Warner Music Group has agreed a licensing deal that establishes a clear framework for the development of Udio’s licensed AI music creation service, set to launch in 2026.
The agreement also resolves the companies’ copyright infringement litigation. It follows Udio’s recent deal with Universal Music Group.
Through this collaboration, Udio will develop a music creation, listening and discovery platform powered by generative AI models trained on licensed and authorised music. The agreement – which spans WMG’s recorded music and music publishing businesses – creates new revenue streams for artists and songwriters, while ensuring their work remains protected.
"Collaborating with WMG marks a significant milestone in our mission to redefine how AI and the music industry evolve together,” said Andrew Sanchez, co-founder and CEO of Udio. “This partnership is a crucial step towards realising a future in which technology amplifies creativity and unlocks new opportunities for artists and songwriters. Our new platform will enable experiences where fans can create alongside their favourite artists and make extraordinary music in an environment that offers artists control and connection. We're absolutely thrilled to be working with WMG in creating this new future."
Robert Kyncl, CEO, WMG, said: “We’re unwaveringly committed to the protection of the rights of our artists and songwriters, and Udio has taken meaningful steps to ensure that the music on its service will be authorised and licensed. This collaboration aligns with our broader efforts to responsibly unlock AI's potential – fueling new creative and commercial possibilities while continuing to deliver innovative experiences for fans.”
This collaboration aligns with our broader efforts to responsibly unlock AI's potential
Robert Kyncl
Udio’s reimagined subscription service will enable users to make remixes, covers and new songs using the voices of artists and compositions of songwriters who choose to participate, while ensuring artists and songwriters are credited and paid.
Ahead of the launch, Udio will also be rolling out expanded protections and other measures designed to safeguard the rights of artists and songwriters.
“This new offering represents a significant evolution for Udio, shifting the company’s focus to a platform built in collaboration with artists and songwriters,” added the statement.
Udio will continue providing access to its current, closed-system as Udio transitions into serving fully-licensed applications in 2026.
In a separate deal, Warner Music Group and Stability AI have announced a collaborative effort to advance the use of responsible AI in music creation.
The initiative will focus on developing professional-grade tools that enable artists, songwriters and producers to experiment, compose and produce using ethically trained models.
Carletta Higginson, EVP, chief digital officer, WMG, said: “This collaboration represents an important step toward developing responsible, artist-friendly AI tools that expand creative possibilities while safeguarding the rights and integrity of music creators. Together, we’re laying the groundwork for an ethical music ecosystem that benefits artists and songwriters.”
Prem Akkaraju, CEO of Stability AI, said: “WMG is a leader in the global music and entertainment landscape, and we’re proud to partner with a company that shares our Artist First ethos. At Stability AI we put artists at the centre and build tools that support their creative process. This partnership deepens that focus and will open new creative possibilities for artists through generative AI.”
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