Hajra Naz
Spotify has taken a bold step to handle the rise of AI in music.
The company introduced a three-part plan to push artists toward transparency, limit abuse, and protect creators on its platform.
This move comes as AI music is exploding across streaming services.
Setting New Standards for AI in Music
Spotify is now backing a new standard developed by the Digital Data Exchange (DDEX).
This system helps record labels, producers, and streaming platforms use the same rules for AI in music.
The goal? To create clear guidelines for how AI-generated content is labeled and shared.
Spotify’s team says these rules will roll out once metadata (the behind-the-scenes song details) is ready.
The Velvet Sundown Case: Why AI Music Went Viral
The issue became urgent in June when an AI project called The Velvet Sundown went viral.
Their tracks hit over 3 million streams on Spotify, sparking debates about fairness, royalties, and disclosure.
It showed how fast AI music can spread — and why the industry needs rules.
AI Labeling: Still Optional, For Now
Spotify’s new labeling system lets artists voluntarily disclose how AI was used in their music.
Right now, it’s not mandatory.
Spotify’s Head of Music, Charlie Hellman, explained that AI is not black-and-white anymore.
He said,
“At first, people thought it was either AI or not. Now we see many ways AI is part of the creative process.”
Other Platforms Are Already Flagging AI
Spotify isn’t the only player in this space.
Deezer, a French audio platform, already flags AI music.
Reports show that 28% of tracks uploaded to Deezer are AI-generated. That’s around 30,000 AI songs every day.
This number will only grow as AI tools become easier to use.
No More AI Deepfakes on Spotify
Spotify’s updated policy bans the unsanctioned use of AI.
It will also remove deepfake songs, where AI copies a real artist’s voice without permission.
This means fake Drake, fake Taylor Swift, or fake BTS tracks won’t last long on the platform.
The policy is clear: AI can be used in music, but it cannot steal from real artists.
What This Means for Artists and Fans
For artists, this brings both pressure and opportunity.
Musicians now need to decide how much they reveal about AI use.
For fans, it’s about trust and transparency.
When you hit play, you’ll know if the track is human, AI-assisted, or fully synthetic.
The music industry is moving toward a hybrid future, where AI and humans create side by side.
FAQs
1. Does Spotify allow AI-generated music?
Yes. Spotify allows AI music but under new guidelines. Deepfakes, or stolen voices, are banned.
2. Do artists have to label their AI music?
Not yet. Right now, labeling is voluntary. But Spotify may make it mandatory in the future.
3. Why did Spotify change its policy?
The change came after viral AI tracks raised concerns about copyright, royalties, and artist protection.
4. How is Deezer different from Spotify on AI?
Deezer already flags AI tracks by default, while Spotify is still in testing.
5. What does this mean for listeners?
It means more transparency. You’ll soon know which songs are AI-made and which are fully human.
