The biggest music industry news | February 2025
Streaming shake-ups, AI controversies, and major licensing deals. Plus, TikTok’s US return, artist protests, and new ways for musicians to create and distribute music.
Spotify wins bundling lawsuit, but MLC fights back
Spotify scored a legal win as a US court dismissed a lawsuit over its bundling of music streaming and audiobook subscriptions. However, the Mechanical Licensing Collective (MLC) isn’t backing down, asking the court to reconsider the case. The battle over fair royalties for songwriters continues.
Spotify’s Q4 report: More users, more revenue
Spotify closed 2024 on a high, reporting strong user growth and increased revenue in its Q4 results. The company’s financial boost came from strategic moves, including a subscription price hike and workforce reductions aimed at streamlining operations.
Cover song distribution just got easier with RouteNote
Great news for artists covering their favourite songs! RouteNote has made it even simpler to distribute cover tracks, ensuring independent musicians can release their music smoothly while staying on the right side of licensing rules.
RouteNote Create is now selling beats for artists
Need high-quality beats? RouteNote Create has now added beats to their varied library of samples, perfect for artists to use in their own tracks. This new addition gives independent musicians access to professional beats without breaking the bank. Beats are available under the new buy-it-now system, meaning no subscription required, and you keep the beat forever!
Spotify and Warner Music strike new multi-year deal
Spotify and Warner Music Group have signed a multi-year licensing agreement, securing Warner’s catalogue on the platform for years to come. The deal reinforces the partnership between one of the biggest labels and the world’s leading streaming service.
Musical AI secures $1.5M to support ethical licensing
A new player in AI music has raised $1.5 million to ensure ethical licensing for AI-generated tracks. As AI continues to shake up the music industry, funding like this could help balance innovation with fair compensation for artists.
TikTok returns to US app stores
After a brief removal, TikTok has returned to the App Store and Google Play in the US. The short-form video giant faced regulatory hurdles, but for now, American users can once again access the platform without restrictions. However, the future of TikTok remains uncertain as another deadline for selling up looms.
Spotify unveils new “Music Pro” tier
Spotify is rolling out a ‘Music Pro’ subscription, promising exclusive features tailored for power users and music professionals. While details remain scarce, the new tier hints at premium perks beyond standard streaming. These potentially could include lossless audio, AI-powered remixing tools, and even concert ticket perks.
Spotify welcomes the arrival of AI-narrated audiobooks
Spotify has introduced AI-narrated audiobooks, opening up a new way to experience stories. The feature, in partnership with AI voice company ElevenLabs, aims to make audiobooks more accessible and affordable, but it also raises questions about the role of AI in creative industries.
1,000 artists protest AI with a silent album
In a bold statement against AI-generated music, 1,000 artists have released a silent album as a form of protest. The album comes as a result of the UK government’s proposed changes to copyright laws, including an “opt-out” system, which has been widely criticised by the music and other creative industries. The move highlights growing concerns about AI’s impact on musicians, royalties, and the future of human creativity.