
|
* Charles A. Brizius |
Director |
|
* John P. Connaughton |
Director |
|
* Scott L. Jaeckel |
Director |
|
* Seth W. Lawry |
Director |
|
II-13
* Thomas H. Lee |
Director |
|
* Ian Loring |
Director |
|
* Jonathan M. Nelson |
Director |
|
* Mark Nunnelly |
Director |
|
* Scott M. Sperling |
Director |
*By: |
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson Attorney-in-Fact |
II-14
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, A.P. Schmidt Company has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in the City of New York, state of New York, on February 8, 2005.
A.P. SCHMIDT COMPANY | |||
By: |
* |
||
Name: Leslie Bider Title: Chief Executive Officer |
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, this Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the capacities indicated on February 8, 2005.
Signature |
Title(s): |
|
---|---|---|
* Leslie Bider |
Chief Executive Officer (Principal Executive Officer) |
|
* Nick Thomas |
Senior Vice President (Principal Financial Officer and Principal Accounting Officer) |
|
* Edgar Bronfman, Jr. |
Director |
|
* Dave Johnson |
Director |
|
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson |
Director |
*By: |
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson Attorney-in-Fact |
II-15
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, Atlantic Recording Corporation has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in the City of New York, state of New York, on February 8, 2005.
ATLANTIC RECORDING CORPORATION | |||
By: |
* |
||
Name: Jason Flom Title: Chief Executive Officer |
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, this Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the capacities indicated on February 8, 2005.
Signature |
Title(s): |
|
---|---|---|
* Jason Flom |
Chief Executive Officer (Principal Executive Officer) |
|
* Samantha Schwam |
Chief Financial Officer (Principal Financial Officer and Principal Accounting Officer) |
|
* Edgar Bronfman, Jr. |
Director |
|
* Dave Johnson |
Director |
|
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson |
Director |
*By: |
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson Attorney-in-Fact |
II-16
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, Atlantic/143 L.L.C. has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in the City of New York, state of New York, on February 8, 2005.
ATLANTIC/143 L.L.C. | |||
By: |
* |
||
Name: Jason Flom Title: Chief Executive Officer, on behalf of Atlantic Recording Corp. |
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, this Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the capacities indicated on February 8, 2005.
Signature |
Title(s): |
|
---|---|---|
Atlantic Recording Corp. | Sole member | |
* Jason Flom |
Chief Executive Officer, on behalf of Atlantic Recording Corp. (Principal Executive Officer) |
|
* Samantha Schwam |
Chief Financial Officer, on behalf of Atlantic Recording Corp. (Principal Financial Officer and Principal Accounting Officer) |
By: |
* Name: Edgar Bronfman, Jr. |
Director of sole member |
||
By: |
* Name: Dave Johnson |
Director of sole member |
||
By: |
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Name: Paul Robinson |
Director of sole member |
*By: |
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson Attorney-in-Fact |
II-17
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, Atlantic/MR II INC. has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in the City of New York, state of New York, on February 8, 2005.
ATLANTIC/MR II INC. | |||
By: |
* |
||
Name: Craig Kallman Title: President |
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, this Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the capacities indicated on February 8, 2005.
Signature |
Title(s): |
|
---|---|---|
* Craig Kallman |
President (Principal Executive Officer) |
|
* Samantha Schwam |
Senior Vice President; Chief Financial Officer (Principal Financial Officer and Principal Accounting Officer) |
|
* Edgar Bronfman, Jr. |
Director |
|
* Dave Johnson |
Director |
|
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson |
Director |
*By: |
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson Attorney-in-Fact |
II-18
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, Atlantic/MR Ventures Inc. has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in the City of New York, state of New York, on February 8, 2005.
ATLANTIC/MR VENTURES INC. | |||
By: |
* |
||
Name: Craig Kallman Title: President |
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, this Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the capacities indicated on February 8, 2005.
Signature |
Title(s): |
|
---|---|---|
* Craig Kallman |
President (Principal Executive Officer) |
|
* Samantha Schwam |
Senior Vice President; Chief Financial Officer (Principal Financial Officer and Principal Accounting Officer) |
|
* Edgar Bronfman, Jr. |
Director |
|
* Dave Johnson |
Director |
|
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson |
Director |
*By: |
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson Attorney-in-Fact |
II-19
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, Berna Music, Inc. has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in the City of New York, state of New York, on February 8, 2005.
BERNA MUSIC, INC. | |||
By: |
* |
||
Name: Leslie Bider Title: President |
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, this Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the capacities indicated on February 8, 2005.
Signature |
Title(s): |
|
---|---|---|
* Leslie Bider |
President (Principal Executive Officer) |
|
* Nick Thomas |
Treasurer; Chief Financial Officer (Principal Financial Officer and Principal Accounting Officer) |
|
* Edgar Bronfman, Jr. |
Director |
|
* Dave Johnson |
Director |
|
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson |
Director |
*By: |
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson Attorney-in-Fact |
II-20
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, Big Beat Records Inc. has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in the City of New York, state of New York, on February 8, 2005.
BIG BEAT RECORDS INC. | |||
By: |
* |
||
Name: Craig Kallman Title: President |
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, this Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the capacities indicated on February 8, 2005.
Signature |
Title(s): |
|
---|---|---|
* Craig Kallman |
President (Principal Executive Officer) |
|
* Samantha Schwam |
Treasurer (Principal Financial Officer and Principal Accounting Officer) |
|
* Edgar Bronfman, Jr. |
Director |
|
* Dave Johnson |
Director |
|
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson |
Director |
*By: |
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson Attorney-in-Fact |
II-21
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, Big Tree Recording Corporation has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in the City of New York, state of New York, on February 8, 2005.
BIG TREE RECORDING CORPORATION | |||
By: |
* |
||
Name: Craig Kallman Title: President |
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, this Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the capacities indicated on February 8, 2005.
Signature |
Title(s): |
|
---|---|---|
* Craig Kallman |
President (Principal Executive Officer) |
|
* Samantha Schwam |
Treasurer (Principal Financial Officer and Principal Accounting Officer) |
|
* Edgar Bronfman, Jr. |
Director |
|
* Dave Johnson |
Director |
|
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson |
Director |
*By: |
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson Attorney-in-Fact |
II-22
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, Bute Sound LLC has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in the City of New York, state of New York, on February 8, 2005.
BUTE SOUND LLC | |||
By: |
* |
||
Name: Jason Flom Title: Chief Executive Officer, on behalf of Atlantic Recording Corp. |
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, this Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the capacities indicated on February 8, 2005.
Signature |
Title(s): |
|
---|---|---|
Atlantic Recording Corp. | Sole member | |
* Jason Flom |
Chief Executive Officer, on behalf of Atlantic Recording Corp. (Principal Executive Officer) |
|
* Samantha Schwam |
Chief Financial Officer, on behalf of Atlantic Recording Corp. (Principal Financial Officer and Principal Accounting Officer) |
By: |
* |
|||
Name: | Edgar Bronfman, Jr. | Director of sole member | ||
By: |
* |
|||
Name: | Dave Johnson | Director of sole member | ||
By: |
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON |
|||
Name: | Paul Robinson | Director of sole member |
*By: |
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson Attorney-in-Fact |
II-23
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, Cafe Americana Inc. has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in the City of New York, state of New York, on February 8, 2005.
CAFE AMERICANA INC. | |||
By: |
* |
||
Name: Leslie Bider Title: Chief Executive Officer and President |
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, this Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the capacities indicated on February 8, 2005.
Signature |
Title(s): |
|
---|---|---|
* Leslie Bider |
President; Chief Executive Officer (Principal Executive Officer) |
|
* Nick Thomas |
Senior Vice President; Chief Financial Officer (Principal Financial Officer and Principal Accounting Officer) |
|
* Edgar Bronfman, Jr. |
Director |
|
* Dave Johnson |
Director |
|
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson |
Director |
*By: |
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson Attorney-in-Fact |
II-24
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, Chappell & Intersong Music Group (Australia) Limited has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in the City of New York, state of New York, on February 8, 2005.
CHAPPELL & INTERSONG MUSIC GROUP (AUSTRALIA) LIMITED | |||
By: |
* |
||
Name: Leslie Bider Title: President |
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, this Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the capacities indicated on February 8, 2005.
Signature |
Title(s): |
|
---|---|---|
* Leslie Bider |
President (Principal Executive Officer) |
|
* Nick Thomas |
Treasurer; Senior Vice President (Principal Financial Officer and Principal Accounting Officer) |
|
* Edgar Bronfman, Jr. |
Director |
|
* Dave Johnson |
Director |
|
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson |
Director |
*By: |
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson Attorney-in-Fact |
II-25
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, Chappell And Intersong Music Group (Germany) Inc. has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in the City of New York, state of New York, on February 8, 2005.
CHAPPELL AND INTERSONG MUSIC GROUP (GERMANY) INC. | |||
By: |
* |
||
Name: Bernd Dopp Title: Chief Executive Officer and President |
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, this Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the capacities indicated on February 8, 2005.
Signature |
Title(s): |
|
---|---|---|
* Bernd Dopp |
President; Chief Executive Officer (Principal Executive Officer) |
|
* Norbert Masch |
Treasurer (Principal Financial Officer and Principal Accounting Officer) |
|
* Edgar Bronfman, Jr. |
Director |
|
* Dave Johnson |
Director |
|
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson |
Director |
*By: |
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson Attorney-in-Fact |
II-26
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, Chappell Music Company, Inc. has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in the City of New York, state of New York, on February 8, 2005.
CHAPPELL MUSIC COMPANY, INC. | |||
By: |
* |
||
Name: Leslie Bider Title: President |
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, this Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the capacities indicated on February 8, 2005.
Signature |
Title(s): |
|
---|---|---|
* Leslie Bider |
President (Principal Executive Officer) |
|
* Nick Thomas |
Treasurer; Senior Vice President (Principal Financial Officer and Principal Accounting Officer) |
|
* Edgar Bronfman, Jr. |
Director |
|
* Dave Johnson |
Director |
|
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson |
Director |
*By: |
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson Attorney-in-Fact |
II-27
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, Cota Music, Inc. has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in the City of New York, state of New York, on February 8, 2005.
COTA MUSIC, INC. | |||
By: |
* |
||
Name: Leslie Bider Title: President |
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, this Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the capacities indicated on February 8, 2005.
Signature |
Title(s): |
|
---|---|---|
* Leslie Bider |
President (Principal Executive Officer) |
|
* Nick Thomas |
Treasurer; Senior Vice President (Principal Financial Officer and Principal Accounting Officer) |
|
* Edgar Bronfman, Jr. |
Director |
|
* Dave Johnson |
Director |
|
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson |
Director |
*By: |
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson Attorney-in-Fact |
II-28
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, Cotillion Music, Inc. has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in the City of New York, state of New York, on February 8, 2005.
COTILLION MUSIC, INC. | |||
By: |
* |
||
Name: Leslie Bider Title: President |
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, this Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the capacities indicated on February 8, 2005.
Signature |
Title(s): |
|
---|---|---|
* Leslie Bider |
President (Principal Executive Officer) |
|
* Nick Thomas |
Treasurer; Senior Vice President (Principal Financial Officer and Principal Accounting Officer) |
|
* Edgar Bronfman, Jr. |
Director |
|
* Dave Johnson |
Director |
|
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson |
Director |
*By: |
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson Attorney-in-Fact |
II-29
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, CPP/Belwin, Inc. has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in the City of New York, state of New York, on February 8, 2005.
CPP/BELWIN, INC. | |||
By: |
* |
||
Name: Leslie Bider Title: Chairman of the Board |
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, this Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the capacities indicated on February 8, 2004.
Signature |
Title(s): |
|
---|---|---|
* Leslie Bider |
Chairman of the Board (Principal Executive Officer) |
|
* Nick Thomas |
Treasurer; Executive Vice President (Principal Financial Officer and Principal Accounting Officer) |
|
* Edgar Bronfman, Jr. |
Director |
|
* Dave Johnson |
Director |
|
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson |
Director |
*By: |
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson Attorney-in-Fact |
II-30
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, CRK Music Inc. has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in the City of New York, state of New York, on February 8, 2005.
CRK MUSIC INC. | |||
By: |
* |
||
Name: Leslie Bider Title: President |
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, this Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the capacities indicated on February 8, 2005.
Signature |
Title(s): |
|
---|---|---|
* Leslie Bider |
President (Principal Executive Officer) |
|
* Nick Thomas |
Treasurer; Senior Vice President (Principal Financial Officer and Principal Accounting Officer) |
|
* Edgar Bronfman, Jr. |
Director |
|
* Dave Johnson |
Director |
|
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson |
Director |
*By: |
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson Attorney-in-Fact |
II-31
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, E/A Music, Inc. has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in the City of New York, state of New York, on February 8, 2005.
E/A MUSIC, INC. | |||
By: |
* |
||
Name: Leslie Bider Title: President |
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, this Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the capacities indicated on February 8, 2005.
Signature |
Title(s): |
|
---|---|---|
* Leslie Bider |
President (Principal Executive Officer) |
|
* Nick Thomas |
Treasurer; Senior Vice President (Principal Financial Officer and Principal Accounting Officer) |
|
* Edgar Bronfman, Jr. |
Director |
|
* Dave Johnson |
Director |
|
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson |
Director |
*By: |
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson Attorney-in-Fact |
II-32
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, Eleksylum Music, Inc. has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in the City of New York, state of New York, on February 8, 2005.
ELEKSYLUM MUSIC, INC. | |||
By: |
* |
||
Name: Leslie Bider Title: President |
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, this Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the capacities indicated on February 8, 2005.
Signature |
Title(s): |
|
---|---|---|
* Leslie Bider |
President (Principal Executive Officer) |
|
* Nick Thomas |
Treasurer; Senior Vice President (Principal Financial Officer and Principal Accounting Officer) |
|
* Edgar Bronfman, Jr. |
Director |
|
* Dave Johnson |
Director |
|
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson |
Director |
*By: |
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson Attorney-in-Fact |
II-33
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, Elektra Entertainment Group Inc. has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in the City of New York, state of New York, on February 8, 2005.
ELEKTRA ENTERTAINMENT GROUP INC. | |||
By: |
* |
||
Name: Jason Flom Title: Chief Executive Officer |
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, this Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the capacities indicated on February 8, 2005.
Signature |
Title(s): |
|
---|---|---|
* Jason Flom |
Chief Executive Officer (Principal Executive Officer) |
|
* Samantha Schwam |
Chief Financial Officer (Principal Financial Officer and Principal Accounting Officer) |
|
* Edgar Bronfman, Jr. |
Director |
|
* Dave Johnson |
Director |
|
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson |
Director |
*By: |
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson Attorney-in-Fact |
II-34
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, Elektra Group Ventures Inc. has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in the City of New York, state of New York, on February 8, 2005.
ELEKTRA GROUP VENTURES INC. | |||
By: |
* |
||
Name: Craig Kallman Title: President |
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, this Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the capacities indicated on February 8, 2005.
Signature |
Title(s): |
|
---|---|---|
* Craig Kallman |
President (Principal Executive Officer) |
|
* Anthony Bown |
Assistant Treasurer (Principal Financial Officer and Principal Accounting Officer) |
|
* Edgar Bronfman, Jr. |
Director |
|
* Dave Johnson |
Director |
|
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson |
Director |
*By: |
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson Attorney-in-Fact |
II-35
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, Elektra/Chameleon Ventures Inc. has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in the City of New York, state of New York, on February 8, 2005.
ELEKTRA/CHAMELEON VENTURES INC. | |||
By: |
* |
||
Name: Leslie Bider Title: President |
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, this Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the capacities indicated on February 8, 2005.
Signature |
Title(s): |
|
---|---|---|
* Leslie Bider |
President (Principal Executive Officer) |
|
* Nick Thomas |
Treasurer; Senior Vice President (Principal Financial Officer and Principal Accounting Officer) |
|
* Edgar Bronfman, Jr. |
Director |
|
* Dave Johnson |
Director |
|
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson |
Director |
*By: |
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson Attorney-in-Fact |
II-36
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, FHK, INC. has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in the City of New York, state of New York, on February 8, 2005.
FHK, INC. | |||
By: |
* |
||
Name: Leslie Bider Title: President |
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, this Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the capacities indicated on February 8, 2005.
Signature |
Title(s): |
|
---|---|---|
* Leslie Bider |
President (Principal Executive Officer) |
|
* Nick Thomas |
Treasurer; Senior Vice President (Principal Financial Officer and Principal Accounting Officer) |
|
* Edgar Bronfman, Jr. |
Director |
|
* Dave Johnson |
Director |
|
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson |
Director |
*By: |
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson Attorney-in-Fact |
II-37
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, Fiddleback Music Publishing Company, Inc. has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in the City of New York, state of New York, on February 8, 2005.
FIDDLEBACK MUSIC PUBLISHING COMPANY, INC. | |||
By: |
* |
||
Name: Leslie Bider Title: President |
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, this Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the capacities indicated on February 8, 2005.
Signature |
Title(s): |
|
---|---|---|
* Leslie Bider |
President (Principal Executive Officer) |
|
* Nick Thomas |
Treasurer; Senior Vice President (Principal Financial Officer and Principal Accounting Officer) |
|
* Edgar Bronfman, Jr. |
Director |
|
* Dave Johnson |
Director |
|
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson |
Director |
*By: |
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson Attorney-in-Fact |
II-38
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, Foster Frees Music, Inc. has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in the City of New York, state of New York, on February 8, 2005.
FOSTER FREES MUSIC, INC. | |||
By: |
* |
||
Name: Leslie Bider Title: President |
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, this Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the capacities indicated on February 8, 2005.
Signature |
Title(s): |
|
---|---|---|
* Leslie Bider |
President (Principal Executive Officer) |
|
* Nick Thomas |
Treasurer; Senior Vice President (Principal Financial Officer and Principal Accounting Officer) |
|
* Edgar Bronfman, Jr. |
Director |
|
* Dave Johnson |
Director |
|
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson |
Director |
*By: |
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson Attorney-in-Fact |
II-39
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, Foz Man Music LLC has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in the City of New York, state of New York, on February 8, 2005.
FOZ MAN MUSIC LLC | |||
By: |
* |
||
Name: Jason Flom Title: Chief Executive Officer, on behalf of Atlantic Recording Corp. |
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, this Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the capacities indicated on February 8, 2005.
Signature |
Title(s): |
|
---|---|---|
Atlantic Recording Corp. |
Sole member | |
* Jason Flom |
Chief Executive Officer, on behalf of Atlantic Recording Corp. (Principal Executive Officer) |
|
* Samantha Schwam |
Chief Financial Officer, on behalf of Atlantic Recording Corp. (Principal Financial Officer and Principal Accounting Officer) |
By: |
* |
|||
Name: | Edgar Bronfman, Jr. | Director of sole member | ||
By: |
* |
|||
Name: | Dave Johnson | Director of sole member | ||
By: |
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON |
|||
Name: | Paul Robinson | Director of sole member |
*By: |
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson Attorney-in-Fact |
II-40
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, Inside Job, Inc. has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in the City of New York, state of New York, on February 8, 2005.
INSIDE JOB, INC. | |||
By: |
* |
||
Name: Craig Kallman Title: President |
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, this Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the capacities indicated on February 8, 2005.
Signature |
Title(s): |
|
---|---|---|
* Craig Kallman |
President (Principal Executive Officer) |
|
* Samantha Schwam |
Treasurer (Principal Financial Officer and Principal Accounting Officer) |
|
* Edgar Bronfman, Jr. |
Director |
|
* Dave Johnson |
Director |
|
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson |
Director |
*By: |
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson Attorney-in-Fact |
II-41
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, Intersong U.S.A., INC. has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in the City of New York, state of New York, on February 8, 2005.
INTERSONG U.S.A., INC. | |||
By: |
* |
||
Name: Leslie Bider Title: Chief Executive Officer and President |
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, this Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the capacities indicated on February 8, 2005.
Signature |
Title(s): |
|
---|---|---|
* Leslie Bider |
President; Chief Executive Officer (Principal Executive Officer) |
|
* Nick Thomas |
Treasurer; Senior Vice President (Principal Financial Officer and Principal Accounting Officer) |
|
* Edgar Bronfman, Jr. |
Director |
|
* Dave Johnson |
Director |
|
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson |
Director |
*By: |
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson Attorney-in-Fact |
II-42
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, Jadar Music Corp. has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in the City of New York, state of New York, on February 8, 2005.
JADAR MUSIC CORP. | |||
By: |
* |
||
Name: Leslie Bider Title: Chief Executive Officer |
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, this Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the capacities indicated on February 8, 2005.
Signature |
Title(s): |
|
---|---|---|
* Leslie Bider |
Chief Executive Officer (Principal Executive Officer) |
|
* Nick Thomas |
Chief Financial Officer (Principal Financial Officer and Principal Accounting Officer) |
|
* Edgar Bronfman, Jr. |
Director |
|
* Dave Johnson |
Director |
|
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson |
Director |
*By: |
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson Attorney-in-Fact |
II-43
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, Lava Trademark Holding Company LLC has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in the City of New York, state of New York, on February 8, 2005.
LAVA TRADEMARK HOLDING COMPANY LLC | |||
By: |
* |
||
Name: Jason Flom Title: Chief Executive Officer, on behalf of Atlantic Recording Corp. |
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, this Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the capacities indicated on February 8, 2005.
Signature |
Title(s): |
|
---|---|---|
Atlantic Recording Corp. | Sole member | |
* Jason Flom |
Chief Executive Officer, on behalf of Atlantic Recording Corp. (Principal Executive Officer) |
|
* Samantha Schwam |
Chief Financial Officer, on behalf of Atlantic Recording Corp. (Principal Financial Officer and Principal Accounting Officer) |
By: |
* |
|||
Name: | Edgar Bronfman, Jr. | Director of sole member | ||
By: |
* |
|||
Name: | Dave Johnson | Director of sole member | ||
By: |
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON |
|||
Name: | Paul Robinson | Director of sole member |
*By: |
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson Attorney-in-Fact |
II-44
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, LEM America, INC. has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in the City of New York, state of New York, on February 8, 2005.
LEM AMERICA, INC. | |||
By: |
* |
||
Name: Leslie Bider Title: President |
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, this Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the capacities indicated on February 8, 2005.
Signature |
Title(s): |
|
---|---|---|
* Leslie Bider |
President (Principal Executive Officer) |
|
* Nick Thomas |
Chief Financial Officer; Senior Vice President (Principal Financial Officer and Principal Accounting Officer) |
|
* Edgar Bronfman, Jr. |
Director |
|
* Dave Johnson |
Director |
|
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson |
Director |
*By: |
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson Attorney-in-Fact |
II-45
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, London-Sire Records Inc. has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in the City of New York, state of New York, on February 8, 2005.
LONDON-SIRE RECORDS INC. | |||
By: |
* |
||
Name: Lyor Cohen Title: President |
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, this Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the capacities indicated on February 8, 2005.
Signature |
Title(s): |
|
---|---|---|
* Lyor Cohen |
President (Principal Executive Officer) |
|
* Jos de Raaij |
Vice President (Principal Financial Officer and Principal Accounting Officer) |
|
* Edgar Bronfman, Jr. |
Director |
|
* Dave Johnson |
Director |
|
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson |
Director |
*By: |
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson Attorney-in-Fact |
II-46
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, McGuffin Music Inc. has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in the City of New York, state of New York, on February 8, 2005.
MCGUFFIN MUSIC INC. | |||
By: |
* |
||
Name: Leslie Bider Title: President |
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, this Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the capacities indicated on February 8, 2005.
Signature |
Title(s): |
|
---|---|---|
* Leslie Bider |
President (Principal Executive Officer) |
|
* Nick Thomas |
Treasurer; Senior Vice President (Principal Financial Officer and Principal Accounting Officer) |
|
* Edgar Bronfman, Jr. |
Director |
|
* Dave Johnson |
Director |
|
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson |
Director |
*By: |
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson Attorney-in-Fact |
II-47
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, Mixed Bag Music, Inc. has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in the City of New York, state of New York, on February 8, 2005.
MIXED BAG MUSIC, INC. | |||
By: |
* |
||
Name: Leslie Bider Title: President |
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, this Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the capacities indicated on February 8, 2005.
Signature |
Title(s): |
|
---|---|---|
* Leslie Bider |
President (Principal Executive Officer) |
|
* Nick Thomas |
Treasurer; Chief Financial Officer (Principal Financial Officer and Principal Accounting Officer) |
|
* Edgar Bronfman, Jr. |
Director |
|
* Dave Johnson |
Director |
|
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson |
Director |
*By: |
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson Attorney-in-Fact |
II-48
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, NC Hungary Holdings Inc. has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in the City of New York, state of New York, on February 8, 2005.
NC HUNGARY HOLDINGS INC. | |||
By: |
* |
||
Name: Leslie Bider Title: President |
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, this Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the capacities indicated on February 8, 2005.
Signature |
Title(s): |
|
---|---|---|
* Leslie Bider |
President (Principal Executive Officer) |
|
* Jos de Raaij |
Vice President (Principal Financial Officer and Principal Accounting Officer) |
|
* Edgar Bronfman, Jr. |
Director |
|
* Dave Johnson |
Director |
|
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson |
Director |
*By: |
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson Attorney-in-Fact |
II-49
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, New Chappell Inc. has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in the City of New York, state of New York, on February 8, 2005.
NEW CHAPPELL INC. | |||
By: |
* |
||
Name: Leslie Bider Title: Chief Executive Officer and President |
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, this Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the capacities indicated on February 8, 2005.
Signature |
Title(s): |
|
---|---|---|
* Leslie Bider |
President; Chief Executive Officer (Principal Executive Officer) |
|
* Nick Thomas |
Senior Vice President; Chief Financial Officer (Principal Financial Officer and Principal Accounting Officer) |
|
* Edgar Bronfman, Jr. |
Director |
|
* Dave Johnson |
Director |
|
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson |
Director |
*By: |
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson Attorney-in-Fact |
II-50
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, Nonesuch Records Inc. has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in the City of New York, state of New York, on February 8, 2005.
NONESUCH RECORDS INC. | |||
By: |
* |
||
Name: Edgar Bronfman, Jr. Title: Chief Executive Officer |
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, this Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the capacities indicated on February 8, 2005.
Signature |
Title(s): |
|
---|---|---|
* Edgar Bronfman, Jr. |
Chief Executive Officer (Principal Executive Officer) |
|
* Jos de Raaij |
Senior Vice President, Controller and Treasurer (Principal Financial Officer and Principal Accounting Officer) |
|
* Edgar Bronfman, Jr. |
Director |
|
* Dave Johnson |
Director |
|
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson |
Director |
*By: |
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson Attorney-in-Fact |
II-51
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, NVC International Inc. has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in the City of New York, state of New York, on February 8, 2005.
NVC INTERNATIONAL INC. | |||
By: |
* |
||
Name: Scott Pascucci Title: President |
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, this Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the capacities indicated on February 8, 2005.
Signature |
Title(s): |
|
---|---|---|
* Scott Pascucci |
President (Principal Executive Officer) |
|
* Jos de Raaij |
Vice President (Principal Financial Officer and Principal Accounting Officer) |
|
* Edgar Bronfman, Jr. |
Director |
|
* Dave Johnson |
Director |
|
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson |
Director |
*By: |
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson Attorney-in-Fact |
II-52
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, Octa Music, Inc. has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in the City of New York, state of New York, on February 8, 2005.
OCTA MUSIC, INC. | |||
By: |
* |
||
Name: Leslie Bider Title: President |
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, this Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the capacities indicated on February 8, 2005.
Signature |
Title(s): |
|
---|---|---|
* Leslie Bider |
President (Principal Executive Officer) |
|
* Nick Thomas |
Treasurer; Senior Vice President (Principal Financial Officer and Principal Accounting Officer) |
|
* Edgar Bronfman, Jr. |
Director |
|
* Dave Johnson |
Director |
|
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson |
Director |
*By: |
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson Attorney-in-Fact |
II-53
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, Penalty Records L.L.C. has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in the City of New York, state of New York, on February 8, 2005.
PENALTY RECORDS L.L.C. | |||
By: |
* |
||
Name: Scott Pascucci Title: President, on behalf of Tommy Boy Music, Inc. |
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, this Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the capacities indicated on February 8, 2005.
Signature |
Title(s): |
|
---|---|---|
Tommy Boy Music, Inc. | Sole member | |
* Scott Pascucci |
President, on behalf of Tommy Boy Music, Inc. (Principal Executive Officer) |
|
* Jos de Raaij |
Vice President and Treasurer, on behalf of Tommy Boy Music, Inc. (Principal Financial Officer and Principal Accounting Officer) |
By: |
* |
|||
Name: | Edgar Bronfman, Jr. | Director of sole member | ||
By: |
* |
|||
Name: | Dave Johnson | Director of sole member | ||
By: |
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON |
|||
Name: | Paul Robinson | Director of sole member | ||
*By: |
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson Attorney-in-Fact |
II-54
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, Pepamar Music Corp. has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in the City of New York, state of New York, on February 8, 2005.
PEPAMAR MUSIC CORP. | |||
By: |
* |
||
Name: Leslie Bider Title: President and Chairman of the Board |
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, this Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the capacities indicated on February 8, 2005.
Signature |
Title(s): |
|
---|---|---|
* Leslie Bider |
President; Chairman of the Board (Principal Executive Officer) |
|
* Nick Thomas |
Treasurer; Chief Financial Officer (Principal Financial Officer and Principal Accounting Officer) |
|
* Edgar Bronfman, Jr. |
Director |
|
* Dave Johnson |
Director |
|
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson |
Director |
*By: |
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson Attorney-in-Fact |
II-55
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, Revelation Music Publishing Corporation has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in the City of New York, state of New York, on February 8, 2005.
REVELATION MUSIC PUBLISHING CORPORATION |
|||
By: |
* |
||
Name: Leslie Bider Title: President |
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, this Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the capacities indicated on February 8, 2005.
Signature |
Title(s): |
|
---|---|---|
* Leslie Bider |
President (Principal Executive Officer) |
|
* Nick Thomas |
Treasurer; Senior Vice President (Principal Financial Officer and Principal Accounting Officer) |
|
* Edgar Bronfman, Jr. |
Director |
|
* Dave Johnson |
Director |
|
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson |
Director |
*By: |
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson Attorney-in-Fact |
II-56
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, Rhino Entertainment Company has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in the City of New York, state of New York, on February 8, 2005.
RHINO ENTERTAINMENT COMPANY | |||
By: |
* |
||
Name: Scott Pascucci Title: President |
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, this Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the capacities indicated on February 8, 2005.
Signature |
Title(s): |
|
---|---|---|
* Scott Pascucci |
President (Principal Executive Officer) |
|
* Colin Reef |
Vice President; Chief Financial Officer (Principal Financial Officer and Principal Accounting Officer) |
|
* Edgar Bronfman, Jr. |
Director |
|
* Dave Johnson |
Director |
|
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson |
Director |
*By: |
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson Attorney-in-Fact |
II-57
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, Rick's Music Inc. has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in the City of New York, state of New York, on February 8, 2005.
RICK'S MUSIC INC. | |||
By: |
* |
||
Name: Leslie Bider Title: Chief Executive Officer and President |
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, this Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the capacities indicated on February 8, 2005.
Signature |
Title(s): |
|
---|---|---|
* Leslie Bider |
President; Chief Executive Officer (Principal Executive Officer) |
|
* Nick Thomas |
Senior Vice President; Chief Financial Officer (Principal Financial Officer and Principal Accounting Officer) |
|
* Edgar Bronfman, Jr. |
Director |
|
* Dave Johnson |
Director |
|
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson |
Director |
*By: |
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson Attorney-in-Fact |
II-58
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, Rightsong Music Inc. has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in the City of New York, state of New York, on February 8, 2005.
RIGHTSONG MUSIC INC. | |||
By: |
* |
||
Name: Leslie Bider Title: Chief Executive Officer |
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, this Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the capacities indicated on February 8, 2005.
Signature |
Title(s): |
|
---|---|---|
* Leslie Bider |
Chief Executive Officer (Principal Executive Officer) |
|
* Nick Thomas |
Chief Financial Officer (Principal Financial Officer and Principal Accounting Officer) |
|
* Edgar Bronfman, Jr. |
Director |
|
* Dave Johnson |
Director |
|
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson |
Director |
*By: |
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson Attorney-in-Fact |
II-59
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, Rodra Music, Inc. has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in the City of New York, state of New York, on February 8, 2005.
RODRA MUSIC, INC. | |||
By: |
* |
||
Name: Leslie Bider Title: President |
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, this Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the capacities indicated on February 8, 2005.
Signature |
Title(s): |
|
---|---|---|
* Leslie Bider |
President (Principal Executive Officer) |
|
* Nick Thomas |
Chief Financial Officer (Principal Financial Officer and Principal Accounting Officer) |
|
* Edgar Bronfman, Jr. |
Director |
|
* Dave Johnson |
Director |
|
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson |
Director |
*By: |
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson Attorney-in-Fact |
II-60
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, Sea Chime Music, Inc. has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in the City of New York, state of New York, on February 8, 2005.
SEA CHIME MUSIC, INC. | |||
By: |
* |
||
Name: Leslie Bider Title: President |
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, this Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the capacities indicated on February 8, 2005.
Signature |
Title(s): |
|
---|---|---|
* Leslie Bider |
President (Principal Executive Officer) |
|
* Nick Thomas |
Treasurer; Senior Vice President (Principal Financial Officer and Principal Accounting Officer) |
|
* Edgar Bronfman, Jr. |
Director |
|
* Dave Johnson |
Director |
|
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson |
Director |
*By: |
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson Attorney-in-Fact |
II-61
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, SR/MDM Venture Inc. has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in the City of New York, state of New York, on February 8, 2005.
SR/MDM VENTURE INC. | |||
By: |
* |
||
Name: Tom Whalley Title: President |
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, this Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the capacities indicated on February 8, 2005.
Signature |
Title(s): |
|
---|---|---|
* Tom Whalley |
President (Principal Executive Officer) |
|
* Hildi Snodgrass |
Treasurer; Vice President (Principal Financial Officer and Principal Accounting Officer) |
|
* Edgar Bronfman, Jr. |
Director |
|
* Dave Johnson |
Director |
|
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson |
Director |
*By: |
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson Attorney-in-Fact |
II-62
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, Summy-Birchard, Inc. has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in the City of New York, state of New York, on February 8, 2005.
SUMMY-BIRCHARD, INC. | |||
By: |
* |
||
Name: Leslie Bider Title: Chairman of the Board |
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, this Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the capacities indicated on February 8, 2005.
Signature |
Title(s): |
|
---|---|---|
* Leslie Bider |
Chairman of the Board (Principal Executive Officer) |
|
* Nick Thomas |
Treasurer; Senior Vice President (Principal Financial Officer and Principal Accounting Officer) |
|
* Edgar Bronfman, Jr. |
Director |
|
* Dave Johnson |
Director |
|
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson |
Director |
*By: |
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson Attorney-in-Fact |
II-63
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, Super Hype Publishing, Inc. has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in the City of New York, state of New York, on February 8, 2005.
SUPER HYPE PUBLISHING, INC. | |||
By: |
* |
||
Name: Leslie Bider Title: President |
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, this Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the capacities indicated on February 8, 2005.
Signature |
Title(s): |
|
---|---|---|
* Leslie Bider |
President (Principal Executive Officer) |
|
* Nick Thomas |
Treasurer; Vice President (Principal Financial Officer and Principal Accounting Officer) |
|
* Edgar Bronfman, Jr. |
Director |
|
* Dave Johnson |
Director |
|
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson |
Director |
*By: |
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson Attorney-in-Fact |
II-64
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, T-Boy Music L.L.C. has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in the City of New York, state of New York, on February 8, 2005.
T-BOY MUSIC L.L.C. | |||
By: |
* |
||
Name: Scott Pascucci Title: President, on behalf of Tommy Boy Music, Inc. |
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, this Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the capacities indicated on February 8, 2005.
Signature |
Title(s): |
|
---|---|---|
Tommy Boy Music, Inc. | Sole member | |
* Scott Pascucci |
President, on behalf of Tommy Boy Music, Inc. (Principal Executive Officer) |
|
* Jos de Raaij |
Vice President and Treasurer, on behalf of Tommy Boy Music, Inc. (Principal Financial Officer and Principal Accounting Officer) |
By: |
* |
|||
Name: | Edgar Bronfman, Jr. | Director of sole member | ||
By: |
* |
|||
Name: | Dave Johnson | Director of sole member | ||
By: |
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON |
|||
Name: | Paul Robinson | Director of sole member |
*By: |
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson Attorney-in-Fact |
II-65
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, T-Girl Music L.L.C. has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in the City of New York, state of New York, on February 8, 2005.
T-GIRL MUSIC L.L.C. | |||
By: |
* |
||
Name: Scott Pascucci Title: President, on behalf of Tommy Boy Music, Inc. |
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, this Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the capacities indicated on February 8, 2005.
Signature |
Title(s): |
|
---|---|---|
Tommy Boy Music, Inc. | Sole member | |
* Scott Pascucci |
President, on behalf of Tommy Boy Music, Inc. (Principal Executive Officer) |
|
* Jos de Raaij |
Vice President and Treasurer, on behalf of Tommy Boy Music, Inc. (Principal Financial Officer and Principal Accounting Officer) |
By: |
* |
|||
Name: | Edgar Bronfman, Jr. | Director of sole member | ||
By: |
* |
|||
Name: | Dave Johnson | Director of sole member | ||
By: |
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON |
|||
Name: | Paul Robinson | Director of sole member |
*By: |
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson Attorney-in-Fact |
II-66
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, The Rhythm Method Inc. has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in the City of New York, state of New York, on February 8, 2005.
THE RHYTHM METHOD INC. | |||
By: |
* |
||
Name: Scott Pascucci Title: President |
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, this Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the capacities indicated on February 8, 2005.
Signature |
Title(s): |
|
---|---|---|
* Scott Pascucci |
President (Principal Executive Officer) |
|
* Jos de Raaij |
Treasurer; Vice President (Principal Financial Officer and Principal Accounting Officer) |
|
* Edgar Bronfman, Jr. |
Director |
|
* Dave Johnson |
Director |
|
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson |
Director |
*By: |
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson Attorney-in-Fact |
II-67
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, Tommy Boy Music, Inc. has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in the City of New York, state of New York, on February 8, 2005.
TOMMY BOY MUSIC, INC. | |||
By: |
* |
||
Name: Scott Pascucci Title: President |
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, this Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the capacities indicated on February 8, 2005.
Signature |
Title(s): |
|
---|---|---|
* Scott Pascucci |
President (Principal Executive Officer) |
|
* Jos de Raaij |
Treasurer; Vice President (Principal Financial Officer and Principal Accounting Officer) |
|
* Edgar Bronfman, Jr. |
Director |
|
* Dave Johnson |
Director |
|
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson |
Director |
*By: |
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson Attorney-in-Fact |
II-68
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, Tommy Valando Publishing Group, Inc. has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in the City of New York, state of New York, on February 8, 2005.
TOMMY VALANDO PUBLISHING GROUP, INC. | |||
By: |
* |
||
Name: Leslie Bider Title: Chairman of the Board |
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, this Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the capacities indicated on February 8, 2005.
Signature |
Title(s): |
|
---|---|---|
* Leslie Bider |
Chairman of the Board (Principal Executive Officer) |
|
* Nick Thomas |
Treasurer; Chief Financial Officer (Principal Financial Officer and Principal Accounting Officer) |
|
* Edgar Bronfman, Jr. |
Director |
|
* Dave Johnson |
Director |
|
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson |
Director |
*By: |
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson Attorney-in-Fact |
II-69
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, Tri-Chappell Music Inc. has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in the City of New York, state of New York, on February 8, 2005.
TRI-CHAPPELL MUSIC INC. | |||
By: |
* |
||
Name: Leslie Bider Title: Chief Executive Officer |
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, this Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the capacities indicated on February 8, 2005.
Signature |
Title(s): |
|
---|---|---|
* Leslie Bider |
Chief Executive Officer (Principal Executive Officer) |
|
* Nick Thomas |
Senior Vice President; Chief Financial Officer (Principal Financial Officer and Principal Accounting Officer) |
|
* Edgar Bronfman, Jr. |
Director |
|
* Dave Johnson |
Director |
|
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson |
Director |
*By: |
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson Attorney-in-Fact |
II-70
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, TW Music Holdings Inc. has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in the City of New York, state of New York, on February 8, 2005.
TW MUSIC HOLDINGS INC. | |||
By: |
* |
||
Name: Dave Johnson Title: Vice President |
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, this Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the capacities indicated on February 8, 2005.
Signature |
Title(s): |
|
---|---|---|
* Dave Johnson |
Vice President (Principal Executive Officer) |
|
* Jos de Raaij |
Treasurer; Vice President (Principal Financial Officer and Principal Accounting Officer) |
|
* Edgar Bronfman, Jr. |
Director |
|
* Dave Johnson |
Director |
|
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson |
Director |
*By: |
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson Attorney-in-Fact |
II-71
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, Unichappell Music Inc. has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in the City of New York, state of New York, on February 8, 2005.
UNICHAPPELL MUSIC INC. | |||
By: |
* |
||
Name: Leslie Bider Title: Chief Executive Officer and President |
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, this Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the capacities indicated on February 8, 2005.
Signature |
Title(s): |
|
---|---|---|
* Leslie Bider |
President; Chief Executive Officer (Principal Executive Officer) |
|
* Nick Thomas |
Senior Vice President; Chief Financial Officer (Principal Financial Officer) |
|
* Edgar Bronfman, Jr. |
Director |
|
* Dave Johnson |
Director |
|
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson |
Director |
*By: |
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson Attorney-in-Fact |
II-72
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, W.B.M. Music Corp. has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in the City of New York, state of New York, on February 8, 2005.
W.B.M. MUSIC CORP. | |||
By: |
* |
||
Name: Leslie Bider Title: President |
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, this Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the capacities indicated on February 8, 2005.
Signature |
Title(s): |
|
---|---|---|
* Leslie Bider |
President (Principal Executive Officer) |
|
* Nick Thomas |
Treasurer (Principal Financial Officer and Principal Accounting Officer) |
|
* Edgar Bronfman, Jr. |
Director |
|
* Dave Johnson |
Director |
|
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson |
Director |
*By: |
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson Attorney-in-Fact |
II-73
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, Walden Music, Inc. has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in the City of New York, state of New York, on February 8, 2005.
WALDEN MUSIC, INC. | |||
By: |
* |
||
Name: Leslie Bider Title: President |
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, this Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the capacities indicated on February 8, 2005.
Signature |
Title(s): |
|
---|---|---|
* Leslie Bider |
President; (Principal Executive Officer) |
|
* Nick Thomas |
Treasurer; Vice President (Principal Financial Officer and Principal Accounting Officer) |
|
* Edgar Bronfman, Jr. |
Director |
|
* Dave Johnson |
Director |
|
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson |
Director |
*By: |
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson Attorney-in-Fact |
II-74
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, Warner Alliance Music Inc. has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in the City of New York, state of New York, on February 8, 2005.
WARNER ALLIANCE MUSIC INC. | |||
By: |
* |
||
Name: Leslie Bider Title: President |
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, this Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the capacities indicated on February 8, 2005.
Signature |
Title(s): |
|
---|---|---|
* Leslie Bider |
President (Principal Executive Officer) |
|
* Nick Thomas |
Chief Operating Officer; Chief Financial Officer (Principal Financial Officer and Principal Accounting Officer) |
|
* Edgar Bronfman, Jr. |
Director |
|
* Dave Johnson |
Director |
|
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson |
Director |
*By: |
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson Attorney-in-Fact |
II-75
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, Warner Brethren Inc. has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in the City of New York, state of New York, on February 8, 2005.
WARNER BRETHREN INC. | |||
By: |
* |
||
Name: Leslie Bider Title: Chief Executive Officer |
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, this Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the capacities indicated on February 8, 2005.
Signature |
Title(s): |
|
---|---|---|
* Leslie Bider |
Chief Executive Officer (Principal Executive Officer) |
|
* Nick Thomas |
Chief Operating Officer; Chief Financial Officer (Principal Financial Officer and Principal Accounting Officer) |
|
* Edgar Bronfman, Jr. |
Director |
|
* Dave Johnson |
Director |
|
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson |
Director |
*By: |
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson Attorney-in-Fact |
II-76
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, Warner Bros. Music International Inc. has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in the City of New York, state of New York, on February 8, 2005.
WARNER BROS. MUSIC INTERNATIONAL INC. | |||
By: |
* |
||
Name: Leslie Bider Title: President |
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, this Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the capacities indicated on February 8, 2005.
Signature |
Title(s): |
|
---|---|---|
* Leslie Bider |
President (Principal Executive Officer) |
|
* Nick Thomas |
Treasurer; Chief Financial Officer (Principal Financial Officer and Principal Accounting Officer) |
|
* Edgar Bronfman, Jr. |
Director |
|
* Dave Johnson |
Director |
|
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson |
Director |
*By: |
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson Attorney-in-Fact |
II-77
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, Warner Bros. Publications U.S. Inc. has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in the City of New York, state of New York, on February 8, 2005.
WARNER BROS. PUBLICATIONS U.S. INC. | |||
By: |
* |
||
Name: Leslie Bider Title: Chairman of the Board |
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, this Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the capacities indicated on February 8, 2005.
Signature |
Title(s): |
|
---|---|---|
* Leslie Bider |
Chairman of the Board (Principal Executive Officer) |
|
* Nick Thomas |
Treasurer; Chief Financial Officer (Principal Financial Officer and Principal Accounting Officer) |
|
* Edgar Bronfman, Jr. |
Director |
|
* Dave Johnson |
Director |
|
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson |
Director |
*By: |
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson Attorney-in-Fact |
II-78
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, MM Investment Inc. has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in the City of New York, state of New York, on February 8, 2005.
MM INVESTMENT INC. | |||
By: |
* |
||
Name: Tom Whalley Title: Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer |
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, this Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the capacities indicated on February 8, 2005.
Signature |
Title(s): |
|
---|---|---|
* Tom Whalley |
Chairman of the Board; Chief Executive Officer (Principal Executive Officer) |
|
* Hildi Snodgrass |
Vice President (Principal Financial Officer and Principal Accounting Officer) |
|
* Edgar Bronfman, Jr. |
Director |
|
* Dave Johnson |
Director |
|
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson |
Director |
*By: |
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson Attorney-in-Fact |
II-79
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, Warner Custom Music Corp. has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in the City of New York, state of New York, on February 8, 2005.
WARNER CUSTOM MUSIC CORP. | |||
By: |
* |
||
Name: Edgar Bronfman, Jr. Title: President |
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, this Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the capacities indicated on February 8, 2005.
Signature |
Title(s): |
|
---|---|---|
* Edgar Bronfman, Jr. |
President (Principal Executive Officer) |
|
Paul Robinson |
Vice President (Principal Financial Officer and Principal Accounting Officer) |
|
* Edgar Bronfman, Jr. |
Director |
|
* Dave Johnson |
Director |
|
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson |
Director |
*By: |
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson Attorney-in-Fact |
II-80
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, Warner Domain Music Inc. has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in the City of New York, state of New York, on February 8, 2005.
WARNER DOMAIN MUSIC INC. | |||
By: |
* |
||
Name: Leslie Bider Title: President |
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, this Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the capacities indicated on February 8, 2005.
Signature |
Title(s): |
|
---|---|---|
* Leslie Bider |
President (Principal Executive Officer) |
|
* Nick Thomas |
Treasurer; Senior Vice President (Principal Financial Officer and Principal Accounting Officer) |
|
* Edgar Bronfman, Jr. |
Director |
|
* Dave Johnson |
Director |
|
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson |
Director |
*By: |
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson Attorney-in-Fact |
II-81
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, MM Investment Inc. (fka Warner Music Bluesky Holding Inc.) has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in the City of New York, state of New York, on February 8, 2005.
MM INVESTMENT INC. | |||
By: |
* |
||
Name: Edgar Bronfman, Jr. Title: President |
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, this Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the capacities indicated on February 8, 2005.
Signature |
Title(s): |
|
---|---|---|
* Edgar Bronfman, Jr. |
President (Principal Executive Officer) |
|
Paul Robinson |
Vice President (Principal Financial Officer and Principal Accounting Officer) |
|
* Edgar Bronfman, Jr. |
Director |
|
* Dave Johnson |
Director |
|
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson |
Director |
*By: |
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson Attorney-in-Fact |
II-82
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, Warner Music Discovery Inc. has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in the City of New York, state of New York, on February 8, 2005.
WARNER MUSIC DISCOVERY INC. | |||
By: |
* |
||
Name: Scott Pascucci Title: President |
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, this Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the capacities indicated on February 8, 2005.
Signature |
Title(s): |
|
---|---|---|
* Scott Pascucci |
President (Principal Executive Officer) |
|
* Jos de Raaij |
Treasurer; Vice President (Principal Financial Officer and Principal Accounting Officer) |
|
* Edgar Bronfman, Jr. |
Director |
|
* Dave Johnson |
Director |
|
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson |
Director |
*By: |
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson Attorney-in-Fact |
II-83
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, Warner Music Distribution Inc. has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in the City of New York, state of New York, on February 8, 2005.
WARNER MUSIC DISTRIBUTION INC. | |||
By: |
* |
||
Name: Dave Johnson Title: Vice President |
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, this Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the capacities indicated on February 8, 2005.
Signature |
Title(s): |
|
---|---|---|
* Dave Johnson |
Vice President (Principal Executive Officer) |
|
* Jos de Raaij |
Vice President; Treasurer (Principal Financial Officer and Principal Accounting Officer) |
|
* Edgar Bronfman, Jr. |
Director |
|
* Dave Johnson |
Director |
|
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson |
Director |
*By: |
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson Attorney-in-Fact |
II-84
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, Warner Music Group Inc. has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in the City of New York, state of New York, on February 8, 2005.
WARNER MUSIC GROUP INC. | |||
By: |
* |
||
Name: Edgar Bronfman, Jr. Title: Chief Executive Officer |
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, this Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the capacities indicated on February 8, 2005.
Signature |
Title(s): |
|
---|---|---|
* Edgar Bronfman, Jr. |
Chief Executive Officer (Principal Executive Officer) |
|
* Jos de Raaij |
Controller; Treasurer; Senior Vice President (Principal Financial Officer and Principal Accounting Officer) |
|
* Edgar Bronfman, Jr. |
Director |
|
* Dave Johnson |
Director |
|
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson |
Director |
*By: |
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson Attorney-in-Fact |
II-85
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, Warner Music Latina Inc. has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in the City of New York, state of New York, on February 8, 2005.
WARNER MUSIC LATINA INC. | |||
By: |
* |
||
Name: Inigo Zabala Title: President |
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, this Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the capacities indicated on February 8, 2005.
Signature |
Title(s): |
|
---|---|---|
* Inigo Zabala |
President (Principal Executive Officer) |
|
* Anthony Bown |
Treasurer (Principal Financial Officer and Principal Accounting Officer) |
|
* Edgar Bronfman, Jr. |
Director |
|
* Dave Johnson |
Director |
|
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson |
Director |
*By: |
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson Attorney-in-Fact |
II-86
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, Warner Music SP Inc. has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in the City of New York, state of New York, on February 8, 2005.
WARNER MUSIC SP INC. | |||
By: |
* |
||
Name: Lyor Cohen Title: Chief Executive Officer |
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, this Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the capacities indicated on February 8, 2005.
Signature |
Title(s): |
|
---|---|---|
* Lyor Cohen |
Chief Executive Officer (Principal Executive Officer) |
|
* Jos de Raaij |
Vice President (Principal Financial Officer and Principal Accounting Officer) |
|
* Edgar Bronfman, Jr. |
Director |
|
* Dave Johnson |
Director |
|
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson |
Director |
*By: |
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson Attorney-in-Fact |
II-87
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, Warner Sojourner Music Inc. has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in the City of New York, state of New York, on February 8, 2005.
WARNER SOJOURNER MUSIC INC. | |||
By: |
* |
||
Name: Leslie Bider Title: President |
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, this Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the capacities indicated on February 8, 2005.
Signature |
Title(s): |
|
---|---|---|
* Leslie Bider |
President (Principal Executive Officer) |
|
* Nick Thomas |
Treasurer; Senior Vice President (Principal Financial Officer and Principal Accounting Officer) |
|
* Edgar Bronfman, Jr. |
Director |
|
* Dave Johnson |
Director |
|
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson |
Director |
*By: |
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson Attorney-in-Fact |
II-88
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, Warner Special Products Inc. has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in the City of New York, state of New York, on February 8, 2005.
WARNER SPECIAL PRODUCTS INC. | |||
By: |
* |
||
Name: Scott Pascucci Title: Chief Executive Officer and President |
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, this Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the capacities indicated on February 8, 2005.
Signature |
Title(s): |
|
---|---|---|
* Scott Pascucci |
President; Chief Executive Officer (Principal Executive Officer) |
|
* Jos de Raaij |
Treasurer; Vice President (Principal Financial Officer and Principal Accounting Officer) |
|
* Edgar Bronfman, Jr. |
Director |
|
* Dave Johnson |
Director |
|
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson |
Director |
*By: |
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson Attorney-in-Fact |
II-89
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, WarnerSongs Inc. has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in the City of New York, state of New York, on February 8, 2005.
WARNERSONGS INC. | |||
By: |
* |
||
Name: Name: Leslie Bider Title: Chief Executive Officer |
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, this Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the capacities indicated on February 8, 2005.
Signature |
Title(s): |
|
---|---|---|
* Leslie Bider |
Chief Executive Officer (Principal Executive Officer) |
|
* Nick Thomas |
Chief Financial Officer (Principal Financial Officer and Principal Accounting Officer) |
|
* Edgar Bronfman, Jr. |
Director |
|
* Dave Johnson |
Director |
|
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson |
Director |
*By: |
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson Attorney-in-Fact |
II-90
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, Warner Strategic Marketing Inc. has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in the City of New York, state of New York, on February 8, 2005.
WARNER STRATEGIC MARKETING INC. | |||
By: |
* |
||
Name: Scott Pascucci Title: President |
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, this Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the capacities indicated on February 8, 2005.
Signature |
Title(s): |
|
---|---|---|
* Scott Pascucci |
President (Principal Executive Officer) |
|
* Colin Reef |
Chief Financial Officer (Principal Financial Officer and Principal Accounting Officer) |
|
* Edgar Bronfman, Jr. |
Director |
|
* Dave Johnson |
Director |
|
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson |
Director |
*By: |
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson Attorney-in-Fact |
II-91
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, Warner-Elektra-Atlantic Corporation has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in the City of New York, state of New York, on February 8, 2005.
WARNER-ELEKTRA-ATLANTIC CORPORATION | |||
By: |
* |
||
Name: John Esposito Title: President |
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, this Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the capacities indicated on February 8, 2005.
Signature |
Title(s): |
|
---|---|---|
* John Esposito |
President (Principal Executive Officer) |
|
* Gillian Kellie |
Chief Financial Officer (Principal Financial Officer and Principal Accounting Officer) |
|
* Edgar Bronfman, Jr. |
Director |
|
* Dave Johnson |
Director |
|
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson |
Director |
*By: |
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson Attorney-in-Fact |
II-92
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, Warner-Tamerlane Publishing Corp. has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in the City of New York, state of New York, on February 8, 2005.
WARNER-TAMERLANE PUBLISHING CORP. | |||
By: |
* |
||
Name: Leslie Bider Title: President |
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, this Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the capacities indicated on February 8, 2005.
Signature |
Title(s): |
|
---|---|---|
* Leslie Bider |
President (Principal Executive Officer) |
|
* Nick Thomas |
Treasurer; Chief Financial Officer (Principal Financial Officer and Principal Accounting Officer) |
|
* Edgar Bronfman, Jr. |
Director |
|
* Dave Johnson |
Director |
|
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson |
Director |
*By: |
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson Attorney-in-Fact |
II-93
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, Warner/Chappell Music (Services), Inc. has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in the City of New York, state of New York, on February 8, 2005.
WARNER/CHAPPELL MUSIC (SERVICES), INC. | |||
By: |
* |
||
Name: Leslie Bider Title: Chief Executive Officer and President |
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, this Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the capacities indicated on February 8, 2005.
Signature |
Title(s): |
|
---|---|---|
* Leslie Bider |
President; Chief Executive Officer (Principal Executive Officer) |
|
* Nick Thomas |
Treasurer; Chief Financial Officer (Principal Financial Officer and Principal Accounting Officer) |
|
* Edgar Bronfman, Jr. |
Director |
|
* Dave Johnson |
Director |
|
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson |
Director |
*By: |
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson Attorney-in-Fact |
II-94
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, Warner/Chappell Music, Inc. has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in the City of New York, state of New York, on February 8, 2005.
WARNER/CHAPPELL MUSIC, INC. | |||
By: |
* |
||
Name: Leslie Bider Title: Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer |
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, this Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the capacities indicated on February 8, 2005.
Signature |
Title(s) |
|
---|---|---|
* Leslie Bider |
Chairman of the Board; Chief Executive Officer (Principal Executive Officer) |
|
* Nick Thomas |
Chief Operating Officer; Chief Financial Officer (Principal Financial Officer and Principal Accounting Officer) |
|
* Edgar Bronfman, Jr. |
Director |
|
* Dave Johnson |
Director |
|
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson |
Director |
*By: |
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson Attorney-in-Fact |
II-95
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, Warprise Music Inc. has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in the City of New York, state of New York, on February 8, 2005.
WARPRISE MUSIC INC. | |||
By: |
* |
||
Name: Leslie Bider Title: President |
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, this Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the capacities indicated on February 8, 2005.
Signature |
Title(s) |
|
---|---|---|
* Leslie Bider |
President (Principal Executive Officer) |
|
* Nick Thomas |
Treasurer; Senior Vice President (Principal Financial Officer and Principal Accounting Officer) |
|
* Edgar Bronfman, Jr. |
Director |
|
* Dave Johnson |
Director |
|
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson |
Director |
*By: |
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson Attorney-in-Fact |
II-96
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, WB Gold Music Corp. has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in the City of New York, state of New York, on February 8, 2005.
WB GOLD MUSIC CORP. | |||
By: |
* |
||
Name: Leslie Bider Title: President |
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, this Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the capacities indicated on February 8, 2005.
Signature |
Title(s) |
|
---|---|---|
* Leslie Bider |
President (Principal Executive Officer) |
|
* Nick Thomas |
Treasurer (Principal Financial Officer and Principal Accounting Officer) |
|
* Edgar Bronfman, Jr. |
Director |
|
* Dave Johnson |
Director |
|
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson |
Director |
*By: |
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson Attorney-in-Fact |
II-97
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, WB Music Corp. has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in the City of New York, state of New York, on February 8, 2005.
WB MUSIC CORP. | |||
By: |
* |
||
Name: Leslie Bider Title: President |
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, this Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the capacities indicated on February 8, 2005.
Signature |
Title(s) |
|
---|---|---|
* Leslie Bider |
President (Principal Executive Officer) | |
* Nick Thomas |
Treasurer; Chief Financial Officer (Principal Financial Officer and Principal Accounting Officer) |
|
* Edgar Bronfman, Jr. |
Director |
|
* Dave Johnson |
Director |
|
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson |
Director |
*By: |
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson Attorney-in-Fact |
II-98
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, WBM/House of Gold Music, Inc. has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in the City of New York, state of New York, on February 8, 2005.
WBM/HOUSE OF GOLD MUSIC, INC. | |||
By: |
* |
||
Name: Leslie Bider Title: President |
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, this Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the capacities indicated on February 8, 2005.
Signature |
Title(s) |
|
---|---|---|
* Leslie Bider |
President (Principal Executive Officer) |
|
* Nick Thomas |
Treasurer; Senior Vice President (Principal Financial Officer and Principal Accounting Officer) |
|
* Edgar Bronfman, Jr. |
Director |
|
* Dave Johnson |
Director |
|
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson |
Director |
*By: |
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson Attorney-in-Fact |
II-99
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, WBPI Holdings LLC has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in the City of New York, state of New York, on February 8, 2005.
WBPI HOLDINGS LLC | |||
By: |
* |
||
Name: Leslie Bider Title: Chairman of the Board, on behalf of Warner Bros. Publications U.S. Inc. |
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, this Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the capacities indicated on February 8, 2005.
Signature |
Title(s) |
|
---|---|---|
Warner Bros. Publications U.S. Inc. | Sole member | |
* Leslie Bider |
Chairman of the Board, on behalf of Warner Bros. Publications U.S. Inc. (Principal Executive Officer) |
|
* Nick Thomas |
Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer, on behalf of Warner Bros. Publications U.S. Inc. (Principal Financial Officer and Principal Accounting Officer) |
By: |
* |
|||
Name: | Edgar Bronfman, Jr. | Director of sole member | ||
By: |
* |
|||
Name: | Dave Johnson | Director of sole member | ||
By: |
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON |
|||
Name: | Paul Robinson | Director of sole member |
*By: |
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson Attorney-in-Fact |
II-100
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, WBR Management Services Inc. has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in the City of New York, state of New York, on February 8, 2005.
WBR MANAGEMENT SERVICES INC. | |||
By: |
* |
||
Name: Tom Whalley Title: President |
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, this Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the capacities indicated on February 8, 2005.
Signature |
Title(s) |
|
---|---|---|
* Tom Whalley |
President (Principal Executive Officer) |
|
* Hildi Snodgrass |
Treasurer (Principal Financial Officer and Principal Accounting Officer) |
|
* Edgar Bronfman, Jr. |
Director |
|
* Dave Johnson |
Director |
|
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson |
Director |
*By: |
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson Attorney-in-Fact |
II-101
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, WBR/QRI Venture, Inc. has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in the City of New York, state of New York, on February 8, 2005.
WBR/QRI VENTURE, INC. | |||
By: |
* |
||
Name: Susan Genco Title: President |
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, this Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the capacities indicated on February 8, 2005.
Signature |
Title(s) |
|
---|---|---|
* Susan Genco |
President (Principal Executive Officer) |
|
* Hildi Snodgrass |
Treasurer (Principal Financial Officer and Principal Accounting Officer) |
|
* Edgar Bronfman, Jr. |
Director |
|
* Dave Johnson |
Director |
|
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson |
Director |
*By: |
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson Attorney-in-Fact |
II-102
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, WBR/Ruffnation Ventures, Inc. has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in the City of New York, state of New York, on February 8, 2005.
WBR/RUFFNATION VENTURES, INC. | |||
By: |
* |
||
Name: Susan Genco Title: President |
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, this Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the capacities indicated on February 8, 2005.
Signature |
Title(s) |
|
---|---|---|
* Susan Genco |
President (Principal Executive Officer) |
|
* Jos de Raaij |
Vice President (Principal Financial Officer and Principal Accounting Officer) |
|
* Edgar Bronfman, Jr. |
Director |
|
* Dave Johnson |
Director |
|
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson |
Director |
*By: |
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson Attorney-in-Fact |
II-103
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, WBR/Sire Ventures Inc. has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in the City of New York, state of New York, on February 8, 2005.
WBR/SIRE VENTURES INC. | |||
By: |
* |
||
Name: Tom Whalley Title: President |
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, this Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the capacities indicated on February 8, 2005.
Signature |
Title(s) |
|
---|---|---|
* Tom Whalley |
President (Principal Executive Officer) |
|
* Hildi Snodgrass |
Vice President (Principal Financial Officer and Principal Accounting Officer) |
|
* Edgar Bronfman, Jr. |
Director |
|
* Dave Johnson |
Director |
|
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson |
Director |
*By: |
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson Attorney-in-Fact |
II-104
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, We Are Musica Inc. has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in the City of New York, state of New York, on February 8, 2005.
WE ARE MUSICA INC. | |||
By: |
* |
||
Name: Leslie Bider Title: President |
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, this Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the capacities indicated on February 8, 2005.
Signature |
Title(s) |
|
---|---|---|
* Leslie Bider |
President (Principal Executive Officer) |
|
* Nick Thomas |
Treasurer; Senior Vice President (Principal Financial Officer and Principal Accounting Officer) |
|
* Edgar Bronfman, Jr. |
Director |
|
* Dave Johnson |
Director |
|
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson |
Director |
*By: |
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson Attorney-in-Fact |
II-105
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, WEA Europe Inc. has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in the City of New York, state of New York, on February 8, 2005.
WEA EUROPE INC. | |||
By: |
* |
||
Name: Paul-Rene Albertini Title: Chairman and President |
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, this Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the capacities indicated on February 8, 2005.
Signature |
Title(s) |
|
---|---|---|
* Paul-Rene Albertini |
Chairman and President (Principal Executive Officer) |
|
* Jos de Raaij |
Vice President (Principal Financial Officer and Principal Accounting Officer) |
|
* Edgar Bronfman, Jr. |
Director |
|
* Dave Johnson |
Director |
|
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson |
Director |
*By: |
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson Attorney-in-Fact |
II-106
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, WEA Inc. has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in the City of New York, state of New York, on February 8, 2005.
WEA INC. | |||
By: |
* |
||
Name: John Esposito Title: President |
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, this Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the capacities indicated on February 8, 2005.
Signature |
Title(s) |
|
---|---|---|
* John Esposito |
President (Principal Executive Officer) |
|
* Jos de Raaij |
Vice President (Principal Financial Officer and Principal Accounting Officer) |
|
* Edgar Bronfman, Jr. |
Director |
|
* Dave Johnson |
Director |
|
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson |
Director |
*By: |
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson Attorney-in-Fact |
II-107
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, WEA International Inc. has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in the City of New York, state of New York, on February 8, 2005.
WEA INTERNATIONAL INC. | |||
By: |
* |
||
Name: Edgar Bronfman, Jr. Title: President |
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, this Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the capacities indicated on February 8, 2005.
Signature |
Title(s) |
|
---|---|---|
* Edgar Bronfman, Jr. |
President (Principal Executive Officer) |
|
* Jos de Raaij |
Vice President (Principal Financial Officer and Principal Accounting Officer) |
|
* Edgar Bronfman, Jr. |
Director |
|
* Dave Johnson |
Director |
|
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson |
Director |
*By: |
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson Attorney-in-Fact |
II-108
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, WEA Latina Musica Inc. has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in the City of New York, state of New York, on February 8, 2005.
WEA LATINA MUSICA INC. | |||
By: |
* |
||
Name: Leslie Bider Title: President |
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, this Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the capacities indicated on February 8, 2005.
Signature |
Title(s) |
|
---|---|---|
* Leslie Bider |
President (Principal Executive Officer) |
|
* Nick Thomas |
Senior Vice President and Treasurer (Principal Financial Officer and Principal Accounting Officer) |
|
* Edgar Bronfman, Jr. |
Director |
|
* Dave Johnson |
Director |
|
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson |
Director |
*By: |
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson Attorney-in-Fact |
II-109
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, WEA Management Services Inc. has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in the City of New York, state of New York, on February 8, 2005.
WEA MANAGEMENT SERVICES INC. | |||
By: |
* |
||
Name: John Esposito Title: President |
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, this Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the capacities indicated on February 8, 2005.
Signature |
Title(s) |
|
---|---|---|
* John Esposito |
President (Principal Executive Officer) |
|
* Jos de Raaij |
Treasurer; Vice President (Principal Financial Officer and Principal Accounting Officer) |
|
* Edgar Bronfman, Jr. |
Director |
|
* Dave Johnson |
Director |
|
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson |
Director |
*By: |
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson Attorney-in-Fact |
II-110
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, Wide Music, Inc. has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in the City of New York, state of New York, on February 8, 2005.
WIDE MUSIC, INC. | |||
By: |
* |
||
Name: Leslie Bider Title: President |
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, this Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the capacities indicated on February 8, 2005.
Signature |
Title(s) |
|
---|---|---|
* Leslie Bider |
President (Principal Executive Officer) |
|
* Nick Thomas |
Treasurer; Senior Vice President (Principal Financial Officer and Principal Accounting Officer) |
|
* Edgar Bronfman, Jr. |
Director |
|
* Dave Johnson |
Director |
|
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson |
Director |
*By: |
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson Attorney-in-Fact |
II-111
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, WEA Rock LLC has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in the City of New York, state of New York, on February 8, 2005.
WEA ROCK LLC | |||
By: |
* |
||
Name: John Esposito Title: President, on behalf of Warner-Elektra-Atlantic Corporation |
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, this Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the capacities indicated on February 8, 2005.
Signature |
Title(s) |
|
---|---|---|
Warner-Elektra-Atlantic Corporation | Sole member | |
* John Esposito |
President, on behalf of Warner- Elektra-Atlantic Corporation (Principal Executive Officer) |
|
* Gillian Kellie |
Chief Financial Officer, on behalf of Warner-Elektra-Atlantic Corporation (Principal Financial Officer and Principal Accounting Officer) |
By: |
* |
|||
Name: | Edgar Bronfman, Jr. | Director of sole member | ||
By: |
* |
|||
Name: | Dave Johnson | Director of sole member | ||
By: |
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON |
|||
Name: | Paul Robinson | Director of sole member |
*By: |
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson Attorney-in-Fact |
II-112
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, WEA Urban LLC has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in the City of New York, state of New York, on February 8, 2005.
WEA URBAN LLC | |||
By: |
* |
||
Name: John Esposito Title: President, on behalf of Warner-Elektra-Atlantic Corporation |
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, this Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the capacities indicated on February 8, 2005.
Signature |
Title(s) |
|
---|---|---|
Warner-Elektra-Atlantic Corporation | Sole member | |
* John Esposito |
President, on behalf of Warner-Elektra-Atlantic Corporation (Principal Executive Officer) |
|
* Gillian Kellie |
Chief Financial Officer, on behalf of Warner-Elektra-Atlantic Corporation (Principal Financial Officer and Principal Accounting Officer) |
By: |
* |
|||
Name: | Edgar Bronfman, Jr. | Director of sole member | ||
By: |
* |
|||
Name: | Dave Johnson | Director of sole member | ||
By: |
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON |
|||
Name: | Paul Robinson | Director of sole member |
*By: |
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson Attorney-in-Fact |
II-113
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, WMG Management Services Inc. has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in the City of New York, state of New York, on February 8, 2005.
WMG MANAGEMENT SERVICES INC. | |||
By: |
* |
||
Name: Edgar Bronfman, Jr. Title: President |
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, this Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the capacities indicated on February 8, 2005.
Signature |
Title(s): |
|
---|---|---|
* Edgar Bronfman, Jr. |
President (Principal Executive Officer) |
|
* Jos de Raaij |
Treasurer; Vice President (Principal Financial Officer and Principal Accounting Officer) |
|
* Edgar Bronfman, Jr. |
Director |
|
* Dave Johnson |
Director |
|
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson |
Director |
*By: |
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson Attorney-in-Fact |
II-114
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, WMG Trademark Holding Company LLC has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in the City of New York, state of New York, on February 8, 2005.
WMG TRADEMARK HOLDING COMPANY LLC | |||
By: |
* |
||
Name: Edgar Bronfman, Jr. Title: Chief Executive Officer, on behalf of Warner Music Group Inc. |
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, this Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the capacities indicated on February 8, 2005.
Signature |
Title(s): |
|
---|---|---|
Warner Music Group, Inc. | Sole member | |
* Edgar Bronfman, Jr. |
Chief Executive Officer, on behalf of Warner Music Group Inc. (Principal Executive Officer) |
|
* Jos de Raaij |
Senior Vice President, Controller and Treasurer, on behalf of Warner Music Group Inc. (Principal Financial Officer and Principal Accounting Officer) |
By: |
* |
|||
Name: | Edgar Bronfman, Jr. | Director of sole member | ||
By: |
* |
|||
Name: | Dave Johnson | Director of sole member | ||
By: |
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON |
|||
Name: | Paul Robinson | Director of sole member |
*By: |
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson Attorney-in-Fact |
II-115
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, WEA Inc. has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in the City of New York, state of New York, on February 8, 2005.
WEA INC. | |||
By: |
* |
||
Name: John Esposito Title: President |
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, this Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the capacities indicated on February 8, 2005.
Signature |
Title(s) |
|
---|---|---|
* John Esposito |
President (Principal Executive Officer) |
|
* Jos de Raaij |
Vice President (Principal Financial Officer and Principal Accounting Officer) |
|
* Edgar Bronfman, Jr. |
Director |
|
* Dave Johnson |
Director |
|
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson |
Director |
*By: |
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson Attorney-in-Fact |
II-116
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, WEA International Inc. has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in the City of New York, state of New York, on February 8, 2005.
WEA INTERNATIONAL INC. | |||
By: |
* |
||
Name: Edgar Bronfman, Jr. Title: President |
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, this Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the capacities indicated on February 8, 2005.
Signature |
Title(s) |
|
---|---|---|
* Edgar Bronfman, Jr. |
President (Principal Executive Officer) |
|
* Jos de Raaij |
Vice President (Principal Financial Officer and Principal Accounting Officer) |
|
* Edgar Bronfman, Jr. |
Director |
|
* Dave Johnson |
Director |
|
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson |
Director |
*By: |
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson Attorney-in-Fact |
II-117
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, WEA Latina Musica Inc. has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in the City of New York, state of New York, on February 8, 2005.
WEA LATINA MUSICA INC. | |||
By: |
* |
||
Name: Leslie Bider Title: President |
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, this Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the capacities indicated on February 8, 2005.
Signature |
Title(s) |
|
---|---|---|
* Leslie Bider |
President (Principal Executive Officer) |
|
* Nick Thomas |
Senior Vice President and Treasurer (Principal Financial Officer and Principal Accounting Officer) |
|
* Edgar Bronfman, Jr. |
Director |
|
* Dave Johnson |
Director |
|
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson |
Director |
*By: |
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson Attorney-in-Fact |
II-118
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, WEA Management Services Inc. has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in the City of New York, state of New York, on February 8, 2005.
WEA MANAGEMENT SERVICES INC. | |||
By: |
* |
||
Name: John Esposito Title: President |
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, this Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the capacities indicated on February 8, 2005.
Signature |
Title(s) |
|
---|---|---|
* John Esposito |
President (Principal Executive Officer) |
|
* Jos de Raaij |
Treasurer; Vice President (Principal Financial Officer and Principal Accounting Officer) |
|
* Edgar Bronfman, Jr. |
Director |
|
* Dave Johnson |
Director |
|
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson |
Director |
*By: |
/s/ PAUL ROBINSON Paul Robinson Attorney-in-Fact |
II-119
Exhibit No. |
Description |
|
---|---|---|
2.1** | Purchase Agreement, dated as of November 24, 2003 between Time Warner Inc. and WMG Acquisition Corp., as amended | |
3.1** | Certificate of Incorporation of A. P. Schmidt Co. | |
3.2** | By-laws of A. P. Schmidt Co. | |
3.3** | Certificate of Formation of Atlantic/143 L.L.C., as amended | |
3.4** | Limited Liability Company Agreement of Atlantic/143 L.L.C. | |
3.5** | Certificate of Incorporation of Atlantic/MR Ventures Inc., as amended | |
3.6** | By-laws of Atlantic/MR Ventures Inc. | |
3.7** | Certificate of Incorporation of Atlantic/MR II Inc., as amended | |
3.8** | By-laws of Atlantic/MR II Inc. | |
3.9** | Certificate of Incorporation of Atlantic Recording Corporation | |
3.10** | By-laws of Atlantic Recording Corporation | |
3.11** | Articles of Incorporation of Berna Music, Inc. | |
3.12** | By-laws of Berna Music, Inc., as amended | |
3.13** | Certificate of Incorporation of Big Beat Records Inc., as amended | |
3.14** | By-laws of Big Beat Records Inc. | |
3.15** | Certificate of Incorporation of Big Tree Recording Corporation, as amended | |
3.16** | By-laws of Big Tree Recording Corporation | |
3.17** | Certificate of Formation of Bute Sound LLC, as amended | |
3.18** | Limited Liability Company Agreement of Bute Sound LLC | |
3.19** | Certificate of Incorporation of Cafe Americana Inc. | |
3.20** | By-laws of Cafe Americana Inc., as amended | |
3.21** | Certificate of Incorporation of Chappell & Intersong Music Group (Australia) Limited | |
3.22** | Term of Reference of Chappell & Intersong Music Group (Australia) Limited | |
3.23** | Certificate of Incorporation of Chappell and Intersong Music Group (Germany) Inc., as amended | |
3.24** | By-laws of Chappell and Intersong Music Group (Germany) Inc. | |
3.25** | Certificate of Incorporation of Chappell Music Company, Inc. | |
3.26** | By-laws of Chappell Music Company, Inc. | |
3.27** | Certificate of Incorporation of Cota Music, Inc. | |
3.28** | By-laws of Cota Music, Inc. | |
3.29** | Certificate of Incorporation of Cotillion Music, Inc. | |
3.30** | By-laws of Cotillion Music, Inc. | |
3.31** | Restated Certificate of Incorporation of CPP/Belwin, Inc. | |
3.32** | By-laws of CPP/Belwin, Inc. | |
3.33** | Certificate of Incorporation of CRK Music Inc., as amended | |
3.34** | By-laws of CRK Music Inc. | |
3.35** | Certificate of Incorporation of E/A Music, Inc. | |
3.36** | By-laws of E/A Music, Inc. | |
3.37** | Certificate of Incorporation of Eleksylum Music, Inc., as amended | |
3.38** | By-laws of Eleksylum Music, Inc. | |
3.39** | Certificate of Incorporation of Elektra/Chameleon Ventures Inc. | |
3.40** | By-laws of Elektra/Chameleon Ventures Inc. | |
3.41** | Certificate of Incorporation of Elektra Entertainment Group Inc. | |
3.42** | By-laws of Elektra Entertainment Group Inc. | |
3.43** | Certificate of Incorporation of Elektra Group Ventures Inc. | |
3.44** | By-laws of Elektra Group Ventures Inc. | |
3.45** | Charter of FHK, Inc. | |
3.46** | By-laws of FHK, Inc. | |
3.47** | Certificate of Incorporation of Fiddleback Music Publishing Company, Inc., as amended | |
3.48** | By-laws of Fiddleback Music Publishing Company, Inc. | |
3.49** | Certificate of Incorporation of Foster Frees Music, Inc. | |
3.50** | By-laws of Foster Frees Music, Inc. | |
3.51** | Certificate of Formation of Foz Man Music LLC, as amended | |
3.52 | LLC Agreement of Foz Man Music LLC | |
3.53** | Certificate of Incorporation of Inside Job, Inc. | |
3.54** | By-laws of Inside Job, Inc. | |
3.55** | Certificate of Incorporation of Intersong U.S.A., Inc. | |
3.56** | By-laws of Intersong U.S.A., Inc. | |
3.57** | Certificate of Incorporation of Jadar Music Corp. | |
3.58** | By-laws of Jadar Music Corp. | |
3.59** | Certificate of Formation of Lava Trademark Holding Company LLC | |
3.60** | Operating Agreement of Lava Trademark Holding Company LLC | |
3.61** | Certificate of Incorporation of LEM America, Inc. | |
3.62** | By-laws of LEM America, Inc. | |
3.63** | Certificate of Incorporation of London-Sire Records Inc., as amended | |
3.64** | By-laws of London-Sire Records Inc. | |
3.65** | Certificate of Incorporation of McGuffin Music Inc. | |
3.66** | By-laws of McGuffin Music Inc. | |
3.67** | Certificate of Incorporation of Mixed Bag Music, Inc. | |
3.68** | By-laws of Mixed Bag Music, Inc. | |
3.69** | Certificate of Incorporation of NC Hungary Holdings Inc., as amended | |
3.70** | By-laws of NC Hungary Holdings Inc. | |
3.71** | Certificate of Incorporation of New Chappell Inc. | |
3.72** | By-laws of New Chappell Inc. | |
3.73** | Certificate of Incorporation of Nonesuch Records Inc. | |
3.74** | By-laws of Nonesuch Records Inc. | |
3.75** | Certificate of Incorporation of NVC International Inc., as amended | |
3.76** | By-laws of NVC International Inc. | |
3.77** | Certificate of Incorporation of Octa Music, Inc. | |
3.78** | By-laws of Octa Music, Inc. | |
3.79** | Certificate of Conversion of Penalty Records, L.L.C. | |
3.80** | Limited Liability Company Agreement of Penalty Records, L.L.C. | |
3.81** | Certificate of Incorporation of Pepamar Music Corp. | |
3.82** | By-laws of Pepamar Music Corp. | |
3.83** | Certificate of Incorporation of Revelation Music Publishing Corporation | |
3.84** | By-laws of Revelation Music Publishing Corporation | |
3.85** | Certificate of Incorporation of Rhino Entertainment Company, as amended | |
3.86** | By-laws of Rhino Entertainment Company | |
3.87** | Certificate of Incorporation of Rick's Music Inc. | |
3.88** | By-laws of Rick's Music Inc. | |
3.89** | Certificate of Incorporation of Rightsong Music Inc. | |
3.90** | By-laws of Rightsong Music Inc. | |
3.91** | Amended and Restated Articles of Incorporation of Rodra Music, Inc. | |
3.92** | By-laws of Rodra Music, Inc. | |
3.93** | Articles of Incorporation of Sea Chime Music, Inc., as amended | |
3.94** | By-laws of Sea Chime Music, Inc. | |
3.95** | Certificate of Incorporation of SR/MDM Venture Inc. | |
3.96** | By-laws of SR/MDM Venture Inc. | |
3.97** | Certificate of Incorporation of Super Hype Publishing, Inc. | |
3.98** | By-laws of Super Hype Publishing, Inc. | |
3.99** | Certificate of Incorporation of Summy-Birchard, Inc., as amended | |
3.100** | By-laws of Summy-Birchard, Inc. | |
3.101** | Articles of Organization of T-Boy Music, L.L.C. | |
3.102** | Articles of Organization of T-Girl Music, L.L.C. | |
3.103** | Certificate of Incorporation of The Rhythm Method Inc. | |
3.104** | By-laws of The Rhythm Method Inc. | |
3.105** | Certificate of Incorporation of Tommy Boy Music, Inc. | |
3.106** | By-laws of Tommy Boy Music, Inc. | |
3.107** | Certificate of Incorporation of Tommy Valando Publishing Group, Inc., as amended | |
3.108** | By-laws of Tommy Valando Publishing Group, Inc. | |
3.109** | Certificate of Incorporation of Tri-Chappell Music Inc. | |
3.110** | By-laws of Tri-Chappell Music Inc. | |
3.111** | Certificate of Incorporation of TW Music Holdings Inc. | |
3.112** | By-laws of TW Music Holdings Inc. | |
3.113** | Certificate of Incorporation of Unichappell Music Inc. | |
3.114** | By-laws of Unichappell Music Inc. | |
3.115** | Certificate of Incorporation of W.B.M. Music Corp. | |
3.116** | By-laws of W.B.M. Music Corp. | |
3.117** | Certificate of Incorporation of Walden Music Inc. | |
3.118** | By-laws of Walden Music Inc. | |
3.119** | Certificate of Incorporation of Warner Alliance Music Inc. | |
3.120** | By-laws of Warner Alliance Music Inc. | |
3.121** | Certificate of Incorporation of Warner Brethren Inc., as amended | |
3.122** | By-laws of Warner Brethren Inc. | |
3.123** | Certificate of Incorporation of Warner Bros. Music International Inc. | |
3.124** | By-laws of Warner Bros. Music International Inc. | |
3.125** | Certificate of Incorporation Warner Bros. Publications U.S. Inc., as amended | |
3.126** | By-laws of Warner Bros. Publications U.S. Inc. | |
3.127** | Certificate of Incorporation of Warner Bros. Records Inc., as amended | |
3.128** | By-laws of Warner Bros. Records Inc. | |
3.129** | Certificate of Incorporation of Warner/Chappell Music, Inc., as amended | |
3.130** | By-laws of Warner/Chappell Music, Inc. | |
3.131** | Certificate of Incorporation of Warner/Chappell Music (Services), Inc. | |
3.132** | By-laws of Warner/Chappell Music (Services), Inc. | |
3.133** | Articles of Incorporation of Warner Custom Music Corp., as amended | |
3.134** | By-laws of Warner Custom Music Corp. | |
3.135** | Certificate of Incorporation of Warner Domain Music Inc. | |
3.136** | By-laws of Warner Domain Music Inc. | |
3.137** | Certificate of Incorporation of Warner-Elektra-Atlantic Corporation | |
3.138** | By-laws of Warner-Elektra-Atlantic Corporation | |
3.139** | Certificate of Incorporation of MM Investment Inc. and amendment thereto (fka Warner Music Bluesky Holding Inc.) | |
3.140** | By-laws of MM Investment Inc. (fka Warner Music Bluesky Holding Inc.) | |
3.141** | Certificate of Incorporation of Warner Music Discovery Inc. | |
3.142** | By-laws of Warner Music Discovery Inc. | |
3.143** | Certificate of Incorporation of Warner Music Distribution Inc. | |
3.144** | By-laws of Warner Music Distribution Inc. | |
3.145** | Certificate of Incorporation of Warner Music Group Inc. | |
3.146** | By-laws of Warner Music Group Inc. | |
3.147** | Certificate of Incorporation of Warner Music Latina Inc., as amended | |
3.148** | By-laws of Warner Music Latina Inc. | |
3.149** | Certificate of Incorporation of Warner Sojourner Music Inc. | |
3.150** | By-laws of Warner Sojourner Music Inc. | |
3.151** | Certificate of Incorporation of WarnerSongs, Inc., as amended | |
3.152** | By-laws of WarnerSongs, Inc., as amended | |
3.153** | Certificate of Incorporation of Warner Music SP Inc. | |
3.154** | By-laws of Warner Music SP Inc. | |
3.155** | Certificate of Incorporation of Warner Special Products Inc. | |
3.156** | By-laws of Warner Special Products Inc. | |
3.157** | Certificate of Incorporation of Warner Strategic Marketing Inc. | |
3.158** | By-laws of Warner Strategic Marketing Inc. | |
3.159** | Articles of Incorporation of Warner-Tamerlane Publishing Corp. | |
3.160** | By-laws of Warner-Tamerlane Publishing Corp. | |
3.161** | Certificate of Incorporation of Warprise Music Inc. | |
3.162** | By-laws of Warprise Music Inc. | |
3.163** | Certificate of Incorporation of WB Gold Music Corp. | |
3.164** | By-laws of WB Gold Music Corp. | |
3.165** | Articles of Incorporation of WB Music Corp. | |
3.166** | By-laws of WB Music Corp. | |
3.167** | Certificate of Incorporation of WBM/House of Gold Music, Inc., as amended | |
3.168** | By-laws of WBM/House of Gold Music, Inc. | |
3.169** | Certificate of Formation of WBPI Holdings LLC | |
3.170** | LLC Agreement of WBPI Holdings LLC | |
3.171** | Certificate of Incorporation of WBR Management Services Inc. | |
3.172** | By-laws of WBR Management Services Inc. | |
3.173** | Certificate of Incorporation of WBR/QRI Venture, Inc., as amended | |
3.174** | By-laws of WBR/QRI Venture, Inc. | |
3.175** | Certificate of Incorporation of WBR/Ruffnation Ventures, Inc. | |
3.176** | By-laws of WBR/Ruffnation Ventures, Inc. | |
3.177** | Certificate of Incorporation of WBR/Sire Ventures Inc. | |
3.178** | By-laws of WBR/Sire Ventures Inc. | |
3.179** | Certificate of Incorporation of We Are Musica Inc. | |
3.180** | By-laws of We Are Musica Inc. | |
3.181** | Certificate of Incorporation of WEA Europe Inc., as amended | |
3.182** | By-laws of WEA Europe Inc. | |
3.183** | Certificate of Incorporation of WEA Inc. | |
3.184** | By-laws of WEA Inc. | |
3.185** | Certificate of Incorporation of WEA International Inc. | |
3.186** | By-laws of WEA International Inc. | |
3.187** | Certificate of Incorporation of WEA Latina Music Inc. | |
3.188** | By-laws of WEA Latina Music Inc. | |
3.189** | Certificate of Incorporation of WEA Management Services Inc., as amended | |
3.190** | By-laws of WEA Management Services Inc. | |
3.191** | Certificate of Formation of WEA Rock LLC | |
3.192** | Limited Liability Company Agreement of WEA Rock LLC | |
3.193** | Certificate of Formation of WEA Urban LLC | |
3.194** | Limited Liability Company Agreement of WEA Urban LLC | |
3.195** | Certificate of Incorporation of WMG Management Services Inc., as amended | |
3.196** | Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of WMG Acquisition Corp. | |
3.197** | Amended and Restated By-laws WMG Acquisition Corp. | |
3.198** | By-laws of WMG Management Services Inc. | |
3.199** | Articles of Incorporation of Wide Music, Inc., as amended | |
3.200** | By-laws of Wide Music, Inc., as amended | |
3.201** | Certificate of Formation of WMG Trademark Holding Company LLC | |
3.202** | Limited Liability Company Agreement of WMG Trademark Holding Company LLC | |
3.203** | Limited Liability Company Agreement of T-Boy Music, L.L.C. | |
3.204** | Limited Liability Company Agreement of T-Girl Music, L.L.C. | |
4.1** | Indenture, dated as of April 8, 2004, among WMG Acquisition Corp., the Guarantors named therein and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association | |
4.2** | First Supplemental Indenture, dated as of November 16, 2004, among WMG Acquisition Corp., Wells Fargo Bank, National Association, as Trustee, WEA Urban LLC and WEA Rock LLC | |
4.3** | Registration Rights Agreement dated as of April 8, 2004, among WMG Acquisition Corp., the Guarantors named therein and the Initial Purchasers named therein | |
5.1** | Opinion of Simpson Thacher & Bartlett LLP | |
5.2 | Opinion of Gelfand Stein & Wasson LLP | |
5.3 | Opinion of McCarter & English LLP | |
5.4 | Opinion of Holland & Hart LLP | |
5.5 | Opinion of Baker, Donelson, Bearman, Caldwell & Berkowitz, PC | |
10.1** | Amended and Restated Credit Agreement, dated as of April 8, 2004, among WMG Acquisition Corp., the Overseas Borrowers from time to time party thereto, MG Holdings Corp., each lender from time to time party thereto Banc of America Securities LLC and Deutsche Bank Securities Inc., as Joint Lead Arrangers and Joint Book Managers, Lehman Brothers Inc. and Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith Incorporated, as Co-Arrangers and Joint Book Managers, Deutsche Bank Securities Inc. and Lehman Commercial Paper Inc., as Co-Syndication Agents, Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith Incorporated, as Documentation Agent, and Bank of America, N.A., as Administrative Agent, Swing Line Lender and L/C Issuer. | |
10.2** | Amendment No. 1 to the Credit Agreement, dated as of September 30, 2004, among WMG Acquisition Corp., the Overseas Borrowers party thereto, WMG Holdings Corp., the lenders party thereto, Banc of America Securities LLC and Deutsche Bank Securities Inc., as joint lead arrangers and joint book managers and various other parties | |
10.3** | Amendment No. 2 to the Credit Agreement, dated as of December 6, 2004, among WMG Acquisition Corp., the Overseas Borrowers party thereto, WMG Holdings Corp., the lenders party thereto, Banc of America Securities LLC and Deutsche Bank Securities Inc., as joint lead arrangers and joint book managers and various other parties | |
10.4** | Security Agreement, dated as of February 27, 2004, from the Grantors named to therein to Bank of America, N.A. | |
10.5** | Subsidiary Guaranty, dated as of February 27, 2004, from the Guarantors named therein and the Additional Guarantors named therein in favor of the Secured Parties named in the Credit Agreement referred to therein | |
10.6** | Parent Guaranty, dated as of February 27, 2004, from WMG Holdings Corp. in favor of the Secured Parties named in the Credit Agreement referred to therein | |
10.7** | Company Guaranty, dated as of February 27, 2004, from WMG Acquisition Corp. in favor of the Secured Parties named in the Credit Agreement referred to therein | |
10.8** | Deed of Trust, Security Agreement, Assignment of Rents and Leases and Fixture Filing (Tennessee) by and from Warner Bros. Records, Inc. to Kay B. Housch in favor of Bank of America, N.A., dated as of February 29, 2004 (20, 24, 26 Music Square East) | |
10.9** | Deed of Trust, Security Agreement, Assignment of Rents and Leases and Fixture Filing (Tennessee) by and from Warner Bros. Records, Inc. to Kay B. Housch in favor of Bank of America, N.A., dated as of February 29, 2004 (21 Music Square East) | |
10.10** | Deed of Trust, Security Agreement, Assignment of Rents and Leases and Fixture Filing (California) by and from Warner Bros. Records, Inc. to MTC Financial Inc. in favor of Bank of America, N.A., dated as of February 29, 2004 | |
10.11** | Trademark Security Agreement, dated as of February 29, 2004, made by the Grantors listed on the signature pages thereto in favor of the Bank of America, N.A. | |
10.12** | Copyright Security Agreement, dated as of February 29, 2004, made by the Grantors listed on the signature pages thereto in favor of the Bank of America, N.A. | |
10.13** | Stockholders Agreement, dated as of February 29, 2004, among WMG Parent Corp., WMG Holdings Corp., WMG Acquisition Corp. and Certain Stockholders of WMG Parent Corp. and WMG Holdings Corp. | |
10.14** | Amendment No. 1 to Stockholder's Agreement, dated as of July 30, 2004, among WMG Parent Corp., WMG Holdings Corp., WMG Acquisition Corp., each Person executing this Agreement and listed as an Investor on the signature pages hereto, each Person executing this Agreement and listed as a Seller on the signature pages hereto, each Person executing this Agreement and listed as a Manager on the signature pages hereto and such other Persons, if any, that from time to time become party hereto as holders of Other Holder Shares solely in the capacity of permitted assignees with respect to certain registration rights hereunder | |
10.15** | Seller Administrative Services Agreement, dated as of February 29, 2004, between Time Warner Inc. and WMG Acquisition Corp. | |
10.16** | Amendment No. 1 to Seller Administrative Services Agreement, dated as of July 1, 2004, between Time Warner Inc. and WMG Acquisition Corp. | |
10.17** | Purchaser Administrative Services Agreement, dated as of February 29, 2004, between Time Warner Inc. and WMG Acquisition Corp. | |
10.18** | Management Agreement, dated as of February 29, 2004, among WMG Parent Corp., WMG Holdings Corp., WMG Acquisition Corp., THL Managers V, L.L.C., Bain Capital Partners, LLC, Providence Equity Partners IV Inc. and Music Partners Management, LLC | |
10.19** | Warrant Agreement (MMT Warrants), February 29, 2004, WMG Parent Corp., WMG Holdings Corp. and Historic TW Inc. | |
10.20** | Warrant Agreement (Three-Year Warrants), February 29, 2004, WMG Parent Corp., WMG Holdings Corp. and Historic TW Inc. | |
10.21** | Employment Agreement, effective as of March 1, 2004, between WMG Acquisition Corp. and Edgar Bronfman, Jr. | |
10.22** | Employment Agreement, dated as of January 25, 2004, between WMG Acquisition Corp. and Lyor Cohen | |
10.23** | Employment Agreement, dated as of November 28, 2002, between Warner Music International Services Ltd. and Paul-René Albertini, assumed by WMG Acquisition Corp. on March 1, 2004 | |
10.24** | Employment Agreement, dated as of March 22, 1999, between Warner Music Group Inc. and Les Bider, as amended, assumed by WMG Acquisition Corp. on March 1, 2004 | |
10.25** | Employment Agreement, dated as of December 15, 1998, between Warner Music Group Inc. and David H. Johnson, as amended, assumed by WMG Acquisition Corp. on March 1, 2004 | |
10.26** | Office Lease, June 27, 2002, by and between Media Center Development, LLC and Warner Music Group Inc., as amended | |
10.27** | Lease, dated as of February 1, 1996, between 1290 Associates, L.L.C.and Warner Communications Inc. | |
10.28(1)** | U.S. Pick, Pack and Shipping Services Agreement, dated as of October 24, 2003, between Warner-Elektra-Atlantic Corporation and Cinram Distribution LLC | |
10.29(1)** | US Manufacturing and Packaging Agreement, dated as of October 24, 2003, between Warner-Elektra-Atlantic Corporation and Cinram Manufacturing Inc. | |
10.30(1)** | International Pick, Pack and Shipping Services Agreement, dated as of October 24, 2003, between WEA International Inc. and Warner Music Manufacturing Europe GmbH Company | |
10.31(1)** | International Manufacturing and Packaging Agreement, dated as of October 24, 2003, between WEA International Inc. and Warner Music Manufacturing Europe GmbH Company | |
10.32** | Lease, dated as of February 29, 2004, between Historical TW Inc. and Warner Music Group Inc. regarding 75 Rockefeller Plaza | |
10.33** | Consent to Assignment of Sublease, dated as of October 5, 2001, between 1290 Partners, L.P. and Warner Music Group | |
10.34** | Restricted Stock Award Agreement, dated as of March 1, 2004, between WMG Parent Corp. and Edgar Bronfman, Jr. | |
10.35** | Restricted Stock Award Agreement, dated as of March 1, 2004, between WMG Parent Corp. and Lyor Cohen | |
10.36** | Form of WMG Parent Corp. LTIP Stock Option Agreement | |
10.37** | Employment Agreement, dated as of December 21, 2004, between Warner Music Group Inc. and Michael D. Fleisher | |
10.38** | Restricted Stock Award Agreement, dated as of October 1, 2004, between WMG Parent Corp. and David H. Johnson | |
10.39** | Restricted Stock Award Agreement, dated as of December 31, 2004, between WMG Parent Corp. and Michael D. Fleisher | |
10.40** | Stock Option Agreement, dated as of October 1, 2004, between WMG Parent Corp. and Paul-Rene Albertini | |
10.41** | Stock Option Agreement, dated as of September 30, 2004, between WMG Parent Corp. and Les Bider | |
12.1** | Computation of Ratio of Earnings to Fixed Charges | |
21.1 | List of Subsidiaries | |
23.1** | Consent of Simpson Thacher & Bartlett LLP (included as part of its opinion filed as Exhibit 5.1 hereto) | |
23.2 | Consent of Ernst & Young LLP | |
23.3 | Consent of Gelfand Stein & Wasson LLP (included as part of its opinion filed as Exhibit 5.2 hereto) | |
23.4 | Consent of McCarter & English LLP (included as part of its opinion filed as Exhibit 5.3 hereto) | |
23.5 | Consent of Holland & Hart LLP (included as part of its opinion filed as Exhibit 5.4 hereto) | |
23.6 | Consent of Baker, Panelson, Bearman, Caldwell & Berkowitz, PC (included as part of its opinion filed as Exhibit 5.5 hereto) | |
24.1** | Powers of Attorney for WMG Acquisition Corp. | |
24.2** | Power of Attorney for Additional Registrants | |
24.3** | Power of Attorney for WMG Acquisition Corp. with respect to Michael D. Fleisher | |
25.1** | Form T-1 Statement of Eligibility under the Trust Indenture Act of 1939, as amended, of Wells Fargo Bank, National Association, as Trustee for Dollar Notes | |
99.1** | Form of Letter of TransmittalDollar Notes | |
99.2** | Form of Letter of TransmittalSterling Notes | |
99.3** | Form of Letter to Brokers, Dealers, Commercial Banks, Trust Companies and Other NomineesDollar Notes | |
99.4** | Form of Letter to Brokers, Dealers, Commercial Banks, Trust Companies and Other NomineesSterling Notes | |
99.5** | Form of Letter to ClientsDollar Notes | |
99.6** | Form of Letter to ClientsSterling Notes | |
99.7** | Form of Notice of Guaranteed DeliveryDollar Notes | |
99.8** | Form of Notice of Guaranteed DeliverySterling Notes | |
(b) | Financial Statement Schedules | |
Schedule IIValuation and Qualifying Accounts |
Exhibit 3.52
FOZ MAN MUSIC LLC
LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY AGREEMENT
Dated as of January 31, 2005 (this Agreement),
adopted by Atlantic/143 L.L.C., a Delaware Corporation, as the sole member.
Preliminary Statement
The sole member has formed a limited liability company (the Company) under the Delaware Limited Liability Company Act (the Act) for the purpose of engaging in any lawful act or activity for which a limited liability company may be organized under the Act.
Accordingly, the sole member hereby adopts the following as the Operating Agreement of the Company within the meaning of the Act:
1. Formation. The Company has been previously formed as a limited liability company pursuant to the provisions of the Act by Marie N. White, an authorized person, by the filing of the Certificate of Formation for the Company with the Secretary of State of the State of Delaware as of April 8, 1998. The sole member hereby adopts, confirms and ratifies said Certificate and all acts taken by Marie N. White in connection therewith.
2. Name. The name of the Company is:
Foz Man Music LLC
3. Purpose. The purpose of the Company is to engage in any lawful act or activity for which a limited liability company may be organized under the Act.
4. Registered Office. The registered office of the Company in the State of Delaware is Corporation Trust Company, 1209 Orange Street, Wilmington, Delaware 19801. At any time, the Company may designate another registered office.
5. Registered Agent. The name and address of the registered agent of the Company for service of process on the Company in the State of Delaware is The Corporation Trust Company, 1209 Orange Street, Wilmington, Delaware 19801. At any time the Company may designate another registered agent.
6. Member. The name and the address of the sole member of the Company is as follows:
Atlantic/143 L.L.C.
1290 Avenue of the Americas
New York, New York 10104
7. Management. Management of the Company is vested exclusively in the sole member and the sole member may delegate management responsibility as deemed necessary or appropriate.
8. Dissolution. The Company shall be dissolved and its affairs shall be wound up upon the earliest to occur of: (a) a decision made at any time by the sole member to dissolve the Company; (b) the sale, condemnation or other disposition of all of the Companys assets and the receipt of all consideration therefor; or (c) the bankruptcy or dissolution of the sole member.
9. Liquidation. Upon a dissolution pursuant to Section 8, the Company business and Company assets shall be liquidated in an orderly manner. The sole member shall be the liquidator to wind up the affairs of the Company pursuant to this Agreement. In performing its duties, the liquidator is authorized to sell, distribute, exchange or otherwise dispose of Company assets in accordance with the Act in any reasonable manner that the liquidator shall determine to be in the best interest of the sole member.
10. Initial Capital Contributions; Percentage Interests. The initial cash capital contribution to be made by the sole member promptly hereafter and the percentage interest of the sole member in the Company is as follows:
Member |
|
Initial |
|
Percentage |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Atlantic/143 L.L.C. |
|
$ |
1.00 |
|
100 |
% |
11. Additional Contributions. The sole member shall have no obligation to make any additional capital contribution to the Company after the date hereof, but may agree to do so from time to time.
12. Distributions. Distributions shall be made to the sole member at the times and in the aggregate amounts determined by the sole member.
13. Admission of Additional or Substitute Members. No substitute or additional member shall be admitted to the Company without the written approval of the sole member, acting in its sole discretion.
14. Liability of Member and Officers. Neither the sole member, member designee, nor officer (each, an Indemnified Person) shall have any liability for the obligations or liabilities of the Company, except to the extent, if any, expressly provided in the Act.
15. Exculpation and Indemnification of Indemnified Persons. (a) No Indemnified Person shall be personally liable for any breach of duty in such persons capacity as the sole member, member designee or officer of the Company; provided, however, that the foregoing shall not eliminate or limit the liability of any Indemnified Person if a judgment or other final adjudication adverse to the Indemnified Person establishes (i) that the Indemnified Persons acts or omissions were in bad faith or involved intentional misconduct or a knowing violation of law or (ii) that the Indemnified Person in fact personally gained a financial profit or other advantage to which the Indemnified Person was not legally entitled or (iii) that, with respect to a
distribution subject to Section 18-607(a) of the Act, the acts of the Indemnified Person were not performed in accordance with Section 18-402 of the Act.
(b) The Company shall, to the fullest extent permitted by the Act, indemnify and hold harmless, and advance expenses to, any Indemnified Person against any losses, claims, damages or liabilities to which the Indemnified Person may become subject in connection with this Agreement or the Companys business or affairs.
(c) Notwithstanding anything else contained in this Agreement, the indemnity obligations of the Company under paragraph (b) above shall:
(i) be in addition to any liability that the Company may otherwise have;
(ii) extend upon the same terms and conditions to the directors, committee members, officers, partners, members and employees of the Indemnified Persons;
(iii) inure to the benefit of the successors, assigns, heirs and personal representatives of the Indemnified Person and any such persons; and
(iv) be limited to the assets of the Company.
(d) This Section 15 shall survive any termination of this Agreement and the dissolution of the Company.
16. Amendments. This Agreement may be amended only by written instrument executed by the sole member.
17. Benefits of Agreement. None of the provisions of this Agreement shall be for the benefit of or enforceable by any creditor of the Company or by any creditor of the sole member.
18. Governing Law. THIS AGREEMENT SHALL BE CONSTRUED IN ACCORDANCE WITH AND GOVERNED BY THE LAWS OF THE STATE OF DELAWARE, WITHOUT GIVING EFFECT TO PRINCIPLES OF CONFLICTS OF LAW.
19. Headings. The titles of Sections of this Agreement are for convenience only and shall not be interpreted to limit or amplify the provisions of this Agreement.
20. Severability. Each provision of this Agreement shall be considered separable and if for any reason any provision or provisions hereof are determined to be invalid and contrary to any existing or future law, such invalidity shall not impair the operation of or affect those portions of this Agreement which are valid.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the undersigned, intending to be legally bound hereby, has executed this Agreement as of the date first above written.
|
ATLANTIC/143 L.L.C., its sole member |
||
|
|
||
|
|
||
|
By: |
/s/ Paul Robinson |
|
|
Name: Paul Robinson |
||
|
Title: Vice President |
Exhibit 5.2
GELFAND STEIN & WASSON LLP |
|
A LIMITED LIABILITY PARTNERSHIIP |
INCLUDING PROFESSIONAL CORPORATIONS |
|
11755 WILSHIRE BOULEVARD, SUITE 1230 |
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA 90025-1518 |
TELEPHONE: (310) 479-0044 |
FACSIMILE: (310) 477-7663 |
E-MAIL: EGELFAND@GSWLLP.COM |
HTTP://WWW.GSWLLP.COM |
WMG Acquisition Corp. |
Berna Music, Inc. |
Foster Frees Music, Inc. |
Rodra Music, Inc. |
Sea Chime Music, Inc. |
Warner Custom Music Corp. |
Warner Tamerlane Publishing Corp. |
WB Music Corp. |
Wide Music, Inc. |
75 Rockefeller Plaza |
New York, NY 10019 |
|
Ladies and Gentlemen: |
We have acted as counsel to the guarantors listed on Schedule I hereto (individually, a Represented Guarantor and collectively, the Represented Guarantors) in connection with the Registration Statement on Form S-4 (the Registration Statement) filed by WMG Acquisition Corp. (the Company), the Represented Guarantors, and additional guarantors (the Additional Guarantors) with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the Commission) under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, relating to the issuance by the Company of $465,000,000 aggregate principal amount of 73/8% Senior Subordinated Notes due 2014 and £100,000,000 aggregate principal amount of 81/8% Senior Subordinated Notes due 2014 (the Exchange Securities) and the issuance by the Represented Guarantors and the Additional Guarantors of guarantees (the Guarantees) with respect to the Exchange Securities. The Exchange Securities and the Guarantees will be issued under an indenture dated as of April 8, 2004 (the Indenture) among the Company, the Represented Guarantors, the Additional Guarantors and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association, as trustee (the Trustee). The Exchange Securities will be offered by the Company in exchange for $465,000,000 aggregate principal amount of its outstanding 73/8% Senior Subordinated Notes due 2014 and £100,000,000 aggregate principal amount of its outstanding 81/8% Senior Subordinated Notes due 2014 (the Securities).
We have examined the Registration Statement and the Indenture, which has been filed with the Commission as an exhibit to the Registration Statement. We also have examined the originals, or duplicates or certified or conformed copies, of such corporate records, agreements, documents and other instruments pertaining to the Represented Guarantors and have made such other investigations as we have deemed relevant and necessary in connection with the opinions hereinafter set forth. As to questions of fact material to this opinion, we have relied upon certificates or comparable documents of public officials and of officers and representatives of the Company and of the Represented Guarantors.
GELFAND STEIN & WASSON LLP |
|
A LIMITED LIABILITY PARTNERSHIIP |
INCLUDING PROFESSIONAL CORPORATIONS |
|
February 9, 2005 |
Page 2 |
In rendering the opinions set forth below, we have assumed the genuineness of all signatures, the legal capacity of natural persons, the authenticity of all documents submitted to us as originals, the conformity to original documents of all documents submitted to us as duplicates or certified or conformed copies and the authenticity of the originals of such latter documents. We also have assumed that the Indenture is the valid and legally binding obligation of the Trustee.
Based upon the foregoing, and subject to the qualifications, assumptions and limitations stated herein, we are of the opinion that:
1. When (a) the Exchange Securities have been duly executed, authenticated, issued and delivered in accordance with the provisions of the Indenture upon the exchange and (b) the Guarantees have been duly issued, the Guarantees will constitute valid and legally binding obligations of the Represented Guarantors enforceable against the Represented Guarantors in accordance with their terms.
2. The Represented Guarantors have duly authorized, executed and delivered the Indenture.
3. The execution, delivery and performance by the Represented Guarantors of the Indenture and the Guarantees do not and will not violate the law of the State of California.
Our opinion set forth above is subject to (i) the effects of bankruptcy, insolvency, fraudulent conveyance, reorganization, moratorium and other similar laws relating to or affecting creditors rights generally, (ii) general equitable principles (whether considered in a proceeding in equity or at law) and (iii) an implied covenant of good faith and fair dealing.
We do not express any opinion herein concerning any law other than the law of the State of California and the federal law of the United States (including the statutory provisions and reported judicial decisions interpreting the foregoing). Our opinion set forth above is limited to the Represented Guarantors listed on Schedule I and their Guarantees and does not include the obligations of any Additional Guarantors.
GELFAND STEIN & WASSON LLP |
|
A LIMITED LIABILITY PARTNERSHIIP |
INCLUDING PROFESSIONAL CORPORATIONS |
|
February 9, 2005 |
Page 3 |
We hereby consent to the filing of this opinion letter as Exhibit 5 to the Registration Statement and to the use of our name under the caption Legal Matters in the Prospectus included in the Registration Statement.
We hereby consent to the reliance by Simpson Thacher & Bartlett LLP on the foregoing opinions.
|
Very truly yours, |
|
|
|
|
|
GELFAND, STEIN & WASSON LLP |
SCHEDULE I
REPRESENTED GUARANTORS
Berna Music, Inc. |
Foster Frees Music, Inc. |
Rodra Music, Inc. |
Sea Chime Music, Inc. |
Warner Custom Music Corp. |
Warner Tamerlane Publishing Corp. |
WB Music Corp. |
Wide Music, Inc. |
Exhibit 5.3
February 9, 2005
WMG Acquisition Corp.
75 Rockefeller Plaza
New York, New York 10019
Ladies and Gentlemen:
We have acted as special counsel for Warner/Chappell Music (Services), Inc., a New Jersey corporation (the Excluded Guarantor), in connection with the registration statement on Form S-4 (No. 333-121322-90) (the Registration Statement) filed by WMG Acquisition Corp., a Delaware corporation (the Company), and the additional guarantors listed on Schedule 1 hereto (the Covered Guarantors; the Covered Guarantors together with the Excluded Guarantor, referred to as the Guarantors), under the Securities Act of 1933 with respect to (i) the issuance by the Company of $465,000,000 aggregate principal amount of 73/8% Senior Subordinated Notes due 2014, and £100,000,000 aggregate principal amount of 81/8% Senior Subordinated Notes due 2014 (collectively, the Exchange Securities) and (ii) the issuance by the Guarantors of guarantees (the Guarantees) with respect to the Exchange Securities. The Exchange Securities and the Guarantees will be issued under an indenture dated as of April 8, 2004 (the Indenture) among the Company, the Guarantors and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association, as trustee (the Trustee). The Exchange Securities will be offered by the Company in exchange for $465,000,000 aggregate principal amount of its outstanding 73/8% Senior Subordinated Notes due 2014 and £100,000,000 aggregate principal amount of its outstanding 81/8% Senior Subordinated Notes due 2014.
|
Very truly yours, |
|
|
|
/s/ McCarter & English, LLP |
Schedule 1
|
Jurisdiction |
|
A.P. Schmidt Company |
|
Delaware |
Atlantic Recording Corporation |
|
Delaware |
Atlantic/143 L.L.C. |
|
Delaware |
Atlantic/MR II INC. |
|
Delaware |
Atlantic/MR Ventures Inc. |
|
Delaware |
Big Beat Records Inc. |
|
Delaware |
Big Tree Recording Corporation |
|
Delaware |
Bute Sound LLC |
|
Delaware |
Cafe Americana Inc. |
|
Delaware |
Chappell & Intersong Music Group (Australia) Limited |
|
Delaware |
Chappell And Intersong Music Group (Germany) Inc. |
|
Delaware |
Chappell Music Company, Inc. |
|
Delaware |
Cota Music, Inc. |
|
New York |
Cotillion Music, Inc. |
|
Delaware |
CPP/Belwin, Inc. |
|
Delaware |
CRK Music Inc. |
|
Delaware |
E/A Music, Inc. |
|
Delaware |
Eleksylum Music, Inc. |
|
Delaware |
Elektra Entertainment Group Inc. |
|
Delaware |
Elektra Group Ventures Inc. |
|
Delaware |
Elektra/Chameleon Ventures Inc. |
|
Delaware |
Fiddleback Music Publishing Company, Inc. |
|
Delaware |
Foz Man Music LLC |
|
Delaware |
Inside Job, Inc. |
|
New York |
Intersong U.S.A., INC. |
|
Delaware |
Jadar Music Corp. |
|
Delaware |
Lava Trademark Holding Company LLC |
|
Delaware |
LEM America, INC. |
|
Delaware |
London-Sire Records Inc. |
|
Delaware |
McGuffin Music Inc. |
|
Delaware |
Mixed Bag Music, Inc. |
|
New York |
MM Investment Inc. (fka Warner Music Bluesky Holdings Inc.) |
|
Delaware |
NC Hungary Holdings Inc. |
|
Delaware |
New Chappell Inc. |
|
Delaware |
Nonesuch Records Inc. |
|
Delaware |
NVC International Inc. |
|
Delaware |
Octa Music Inc. |
|
New York |
Penalty Records L.L.C. |
|
New York |
Pepamar Music Corp. |
|
New York |
Revelation Music Publishing Corporation |
|
New York |
Rhino Entertainment Company |
|
Delaware |
Rick's Music Inc. |
|
Delaware |
Rightsong Music Inc. |
|
Delaware |
SR/MDM Venture Inc. |
|
Delaware |
Super Hype Publishing, Inc. |
|
New York |
T-Boy Music L.L.C. |
|
New York |
T-Girl Music L.L.C. |
|
New York |
The Rhythm Method Inc. |
|
Delaware |
Tommy Boy Music, Inc. |
|
New York |
Tommy Valando Publishing Group, Inc. |
|
Delaware |
Tri-Chappell Music Inc. |
|
Delaware |
TW Music Holdings Inc. |
|
Delaware |
Unichappell Music Inc. |
|
Delaware |
W.B.M. Music Corp. |
|
Delaware |
Walden Music, Inc. |
|
New York |
Warner Alliance Music Inc. |
|
Delaware |
Warner Brethren Inc. |
|
Delaware |
Warner Bros. Music International Inc. |
|
Delaware |
Warner Bros. Publications U.S. Inc. |
|
New York |
Warner Bros. Records Inc. |
|
Delaware |
Warner Domain Music Inc. |
|
Delaware |
Warner Music Discovery Inc. |
|
Delaware |
Warner Music Distribution Inc. |
|
Delaware |
Warner Music Group Inc. |
|
Delaware |
Warner Music Latina Inc. |
|
Delaware |
Warner Music SP Inc. |
|
Delaware |
Warner Sojourner Music Inc. |
|
Delaware |
Warner Special Products Inc. |
|
Delaware |
WarnerSongs Inc. |
|
Delaware |
Warner Strategic Marketing Inc. |
|
Delaware |
Warner-Elektra-Atlantic Corporation |
|
New York |
Warner/Chappell Music, Inc. |
|
Delaware |
Warprise Music Inc. |
|
Delaware |
WB Gold Music Corp. |
|
Delaware |
WBM/House of Gold Music, Inc. |
|
Delaware |
WBPI Holdings LLC |
|
Delaware |
WBR Management Services Inc. |
|
Delaware |
WBR/QRI Venture Inc. |
|
Delaware |
WBR/Ruffnation Ventures, Inc. |
|
Delaware |
WBR/Sire Ventures, Inc. |
|
Delaware |
We Are Musica Inc. |
|
Delaware |
WEA Europe Inc. |
|
Delaware |
WEA Inc. |
|
Delaware |
WEA International Inc. |
|
Delaware |
WEA Latina Musica Inc. |
|
Delaware |
WEA Management Services Inc. |
|
Delaware |
WEA Rock LLC |
|
Delaware |
WEA Urban LLC |
|
Delaware |
WMG Management Services Inc. |
|
Delaware |
WMG Trademark Holding Company LLC |
|
Delaware |
Berna Music, Inc. |
|
California |
FHK, INC. |
|
Tennessee |
Foster Frees Music, Inc. |
|
California |
Rodra Music, Inc. |
|
California |
Sea Chime Music, Inc. |
|
California |
Summy-Birchard, Inc. |
|
Wyoming |
Warner Custom Music Corp. |
|
California |
Warner-Tamerlane Publishing Corp. |
|
California |
WB Music Corp. |
|
California |
Wide Music, Inc. |
|
California |
Exhibit 5.4
February 9, 2005
WMG Acquisition Corp.
75 Rockefeller Plaza
New York, NY 10019
Ladies and Gentlemen:
We have acted as special Wyoming counsel to WMG Acquisition Corp., a Delaware corporation (the Company), and to Summy-Birchard, Inc., a Wyoming corporation, a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Company and one of the guarantors listed on Schedule I hereto (individually, a Covered Guarantor and collectively with all of the guarantors listed on Schedule I hereto, the Covered Guarantors). The Covered Guarantors along with the guarantors listed on Schedule II hereto (the Excluded Guarantors) are, together with the Covered Guarantors, referred to herein as the Guarantors. Summy-Birchard, Inc. is sometimes referred to herein as the Guarantor. This opinion is rendered in connection with the Registration Statement on Form S-4 (the Registration Statement) filed by the Company and the Guarantors with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the Commission) under the Securities Act of 1933 (the Act), as amended, relating to the issuance by the Company of $465,000,000 aggregate principal amount of 73/8% Senior Subordinated Notes due 2014 and £100,000,000 aggregate principal amount of 81/8% Senior Subordinated Notes due 2014 (the Exchange Securities) and the issuance by the Guarantors of guarantees (the Guarantees), including without limitation by the Guarantor of its Guarantee of even date with the Indenture described below (the Guarantee), with respect to the Exchange Securities. The Exchange Securities and the Guarantees will be issued under an indenture dated as of April 8, 2004 (the Indenture) among the Company, the Guarantors and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association, as trustee (the Trustee). The Exchange Securities will be offered by the Company in exchange for $465,000,000 aggregate principal amount of its outstanding 73/8% Senior Subordinated Notes due 2014 and £100,000,000 aggregate principal amount of its outstanding 81/8% Senior Subordinated Notes due 2014 (the Securities).
We have examined the Guarantee, as well as the Registration Statement and the Indenture, which has been filed with the Commission as an exhibit to the Registration Statement. We also have examined the originals, or duplicates or certified or conformed copies, of such corporate records, agreements, documents and other instruments and have made such other investigations as we have deemed relevant and necessary in connection with the opinions hereinafter set forth. As to questions of fact
material to this opinion, we have relied upon certificates or comparable documents of public officials and of officers and representatives of the Company and the Guarantor, including without limitation the organizational documents of the Guarantor on file with the Wyoming Secretary of States Office or which have been provided to us by the Company or the Guarantor and authorizing resolutions of the Guarantor dated March 31, 2004 as to its execution, delivery, issuance and performance of the Guarantee and the Indenture (the Resolutions).
In rendering the opinions set forth below, we have assumed the genuineness of all signatures, the legal capacity of natural persons, the authenticity of all documents submitted to us as originals, the conformity to original documents of all documents submitted to us as duplicates or certified or conformed copies and the authenticity of the originals of such latter documents. We also have assumed that the Indenture is the valid and legally binding obligation of the Trustee and the other parties thereto, enforceable in accordance with its terms, and that the Exchange Securities constitute the valid and legally binding obligation of the Company, enforceable in accordance with their respective terms.
Based upon the foregoing, and subject to the qualifications, assumptions and limitations stated herein, we are of the opinion that:
Our opinions set forth above are subject to (i) the effects of bankruptcy, avoidance, insolvency, fraudulent conveyance, reorganization, moratorium and other similar laws relating to or affecting creditors rights generally (including such limitations as may deny giving effect to waivers of a debtors or guarantors rights, (ii) general equitable principles (whether considered in a proceeding in equity or at law), (iii) an implied covenant of good faith and fair dealing, and (iv) certain applicable
2
laws and judicial rulings that may limit, impair or delay the enforcement of certain remedies, waivers or other provisions of the Guarantee and the Indenture, but which will not in our opinion substantially interfere with the practical realization of the benefits intended to be conferred by the Guarantee.
Our opinions are based on the laws of the State of Wyoming. This letter is limited to the matters expressed herein and no other opinions may be implied. Specifically, no opinion is expressed herein regarding the effect of or compliance with securities laws. This opinion is provided as a legal opinion only.
This opinion is furnished for the benefit of, and may be relied on by, the addressee and its counsel, Simpson, Thacher & Bartlett LLP. We hereby consent to the filing of this opinion letter as Exhibit 5 to the Registration Statement and to the use of our name under the caption Legal Matters in the Prospectus included in the Registration Statement. In giving this opinion and our consent, we do not hereby admit that we are acting within the category of person whose consent is required under Section 7 of the Act or the rules or regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission thereunder.
|
Very truly yours, |
|
|
|
|
|
Holland & Hart LLP |
3
Exhibit 5.5
February 9, 2005
WMG Acquisition Corp.
75 Rockefeller Plaza
New York, NY 10019
Ladies and Gentlemen:
We have acted as counsel to FHK, Inc., a Tennessee corporation (the Guarantor) in connection with the Registration Statement on Form S-4 (the Registration Statement) filed by WMG Acquisition Corp. (the Company) and the Guarantors named therein with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the Commission) under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, relating to the issuance by the Company of $465,000,000 aggregate principal amount of 73/8% Senior Subordinated Notes due 2014 and £100,000,000 aggregate principal amount of 81/8% Senior Subordinated Notes due 2014 (the Exchange Securities) and the issuance by the Guarantors of guarantees (the Guarantees) with respect to the Exchange Securities. The Exchange Securities and the Guarantees will be issued under an indenture dated as of April 8, 2004 (the Indenture) among the Company, the Guarantors and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association, as trustee (the Trustee). The Exchange Securities will be offered by the Company in exchange for $465,000,000 aggregate principal amount of its outstanding 73/8% Senior Subordinated Notes due 2014 and £100,000,000 aggregate principal amount of its outstanding 81/8% Senior Subordinated Notes due 2014 (the Securities).
We have examined Section 11 of the Indenture, which has been filed with the Commission as an exhibit to the Registration Statement. We also have examined the originals, or duplicates or certified or conformed copies, of such corporate records, agreements, documents and other instruments and have made such other investigations as we have deemed relevant and necessary in connection with the opinions hereinafter set forth, including, the Officers
Certificate, dated January 21, 2005 (the Officers Certificate), and have relied as to matters of fact upon the Officers Certificate.
In rendering the opinions set forth below, we have assumed the genuineness of all signatures, the legal capacity of natural persons, the authenticity of all documents submitted to us as originals, the conformity to original documents of all documents submitted to us as duplicates or certified or conformed copies and the authenticity of the originals of such latter documents. We also have assumed that the Indenture is the valid and legally binding obligation of the Trustee.
Based upon the foregoing, and subject to the qualifications, assumptions and limitations stated herein, we are of the opinion that:
(1) the Guarantor has duly authorized, executed and delivered the Indenture and the Guarantee therein is the valid, binding and enforceable obligation of the Guarantor, enforceable against it in accordance with its terms; and
(2) the execution, delivery and performance by the Guarantor of the Indenture and the Guarantee do not and will not violate the laws of the State of Tennessee, the state of its incorporation.
Our opinions set forth above are subject to (i) the effects of bankruptcy, insolvency, fraudulent conveyance, reorganization, moratorium and other similar laws relating to or affecting creditors rights generally, (ii) general equitable principles (whether considered in a proceeding in equity or at law) and (iii) an implied covenant of good faith and fair dealing.
We do not express any opinion herein concerning any law other than the law of the State of Tennessee (including the statutory provisions, all applicable provisions of the Tennessee Constitution and reported judicial decisions interpreting the foregoing).
This letter is furnished by us in connection with the transactions referred to in the Indenture. The opinions herein may be relied upon by the law firm of Simpson Thacher & Bartlett LLP. We hereby consent to the filing of this opinion letter as Exhibit 5 to the Registration Statement and to the use of our name as it relates to the particular opinion provided herein, relating to the Guarantee
under the laws of the State of Tennessee, under the caption Legal Matters in the Prospectus included in the Registration Statement.
|
Very truly yours, |
|
|
|
Baker, Donelson, Bearman, |
|
Caldwell & Berkowitz, PC |
Exhibit 21.1
WMG ACQUISITION CORP.
SUBSIDIARIES OF THE REGISTRANT
Legal Name |
|
State or Jurisdiction of Incorporation or Organization |
|
|
A.P. Schmidt Company |
|
Delaware |
|
|
Atlantic Recording Corporation |
|
Delaware |
|
|
Atlantic/143 L.L.C. |
|
Delaware |
|
|
Atlantic/MR II INC. |
|
Delaware |
|
|
Atlantic/MR Ventures Inc. |
|
Delaware |
|
|
Berna Music, Inc. |
|
California |
|
|
Big Beat Records Inc. |
|
Delaware |
|
|
Big Tree Recording Corporation |
|
Delaware |
|
|
Bute Sound LLC |
|
Delaware |
|
|
Cafe Americana Inc. |
|
Delaware |
|
|
Chappell & Intersong Music Group (Australia) Limited |
|
Delaware |
|
|
Chappell And Intersong Music Group (Germany) Inc. |
|
Delaware |
|
|
Chappell Music Company, Inc. |
|
Delaware |
|
|
Cota Music, Inc. |
|
New York |
|
|
Cotillion Music, Inc. |
|
Delaware |
|
|
CPP/Belwin, Inc. |
|
Delaware |
|
|
CRK Music Inc. |
|
Delaware |
|
|
E/A Music, Inc. |
|
Delaware |
|
|
Eleksylum Music, Inc. |
|
Delaware |
|
|
Elektra Entertainment Group Inc. |
|
Delaware |
|
|
Elektra Group Ventures Inc. |
|
Delaware |
|
|
Elektra/Chameleon Ventures Inc. |
|
Delaware |
|
|
FHK, INC. |
|
Tennessee |
|
|
Fiddleback Music Publishing Company, Inc |
|
Delaware |
|
|
Foster Frees Music, Inc. |
|
California |
|
|
Foz Man Music LLC |
|
Delaware |
|
|
Inside Job, Inc. |
|
New York |
|
|
Intersong U.S.A., INC. |
|
Delaware |
|
|
Jadar Music Corp. |
|
Delaware |
|
|
Lava Trademark Holding Company LLC |
|
Delaware |
|
|
LEM America, INC. |
|
Delaware |
|
|
London-Sire Records Inc. |
|
Delaware |
|
|
McGuffin Music Inc. |
|
Delaware |
|
|
Mixed Bag Music, Inc. |
|
New York |
|
|
NC Hungary Holdings Inc. |
|
Delaware |
|
|
New Chappell Inc. |
|
Delaware |
|
|
Nonesuch Records Inc. |
|
Delaware |
|
|
NVC International Inc. |
|
Delaware |
|
|
Octa Music, Inc. |
|
New York |
|
|
Penalty Records L.L.C. |
|
New York |
|
|
Pepamar Music Corp. |
|
New York |
|
|
Revelation Music Publishing Corporation |
|
New York |
|
|
Rhino Entertainment Company |
|
Delaware |
|
|
Ricks Music Inc. |
|
Delaware |
|
|
Rightsong Music Inc. |
|
Delaware |
|
|
Rodra Music, Inc. |
|
California |
|
|
Sea Chime Music, Inc. |
|
California |
|
|
SR/MDM Venture Inc. |
|
Delaware |
|
|
Summy-Birchard, Inc. |
|
Wyoming |
|
|
Super Hype Publishing, Inc. |
|
New York |
|
|
T-Boy Music L.L.C. |
|
New York |
|
|
T-Girl Music L.L.C. |
|
New York |
|
|
The Rhythm Method Inc. |
|
Delaware |
|
|
Tommy Boy Music, Inc. |
|
New York |
|
|
Tommy Valando Publishing Group, Inc. |
|
Delaware |
|
|
Tri-Chappell Music Inc. |
|
Delaware |
|
|
TW Music Holdings Inc. |
|
Delaware |
|
|
Unichappell Music Inc. |
|
Delaware |
|
|
W.B.M. Music Corp. |
|
Delaware |
|
|
Walden Music, Inc. |
|
New York |
|
|
Warner Alliance Music Inc. |
|
Delaware |
|
|
Warner Brethren Inc. |
|
Delaware |
|
|
Warner Bros. Music International Inc. |
|
Delaware |
|
|
Warner Bros. Publications U.S. Inc. |
|
New York |
|
|
Warner Bros. Records Inc. |
|
Delaware |
|
|
Warner Custom Music Corp. |
|
California |
|
|
Warner Domain Music Inc. |
|
Delaware |
|
|
Warner Music Bluesky Holding Inc. |
|
Delaware |
|
|
Warner Music Discovery Inc. |
|
Delaware |
|
|
Warner Music Distribution Inc. |
|
Delaware |
|
|
Warner Music Group Inc. |
|
Delaware |
|
|
Warner Music Latina Inc. |
|
Delaware |
|
|
Warner Music SP Inc. |
|
Delaware |
|
|
Warner Sojourner Music Inc. |
|
Delaware |
|
|
WarnerSongs Inc. |
|
Delaware |
|
|
Warner Special Products Inc. |
|
Delaware |
|
|
Warner Strategic Marketing Inc. |
|
Delaware |
|
|
Warner-Elektra-Atlantic Corporation |
|
New York |
|
|
Warner-Tamerlane Publishing Corp. |
|
California |
|
|
Warner/Chappell Music (Services), Inc. |
|
New Jersey |
|
|
Warner/Chappell Music, Inc. |
|
Delaware |
|
|
Warprise Music Inc. |
|
Delaware |
|
|
WB Gold Music Corp. |
|
Delaware |
|
|
WB Music Corp. |
|
California |
|
|
WBM/House of Gold Music, Inc. |
|
Delaware |
|
|
WBPI Holdings LLC |
|
Delaware |
|
|
WBR Management Services Inc. |
|
Delaware |
|
|
WBR/QRI Venture, Inc. |
|
Delaware |
|
|
WBR/Ruffnation Ventures, Inc. |
|
Delaware |
|
|
WBR/Sire Ventures Inc. |
|
Delaware |
|
|
We Are Musica Inc. |
|
Delaware |
|
|
WEA Europe Inc. |
|
Delaware |
|
|
WEA Inc. |
|
Delaware |
|
|
WEA International Inc. |
|
Delaware |
|
|
WEA Latina Musica Inc. |
|
Delaware |
|
|
WEA Management Services Inc. |
|
Delaware |
|
|
WEA Rock LLC |
|
Delaware |
|
|
WEA Urban LLC |
|
Delaware |
|
|
Wide Music, Inc. |
|
California |
|
|
WMG Management Services Inc. |
|
Delaware |
|
|
WMG Trademark Holding Company LLC |
|
Delaware |
|
|
2
Exhibit 23.2
Consent of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
We consent to the reference to our firm under the caption "Experts" and to the use of our reports dated December 13, 2004 and July 8, 2004, in Amendment No. 3 to the Registration Statement (Form S-4 No. 333-121322) and related Prospectus of Warner Music Group for the registration of $465,000,000 aggregate principal amount of 73/8% Senior Subordinated Notes due 2014 and £100,000,000 aggregate principal amount of 81/8% Senior Subordinated Notes due 2014.
/s/ ERNST & YOUNG LLP
New
York, New York
February 8, 2005
SIMPSON THACHER & BARTLETT LLP
425 LEXINGTON AVENUE
NEW YORK, N.Y. 10017-3954
(212) 455-2000
FACSIMILE (212) 455-2502
February 9, 2005
Sara W. Dunton, Branch Chief |
|
|
Hanna T. Teshome, Attorney-Advisor |
|
|
Division of Corporation Finance |
|
|
U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission |
|
|
450 Fifth Street, N.W. |
|
|
Washington, DC 20549 |
|
|
|
|
|
Re: |
WMG Acquisition Corp. |
|
|
Form S-4 filed December 16, 2004 |
|
|
Amendment No. 1 filed January 21, 2005 |
|
|
Amendment No. 2 filed January 24, 2005 |
|
|
File No. 333-121322 |
|
|
|
|
Dear Ms. Dunton and Ms. Teshome: |
|
This letter responds to your letter of February 4, 2005 setting forth comments of the staff (the Staff) of the Securities and Exchange Commission (the Commission) regarding the Registration Statement on Form S-4 of Warner Music Group (WMG or the Company) filed on December 16, 2004, as amended by Amendment No. 1 filed on January 21, 2005 and Amendment No. 2 filed on January 24, 2005 (collectively, the Registration Statement). For your convenience, we have reproduced each of the Staffs comments in this letter, using bold text, and indicated our response to each such comment below. We have also revised the Registration Statement by preparing Amendment No. 3 to the Registration Statement (Amendment No. 3) in response to the Staffs comments which reflects these and other revisions, primarily relating to disclosure on the Stockholders Agreement, the warrants and management.
We are also sending via courier three marked and three clean paper copies of Amendment No. 3 for the convenience of the Staff.
Page references in the text of this letter correspond to the pages of Amendment No. 3, except when otherwise indicated.
Legal Matters, page 210
In response to the Staffs comment, references to the related guarantees and the law firms that will pass upon the validity of those guarantees have been added on page 210.
Exhibit 5.2
In response to the Staffs comment, the opinion has been revised to include an express consent for reliance by Simpson Thacher & Bartlett LLP in the last paragraph. A new signed and dated opinion reflecting the changes requested by the Staff has been filed with Amendment No. 3.
Exhibit 5.3
In response to the Staffs comment, the references to Covered Guarantor and Guarantors and Schedule 1 in this opinion have been revised to conform to the references in Exhibit 5.1. A new signed and dated opinion reflecting the changes requested by the Staff has been filed with Amendment No. 3.
In response to the Staffs comment, the revised opinion has been signed and dated by the law firm.
Exhibit 5.4
In response to the Staffs comment, the portions beginning with that the Trustee has required... and that the Guarantee would be governed by Wyoming law have been deleted. A new signed and dated opinion reflecting the changes requested by the Staff has been filed with Amendment No. 3.
2
In response to the Staffs comment, the references regarding changes subsequent to the date of the opinion have been deleted.
In response to the Staffs comment, the last clause of the last sentence in the penultimate paragraph has been deleted.
In response to the Staffs comment, the first sentence in the last paragraph of this opinion has been revised both to delete the limitation on reliance by other persons or entities or in connection with any other transactions, and to include an express consent for reliance by Simpson Thacher & Bartlett LLP.
Exhibit 5.5
In response to the Staffs comment, the opinion paragraph has been revised to include an express opinion that the Guarantee is a valid, binding and enforceable obligation. A new signed and dated opinion reflecting the changes requested by the Staff has been filed with Amendment No. 3.
In response to the Staffs comment, the first sentence in the last paragraph has been modified to address the concerns conveyed by Ms. Teshome to Mr. Tolley on February 8, 2005. In addition, an express consent for reliance by Simpson Thacher & Bartlett LLP has been included.
In response to the Staffs comment, the second sentence in the last paragraph of the opinion has been deleted.
3
Oral Follow-Up Accounting Requests from Mr. Fay and Ms. Messinese
Request relating to old comment 35: Explain why your accounting for the $75 million fee is appropriate. The basis for your accounting is unclear since it appears that the agreement was entered after the consummation of the acquisition.
In response to the accounting Staffs follow-up request conveyed to Ed Tolley via telephone on February 4, on page F-48 of Amendment No. 3 WMG has added disclosure as to the basis for the accounting for the $75 million fee which information was previously provided supplementally to the Staff. In addition, on pages F-48 and 124 of Amendment No. 3, WMG has added disclosure that:
Although the Company has not conducted a formal analysis as to the arms-length nature of such fee, the Company believes that the amount of such fee is representative of, or comparable to, such fees paid in similar transactions.
Request relating to old comment 37: Discuss in MD&A the reason for the decreases in your accounts receivable allowances during 2004 and the impact these decreases had on your financial statements.
In response to the accounting Staffs follow-up request conveyed to Ed Tolley via telephone on February 4, WMG has revised its disclosures to address the impact of seasonality on the balance of its gross receivables and receivable valuation allowances. WMG supplementally advises the Staff that the profit and loss-related effect of returns was approximately 16% of gross sales for each of the 10 months ended September 30, 2004 and September 30, 2003. As such, the significant movement in the sales returns reserve was primarily seasonal in nature.
******
Please contact either Edward P. Tolley III at (212) 455-3189 or Mary Kuan at (212) 455-2257 with any questions regarding the foregoing.
|
Very truly yours, |
|
|
|
|
|
/s/ Simpson Thacher & Bartlett LLP |
|
|
|
|
|
SIMPSON THACHER & BARTLETT LLP |
|
|
cc: |
Dave Johnson |
|
Paul Robinson |
|
Trent Tappe |
4