Spotify and independent licensing agency Merlin have reached an agreement that will allow artists signed to Merlin-member labels to make their music available for a forthcoming fan-made covers and remixing tool.
The deal is structured so rightsholders are credited and compensated when listeners create derivative works from their catalogues. Spotify has previously said the tool will launch as a paid add-on, generating an additional revenue stream for participating artists while directing listeners back to the original recordings.
Executive comments#
“This agreement with Merlin ensures participating artists are credited and compensated, and that every creation drives listeners back to the original work,” said Charlie Hellman, senior vice president and global head of music at Spotify. “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, chief executive 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.”
Platform and market figures#
Spotify, launched in 2008, is the world’s largest audio streaming subscription service. Its reported metrics include:
- 777 million monthly active users
- 300 million subscribers across 184 markets
- More than 100 million tracks, 7 million podcast titles and 700,000 audiobooks
Merlin negotiates digital licensing deals on behalf of independent labels and distributors worldwide. Its members represent approximately 15% of the global recorded music market and include partners such as Apple, YouTube and Meta, among more than 40 other platforms.
