Spotify Teams With Major Labels to Shape AI in Music

Spotify on Thursday announced a partnership with the world's largest music rights holders to develop a new generation of artificial intelligence products intended to respect copyright and center artists and songwriters in how AI is used in music. The collaboration brings together Sony Music Group, Universal Music Group, Warner Music Group, Merlin and Believe with the streaming service to build AI features that will be optional for artists and governed by upfront licensing and compensation agreements.

Spotify said the companies will work together to create AI tools that generate new revenue streams for creators, provide transparent crediting, and allow artists and rightsholders to decide if and how their work is used. The company announced it is building a dedicated generative AI research lab and product team to develop the first products, but did not disclose technical details or specific launch dates. Spotify has about 276 million paying subscribers and already offers AI-driven features such as an AI DJ and playlist tools.

The agreement lays out four guiding principles: choice for artists on participation, development through direct licensing rather than retroactive...