From Engadget · Matt Tate · · 1m 30s
UMG signs its first AI deal with ElevenLabs
The label that wants AI slop banned from the charts just licensed its catalog to an AI audio company.
In brief
The label that wants AI slop banned from the charts just licensed its catalog to an AI audio company. Major labels are done fighting AI in court and are now licensing their way into it, on terms they set. Originally reported by Engadget.
UMG and ElevenLabs team up
Universal Music Group and ElevenLabs announced a multi-year licensing deal and a broader partnership to build a new AI-powered music platform.
“wider strategic collaboration”
A first for ElevenLabs
This is the first agreement ElevenLabs has struck with a major label. The new platform will be separate from its existing ElevenMusic generation tool.
Built for remixes and mashups
The software is aimed at fans who want to remix and mash up tracks, plus "new track interpretations and personalized vocal experiences" from the catalog.
“new track interpretations and personalized vocal experiences”
Artists opt in and get paid
Only music from participating UMG artists will be available, and the label says those artists will be "fairly compensated". No name or release date yet.
The same label wanted AI banned
Months ago UMG joined other majors calling for AI slop tracks to be pulled from charts worldwide, while labels sued AI companies like Suno and Udio over copyright.
Lawsuits keep ending in deals
Warner's 2024 suit against Udio settled into a license. This week Suno launched its v6 models and said its relationships with Warner and BMG are now formal.
In short
Major labels are done fighting AI in court and are now licensing their way into it, on terms they set.
