Merger - Purchase Price Allocation to the Assets and Liabilities Acquired (Detail) (USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2012
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Cash paid to acquire outstanding WMG shares	$ 1,228
Cash paid to settle equity awards	50
Total cash consideration	1,278
Less: Cash paid by WMG	(179)
Net Investment	1,099
WMG shares previously held by Parent	30
Total consideration	1,129
Fair Value of assets acquired and liabilities assumed:
Cash	140
Accounts receivable	331
Inventory	28
Artist advances	341
Property, plant and equipment	182
Intangible assets	2,879
Other assets	117
Current liabilities	(1,544)
Deferred income tax liabilities	(363)
Deferred revenue	(115)
Other noncurrent liabilities	(173)
Debt	(2,049)
Noncontrolling interests	(17)
Fair value of net assets acquired	(243)
Goodwill recorded	1,372
Total consideration allocated	$ 1,129