Merlin, the digital licensing agency for independent labels, has signed an agreement with Spotify to include its members’ catalogs in a forthcoming AI-powered covers and remixes tool. The feature, which allows subscribers to generate new versions of songs, was initially introduced with Universal Music Group (UMG) as a partner. Merlin‘s participation extends the tool’s catalog to prominent independent artists.
Artists represented by Merlin will have the option to make their music available for the feature. The tool will be offered as a paid add-on, with the additional revenue shared with rightsholders through the licensing deal.
Merlin has previously entered AI-related licensing agreements with companies such as Udio and ElevenLabs.
Charlie Hellman, Spotify’s Senior Vice President and Global Head of Music, said: “This agreement with Merlin ensures participating artists are credited and compensated, and that every creation drives listeners back to the original work. We’re proud to extend this model to the independent community, and we look forward to welcoming more partners as we continue to build.”
Charlie Lexton, CEO of Merlin, said: “Giving our members’ artists the choice to make their music available as part of this exciting technology, while ensuring the opportunity to participate in an additional revenue stream, is exactly what Merlin is here to do. Spotify’s respect for our members’ and their artists’ rights is exemplary, making our decision to work on this project an easy one.”
