Spotify partners major labels to develop ‘responsible’ AI music tools

The streaming platform said it is investing heavily in AI research and product development, including establishing a dedicated generative AI research lab and product team. The initiative, revealed on 16 October, aims to create what the company describes as “artist-first” AI tools designed in collaboration with record labels, publishers, and artists.

Spotify stated that the products developed under the partnership would adhere to four core principles: collaboration with rightsholders, choice in participation, fair compensation, and the protection of the artist–fan connection. The company said artists and rightsholders would have control over how AI tools are used in connection with their work and would be properly credited and compensated.

The announcement follows the introduction of new policies on AI-generated content earlier this month, which led to the removal of 75 million tracks from the platform that Spotify said were “spammy.”

Spotify co-president and chief business officer Alex Norström said the company’s goal is to ensure that technology supports creators rather than replaces them. “Technology should always serve artists, not the other way around,” he said. “Our focus is on protecting their rights, respecting their creative choices, and creating new ways for fans to discover and enjoy music.”

Gustav Söderström, co-president and chief product and technology officer, described AI as “the most consequential technology shift since the smartphone.” He said Spotify intends to develop AI tools “hand in hand with the music industry, guided by clear principles and deep respect for creators.”

Leaders of the partner companies also welcomed the move. Sony Music Group chairman Rob Stringer said the collaboration recognises the importance of direct licensing agreements before launching new AI-driven products. “This demonstrates how a properly functioning market benefits everyone in the ecosystem and fuels innovation,” he said.

Universal Music Group chairman and CEO Sir Lucian Grainge described Spotify’s plan as a “critical step forward,” saying that it aligns with his company’s efforts to place artists at the centre of discussions about generative AI. Warner Music Group CEO Robert Kyncl said his company supported Spotify’s “thoughtful AI guardrails,” adding that collaboration was essential to ensure that AI “works for artists and songwriters, not against them.”

Believe founder and CEO Denis Ladegaillerie said the partnership would help develop “value-creative AI tools” that enhance artist careers and fan engagement, while Merlin COO Charlie Lexton said the agreement reflected a shared commitment to copyright protection and the enrichment of the creative community.

Spotify said its new AI lab will work closely with industry partners, artists, and songwriters to develop technologies that “reflect our principles and create breakthrough experiences.” The company added that its goal is to ensure that innovation in music continues “responsibly,” with copyright and artist rights remaining central to future developments.