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Spotify expands AI remix and covers project with Merlin partnership
Spotify used its second-quarter earnings call to provide further detail on its forthcoming AI-powered remix and covers tool, revealing that Merlin, which licenses music for independent labels and distributors, has joined Universal Music Group in backing the effort. The partnership brings more than 30,000 additional labels into the fold, letting fans create remixes and covers of tracks whose artists have opted in. Spotify is framing the initiative as a legitimate, artist-consented alternative to the wave of AI-generated music flooding streaming platforms, distinguishing it from tools used to produce entirely synthetic songs by unknown or fake acts.
Executives Gustav Söderström and Alex Norström stressed that the product rests on consent, artist credit and compensation, calling it the first legal route for fans to take part in AI-driven "interactive music". A research preview will roll out to a limited group of users first, without requiring a full catalogue to begin, though Spotify has not confirmed a launch date. The tool is planned as a paid add-on, giving artists a new revenue stream, at a time when rival Deezer says over half of daily track uploads are now AI-generated, up from just 10% in January 2025.
In short
- Spotify adds Merlin, bringing 30,000+ labels to its AI remix/covers project
- Tool requires artist consent, offers credit and compensation, paid add-on
- Research preview coming to limited users first; no launch date given
Steelman: both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
This initiative represents a responsible approach to AI in music by prioritising artist consent, proper credit and compensation mechanisms. Supporters argue that as AI-generated music already floods platforms regardless, Spotify is offering a legitimate legal alternative that actually benefits participating artists through new revenue streams whilst maintaining their attribution and creative control. The expansion through Merlin brings tens of thousands of independent labels into a framework that respects artistic choice, turning a potential threat into an opportunity.
The case against
Critics contend that even with consent mechanisms, this initiative risks normalising the commodification of artist performances and creative work, potentially depressing demand for original human-created music and setting a precedent that erodes musicians' negotiating power. They argue that financial incentives may pressure independent and smaller artists to participate despite reservations, whilst true economic benefits flow primarily to the platform itself. The concern is that legitimising AI remixes this way accelerates a shift that ultimately threatens musicians' long-term livelihoods and creative autonomy, regardless of short-term compensation offers.
Explained simply
Spotify is a music streaming service where people listen to songs from artists and record labels. Merlin represents independent labels and music distributors in licensing deals, while Universal Music Group is one of the world’s largest music companies. Their involvement means more independent labels could take part in Spotify’s planned music-making tool.
The tool is intended to let fans use artificial intelligence to make remixes or covers of songs, with artists choosing whether their music can be used. The debate around AI music includes who gives permission, who gets credit and how artists are paid. Spotify’s approach matters because it aims to connect fan-made versions to the artists and labels behind the original music.
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