A HOT POTATO: Following a massive uproar over Spotify's wholehearted embrace of AI-generated music, co-CEO Alex Norström has defended the controversial move, claiming it is a better alternative to unregulated AI content. The statement comes days after Spotify introduced a contentious AI feature that allows listeners to create AI-generated remixes and song covers.
Speaking to the Financial Times, Norström described the new feature as a "legal" and "controlled" way for users to create AI-generated music without resorting to piracy. He acknowledged that some of the backlash to AI-generated content is "reasonable," but said Spotify will continue to protect musicians while offering users an AI-driven music experience.
The interview followed Spotify's announcement of a deal with Universal Music Group to introduce an AI tool that will allow premium users to create their own AI-generated remixes and song covers using music from participating artists. Norström added that tracks will only be available for AI remixing and cover creation with the artist's consent, and that artists will also be compensated through the feature.
Fans and musicians have spoken out almost unanimously against the announcement, with many critics urging the company to avoid what they describe as AI slop. While Spotify has not banned AI content entirely, it has been proactively flagging AI-generated music on its platform. To that end, the company introduced a "Verified by Spotify" badge for human creators, intended to help listeners distinguish between human and AI-generated content.
