Spotify now allows fans to create AI-powered covers and remixes from participating artists

• AI-generated photo

Spotify and  Universal Music Group announced a new licensing agreement that will allow fans to create AI-powered covers and remixes of songs from participating artists and songwriters directly on Spotify.

The companies said the upcoming feature will be introduced as a paid add-on for Spotify Premium subscribers, opening what they described as a new “artist-centric” model for fan-created music content.

According to Spotify and UMG, the new tool will use generative artificial intelligence (AI) technology to let users legally create licensed covers and remixes of their favorite tracks while ensuring artists and songwriters receive compensation and credit.

Spotify Co-CEO Alex Norström said the initiative aims to balance fan creativity with artist protection.

“Fan-made covers and remixes are next. What we’re building is grounded in consent, credit, and compensation for the artists and songwriters that take part,” Norström said.

Sir Lucian Grainge, chairman and chief executive officer of UMG, said the partnership is designed to deepen connections between artists and fans while creating new revenue opportunities.

“The most valuable innovations in the music business always bring artists and fans closer together,” Grainge said.

The companies added that the feature could create additional income streams for artists and songwriters beyond existing Spotify royalties, while also helping fans discover and interact with music in new ways.

The announcement comes as the global music industry continues exploring how generative AI can be used in music creation while addressing concerns surrounding copyright, consent, artist ownership, and fair compensation.