Merlin Signs Licensing Deal With Spotify for New AI Covers and Remixes Tool
The tool was first introduced to Spotify with UMG as a partner
Merlin, the digital licensing company for the independent sector, has signed a deal with Spotify to be included in its new tool that allows fans to create covers and remixes with AI. The tool launched with Universal Music Group (UMG) as a partner, and with Merlin on board, Spotify subscribers can use music from prominent indie artists as well.
How it works:
Artists represented by Merlin will be able to opt in to have their music included in the feature.
When the tool comes out, it will be a paid add-on, adding extra revenue to Spotify that will then be redirected to artists and labels via the licensing deal.
Background:
Merlin has made licensing deals related to AI with companies such as Udio and ElevenLabs.
What they said:
Charlie Hellman, SVP and Global Head of Music at Spotify: “This agreement with Merlin ensures participating artists are credited and compensated, and that every creation drives listeners back to the original work. We’re proud to extend this model to the independent community, and we look forward to welcoming more partners as we continue to build.”
Charlie Lexton, CEO Merlin: “Giving our members’ artists the choice to make their music available as part of this exciting technology, while ensuring the opportunity to participate in an additional revenue stream, is exactly what Merlin is here to do. Spotify’s respect for our members’ and their artists’ rights is exemplary, making our decision to work on this project an easy one.”
👋 Disclosures & Transparency Block
This article was written with information sourced from Music Week.
We covered this story because it demonstrates further integration of AI in the music industry.
