The biggest music industry news | January 2026
RouteNote Licensing launch and Pandora AMP updates, Spotify’s record-breaking payout, price changes and 2026 plans, and Bandcamp’s AI music ban. Plus, Udio AI licensing deals, Tidal’s $100K artist awards, and how artists can get support with B-LINE.
RouteNote Licensing is launched
RouteNote has launched a new sync licensing service designed for creators, offering access to royalty-free music for use in videos, social content, podcasts, and more. The platform makes it easier for creators to find and legally use quality music and sound effects without worrying about copyright claims. Rights to sounds downloaded from RouteNote Licensing never expire, meaning unlimited creativity and no legal headaches.
Pandora AMP gets a refresh
Pandora has rolled out an update to Pandora AMP that makes it easier for artists and labels to manage their catalog and understand track performance. A redesigned Catalog tab now shows pre-release content, while improved filtering, track grouping, and clearer track detail pages help creators dig deeper into how different versions of their music are performing.
Spotify outlines its vision for 2026
Spotify’s new Co-CEOs, Alex Norström and Gustav Söderström, have shared what’s ahead for the platform in 2026. Music remains Spotify’s foundation, with a continued focus on meaningful discovery, giving listeners more control, and using technology to support creativity. The company’s vision is clear: Spotify’s priorities aren’t changing, but its tools and experiences will keep evolving for fans and creators alike.
Bandcamp bans AI-generated music
In a significant move, Bandcamp has introduced strict new policies that block AI-generated music from the platform, reinforcing its long-standing artist-first approach. By banning tracks created wholly or largely by AI and prohibiting impersonation, Bandcamp is drawing a clear line in an industry still grappling with how AI should be used. The move reassures artists and fans that Bandcamp remains focused on genuine, human creativity.
Spotify raises Premium prices in the US
Spotify has confirmed a new Premium price increase in the US, alongside Estonia and Latvia, with changes rolling out from February 2026. US subscribers will see a $1 rise across all plans, marking Spotify’s first US increase in nearly two years. While the move may frustrate listeners, it could significantly grow Spotify’s revenue pool, with analysts estimating that even a $1 monthly increase across the US could generate $500 million in additional annual revenue.
Udio and Merlin strike AI licensing deal
Udio has partnered with Merlin to give independent labels and distributors control over AI use of their music. The opt-in deal lets independent rightsholders license tracks for AI training while ensuring fair compensation. This marks another step toward responsible AI creation in music, and follows Udio’s earlier agreements with major labels.
Tidal awards $100K to 10 indie artists
Tidal has given $100,000 each to ten independent artists through its Headliners contest, part of the Upload platform launched in 2025. The initiative bypasses traditional labels and streaming royalties, offering direct financial support and editorial visibility to help artists invest in their careers and grow sustainably.
Spotify’s record-breaking $11 billion payout
Spotify revealed it paid out more than $11 billion to the music industry in 2025, marking the largest annual payment to the industry from a single retailer ever. It’s the platform’s second consecutive year of a record-breaking payout, with independents once again driving a major share of royalties. For 2026, Spotify says its focus is on helping artists grow and build more sustainable careers.
B-LINE’s here for artists mental support
Backline launched B-LINE, a new 24/7 mental health and crisis support line built specifically for the music industry. The service connects those in need with trained counsellors who understand the unique pressures of music careers, and is accessible anytime, day, or night. If you or someone on your team is struggling, help is now only a call or text away.