Believe Inks Licensing Deal for Spotify's AI Remix Tool

Paris-based global music company Believe has signed a licensing deal with Spotify to contribute its catalog to the streamer's upcoming AI remix tool. Spotify users will be able to make remixes and covers of songs from Believe and TuneCore’s catalog, but only from artists who opt in.

Background:

• Universal Music Group (UMG), Kobalt, and Merlin previously signed deals with Spotify for the tool.

How it works:

• Streams for remixes and covers created with the tool will pay out royalties to the artists and rightsholders of the works that were used to generate the resulting piece of music.

• The tool will be a paid add-on to Spotify Premium, bringing in a new revenue pool to distribute to artists et al.

• Believe and TuneCore have a two-factor opt-in process. Artists first agree to opt into AI opportunities generally. Then they can agree to work directly with Spotify.

What they said:

• Denis Ladegaillerie, Founder and CEO of Believe: “A year ago, we shared a vision with Spotify: AI must create new opportunities for artists while protecting their rights and the value of their music. Today, this partnership puts that vision into action. Together, we are turning an already widespread fan remixing activity into a licensed experience that will enhance fan remix creation within Spotify’s controlled platform and generate revenues for artists. This is how our four principles – consent, control, compensation and transparency – translate into tangible benefits for artists.

• Charlie Hellman, SVP and Global Head of Music at Spotify: “Done right, fan creativity can deepen the connection between fans and the artists they love, creating new value for artists and driving attention back to the original music. Getting there takes partners across the industry, and Believe and independent artists have helped move the industry forward at every major turning point.”