Universal Music Group has signed a licensing agreement, being the first to do so, for a new additional service.
Spotify and Universal Music Group have announced a licensing deal enabling users to create AI-generated remixes and covers of streaming songs. This tool is available as a paid add-on for Premium subscribers. Artists can choose to opt out of the program, but those who participate will receive royalties from these AI remixes.
Last October, Spotify collaborated with UMG and major labels like Sony Music Group, Warner Music Group, Merlin, and Believe to develop what they called “responsible AI products.” The exact details were unclear at the time, but this appears to be the first outcome of that partnership.
Spotify outlined principles for this initiative: voluntary participation, fair compensation, new revenue sources, and strengthening artist-fan connections. When fan-made covers and remixes are shared, they generate royalties for the original artist, aligning with these principles.
In a statement, Spotify Co-CEO Alex Norström said that the initiative is based on artist consent, credit, and compensation. UMG CEO Sir Lucian Grainge added that innovations bringing artists and fans closer are key, and this AI initiative supports human artistry, deepens fan relationships, and creates more revenue opportunities.
Spotify has not disclosed the launch date or additional costs for this tool beyond Premium subscription.