Universal Music Group and ElevenLabs to Launch AI-Powered Music Platform in Expansive Licensing Deal — SkimNews
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- Universal Music Group struck an expansive licensing deal with ElevenLabs to launch an AI-powered music platform built on UMG's catalog, enabling fans to remix tracks, create mashups, "new track interpretations" and "personalized vocal experiences" alongside additional AI audio products.
- The deal differs from UMG's existing AI partnerships with remixing tool Hook and AI music generator Udio because it involves collaborating on an entirely new platform, according to the source.
- The announcement came one day after Suno launched its first label-powered models backed by Warner Music Group, Believe and BMG; UMG and Sony Music Entertainment remain in court fighting Suno over alleged copyright infringement.
- ElevenLabs raised $500 million in a Series D round earlier this year at an $11 billion valuation — five months after a $100 million employee tender offer at a $6.6 billion valuation — and has previously licensed voices and IP including Hasbro's character suite.
- ElevenLabs released two volumes of "The Eleven Album," co-created with singers including Liza Minelli and Art Garfunkel alongside AI-generated music artists, with an AI model to produce "studio-quality compositions."
- UMG Chairman & CEO Sir Lucian Grainge said responsible AI can "unlock new revenue opportunities for the creative community," while ElevenLabs CEO Mati Staniszewski pledged artists and songwriters will be "fairly compensated."
Why it matters: UMG is building a dedicated, full-stack AI music platform with ElevenLabs rather than just licensing to existing tools like Hook or Udio, giving the label direct control over how its catalog gets remixed and monetized. The deal arrives as rival Suno simultaneously secured backing from Warner, Believe and BMG while still being sued by UMG and Sony — splitting the industry's AI strategy between collaboration and litigation.
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