Universal Music Group (UMG) and Warner Music Group (WMG), two of the world’s largest record labels, are in advanced negotiations to license their music catalogs for artificial intelligence training and generative applications, according to people familiar with the matter.
Major Labels at the AI Table
The talks span both specialized AI startups and major tech platforms, including ElevenLabs, Stability AI, Suno, Udio, Klay Vision, Google, and Spotify. If finalized, the agreements would grant AI firms access to millions of tracks, enabling the development of more advanced generative audio models.
Such models could power applications ranging from hyper-personalized playlists and voice synthesis to AI-assisted songwriting and music production tools.
From Confrontation to Collaboration
The negotiations represent a shift in how the music industry engages with AI. Over the past year, unlicensed use of copyrighted works in AI training has sparked legal disputes and calls for stronger IP protections. By pursuing licensing deals, UMG and WMG aim to protect artists while also securing new revenue streams from the AI boom.
“Generative AI is reshaping the creative industries, and music can’t be left behind,” said one industry observer. “These talks signal that the major labels want to be at the table, not on the sidelines.”
Artist Compensation and Industry Standards
Sources suggest the deals will include royalty and usage provisions, ensuring artists are compensated when their works are used to train AI or fuel downstream applications. Analysts note that if finalized, such agreements could establish industry-wide standards for AI-music collaboration.
AI’s Growing Role in Music
Companies like Spotify have already experimented with AI-driven features such as personalized DJ curation, while startups like Suno and Udio focus on generative music creation. By licensing their catalogs, UMG and WMG could accelerate innovation in music discovery, consumption, and creation.
What’s Next?
While details are still under negotiation, insiders expect announcements could come before the end of 2025. If successful, the UMG and WMG deals may pave the way for other rights holders, including Sony Music, to pursue similar partnerships—reshaping the relationship between AI and the global music industry.
