Hook, an AI-powered music remixing app, has struck a licensing deal with Universal Music Group, giving fans access to catalogues from sublabels including Republic Records, Capitol Records and Virgin Music Group. The agreement marks an escalation of an existing partnership and positions Hook as an artist-friendly alternative to AI music generation platforms such as Suno and Udio, since it lets users remix licensed tracks rather than generate new ones from scratch.

Launched in 2024, Hook allows fans to apply filters to songs and create minute-long "Hooks" for platforms like Instagram and TikTok, with artists retaining ownership and earning revenue from use of their tracks. The app already has deals with labels including Glassdoor Records and Downtown Music, and features artists such as Justin Bieber, the Weeknd, Kendrick Lamar and Charli xcx, a roster the UMG deal is set to expand significantly, though neither company disclosed which new artists would be added. Hook is backed by investors including Khosla Ventures and Point72.