Spotify has recently announced a series of significant deals with major record labels, including Sony, Universal, Warner, and Merlin, aimed at developing new artificial intelligence (AI) products. The core objective of these partnerships is to ensure fair compensation for artists and songwriters, while also centering them in the AI experience. The streaming giant emphasized its commitment to developing “responsible AI” products that strictly respect copyright. A crucial aspect of this initiative is empowering artists with the choice to opt-in or opt-out of allowing the use of AI tools in relation to their work.

While Spotify did not disclose intricate details regarding the operation of these new tools, the company already incorporates generative AI experiences for its users. These include an AI DJ that curates personalized music selections and features that enable users to request playlists using AI prompts. The announcement follows a period where Spotify faced criticism for permitting an AI-generated band’s music to achieve viral status on its platform, which sparked discussions about the future role of human artistry in music. In response to such concerns, Spotify revamped its AI policy last month to tackle spam, specifically targeting users who upload AI content at a mass scale, create duplicates, and manipulate search and recommendation systems.

Further demonstrating its commitment to transparency and artist rights, Spotify also stated its intention to adopt the music labeling system DDEX. This system will be used to clearly identify when AI has been utilized as part of the music creation process. The upcoming generative AI features align with this promise by allowing artists to actively choose their participation in the AI music ecosystem. It is highly anticipated that this forthcoming system will enable artists to identify instances where their music is incorporated into AI-generated tracks, thereby facilitating a mechanism for them to collect appropriate payments. Spotify intends to expand this system beyond individual artists to encompass other rightsholders and distributors over time.

In a powerful statement, Spotify underscored its position on intellectual property, declaring, “Some voices in the tech industry believe copyright should be abolished. We don’t. Musicians’ rights matter. Copyright is essential.” The company further elaborated on its proactive approach, stating, “If the music industry doesn’t lead in this moment, AI-powered innovation will happen elsewhere, without rights, consent, or compensation. Together with rightsholders, artists, and songwriters, we are making significant investments in AI research and product development.” Alongside these partnerships, Spotify has established a dedicated generative AI research lab and product team. This team is focused on developing new technologies that uphold its foundational principle: artists should have the autonomy to choose if and how they engage with the evolving AI music landscape. Work on the initial products has already commenced, with more tools expected to be rolled out in the future.