11 SEPTEMBER 2026
UMG AND ELEVENLABS PLAN LICENSED AI MUSIC PLATFORM

WHAT HAPPENED
UMG and ElevenLabs announced a platform where fans can remix, mash up and reinterpret music from participating artists and songwriters. They say artists and writers will share in the value, but no launch date or payment formula was published.

WHY INDEPENDENT ARTISTS SHOULD CARE
It is for participating UMG music—not an open indie tool. But it shows derivative AI uses are becoming licensable rights, not just promotion.

THE DEEPER ARTIST LESSON
Consent needs boundaries: what can change, whose voice can be used and how income and credit flow.

WHAT TO DO NOW
• Review remix, AI and likeness clauses.
• Separate master, song and voice permissions.
• Require approval, payment and withdrawal terms.

SEVAD’S TAKEAWAY
Do not license “AI” as one vague right.

What would you never allow fans to change?