Spotify
is working on new tools that would allow users to
remix songs
directly on the streaming platform, according to screenshots captured by app researcher Chris Messina and first reported by The Wall Street Journal. The mixing capabilities, which would be part of a new "
Music Pro
"
premium subscription
tier, aim to capitalise on the growing popularity of user-generated remixes on social media platforms like
TikTok
.
Sources familiar with the discussions told The Wall Street Journal that while the plans are in the early stages and licensing agreements have yet to be finalised, the goal is to enable users to modify songs by adjusting the tempo, blending tracks, and applying various transition styles. The remixed versions could then be saved for repeat listening within Spotify.
As seen in the screenshots shared with TechCrunch, the mixing tools would allow users to "flex their DJ skills" by setting the tempo range and filtering songs by "genres, moods, activities, and more" to create the "ultimate mix." The app's code also suggests the presence of automated features that would help users sequence tracks with similar keys, tempos, and styles, making it easier for those without mixing experience to create their perfect mix.
Sources say that the remix tool is a response to the increasing popularity of modified songs on TikTok. About 38% of songs had their speeds or pitches changed in 2023, up from 25% in 2022. Even, according to Spotify’s year end report in 2023, sped-up remixes of songs were among the most listened music.
However, artists and labels often don't receive royalties from these altered versions, as they are difficult to track and are distributed across various platforms.
The new mixing tools will likely allow musicians to earn money from remixes tied to their original tracks, addressing the issue of unofficial remixes with millions of streams on the platform. Some artists, such as SZA, Lana Del Rey, and The Cab, have already adopted the trend of releasing official sped-up versions of songs in an effort to encourage listeners to stream their official tracks instead of fan-made versions.
While traditional user-created remixes uploaded to streaming platforms or shared on social media don't generate revenue for artists, Spotify's approach could open up new revenue streams for musicians.
The alleged “Music Pro” tier is said to be an add-on to the Premium subscription. The tier is also reported to bring the option for lossless audio streaming, advanced library filters, and along with a few more AI-powered features.
English (US) ·