Universal Music Group partners with ElevenLabs to launch a new AI-powered platform that will let users create song remixes, mashups, and more from its catalog
First reported by The Verge ·
Access to popular music for AI-powered remixing and creation is now available through official channels.
Universal Music Group (UMG) has partnered with AI company ElevenLabs to launch a new platform enabling users to create remixes, mashups, and new versions of songs from UMG's licensed music catalog. This multiyear agreement allows artists to opt-in to the platform. The initiative represents UMG's ongoing engagement with AI, following previous deals with Udio, Spotify, Nvidia, and Klay. This development comes as other players, like Suno, are also releasing AI models trained on licensed music from major labels such as Warner Music Group and BMG. The collaboration between UMG and ElevenLabs is expected to yield further AI-driven products and fan experiences, with a focus on enabling artists to create new content and ensuring fair compensation for their work.
This partnership signifies a major step in integrating AI into music creation and consumption, offering a sanctioned pathway for fan-generated content derived from major label catalogs. It addresses the long-standing issue of unauthorized AI music generation by providing a legal framework and revenue-sharing model for artists and rights holders, potentially setting a new industry standard. The focus on artist opt-in and fair compensation suggests a model that could encourage broader adoption and reduce legal friction.
The implications for the music industry are significant, potentially unlocking new revenue streams and fan engagement opportunities while navigating the complex ethical and legal landscape of AI-generated music. This move by UMG and ElevenLabs will likely pressure other major labels and AI music platforms to establish similar licensing agreements and transparent compensation structures. The success of this platform could accelerate the development of AI tools that empower creators and redefine intellectual property in the digital music age.
AI-written summary. May contain errors.