Spotify and Universal Music Group launch AI-generated remixes as a paid Premium add-on, with artist opt-out and royalty provisions.
The Verge AI · May 21, 2026
AI Summary
•Spotify and Universal Music Group (UMG) announced a licensing deal allowing Premium subscribers to prompt creation of AI-generated remixes and covers for streaming songs. Artists can opt out, and those who participate will collect royalties on the AI remixes.
•The tool builds on a partnership Spotify announced in October with UMG, Sony Music Group, Warner Music Group, Merlin, and Believe to create 'responsible AI products' guided by three principles: choice in participation, fair compensation and new revenue, and artist-fan connection.
•Spotify Co-CEO Alex Norström stated the initiative is 'grounded in consent, credit, and compensation for the artists and songwriters that take part.' UMG CEO Sir Lucian Grainge called it a 'pioneering AI-enabled superfan initiative' designed to support human artistry and create additional revenue opportunities.
•Spotify has not announced an exact launch date or pricing beyond the Premium subscription cost.