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Innovative music company with multi-faceted approach to artists and content becomes part of Warner Music Finland

Warner Music Nordic today announced the acquisition of HMC (Helsinki Music Company), a Finnish company with operations in recorded music, merchandising, music publishing and touring. Under the agreement and effective immediately, HMC will become a wholly-owned division of Warner Music Finland.

In October 2007, HMC’s founders Niko Nordström and Asko Kallonen were named General Manager, Warner Music Finland and A&R Director, Warner Music Finland respectively. Nordström will continue to run HMC in his new capacity and report to Jonas Siljemark, President, Warner Music Nordic.

HMC has built a reputation as one of Finland’s most innovative music companies, with strong operations across a broad range of music-related businesses. The company currently has agreements with some of the region’s most popular artists including HIM, Sturm Und Drang, Antti Tuisku and Tomi Putaansuu from Lordi as well as newer artists such as Cristal Snow, Jippu and Brightboy.

Jonas Siljemark said “This strategic acquisition will bolster our A&R capabilities and add some of Finland’s biggest names to Warner Music’s already admirable local roster. Further, the deal will accelerate our ability to partner with our artists on a broader basis. The new division will provide both resources and expertise to our organization, enabling us to enhance our focus on the growth areas of the music industry. I’m confident that the addition of HMC to our Finnish operations will provide new commercial and creative opportunities to our local and international artists.”

John Reid, President, Warner Music Europe said “HMC has achieved some impressive results working with some of Finland’s most highly prized talent. This important investment is another key step towards the re-definition of Warner Music’s role in the music value chain across the region. We continue to offer our acts an expanding range of services that connects them to their fans in myriad ways.”

Niko Nordström said “I am delighted that HMC is joining the Warner Music family and that I will be leading the close collaboration between the two companies. Together, we will be able to take an even broader, more ambitious approach to the development of our artists’ careers.” 

This agreement is the latest in a series of acquisitions and partnerships that have enabled Warner Music to strengthen its global footprint. In the past year, the company has unveiled new investments and alliances around the world including in Japan, South Korea, Russia, China, Continental Europe, the Middle East, Africa and Latin America. Previously, in October 2007, Warner Music Nordic announced a global partnership with Kaiku Entertainment Oy, a new all-rights music company formed by Pekka Ruuska, Warner Music Finland’s former A&R Director.

About Warner Music International:
Warner Music International (WMI) is Warner Music Group's global (ex-U.S.) recorded music division that markets and distributes WMG's world-class roster of U.S. and international recording artists through a network of affiliates and licensees in more than 50 countries. With a commitment to developing local talent as well as marketing international superstars, WMI leverages its expertise in each region around the world to attract and cultivate a diverse international artist roster. WMG is a pioneer in delivering music content in new and exciting ways, with a track record of 'firsts' in the digital space.

Source: Warner Music International