"Big three" major labels sign licensing deal with AI start-up KLAY

Warner Music Group (WMG), Sony Music Entertainment (SME), and Universal Music Group (UMG) have made licensing deals with KLAY, an AI-powered music streaming start-up. 

The licensing agreements have been described as a "first-of-their-kind" for an AI company, placing KLAY as the first to secure deals with all of the "big three" major labels.

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In a statement shared via its website last week (November 20), the Los Angeles-based company said the agreements will "help further evolve music experiences for fans, leveraging the potential of AI, while fully respecting the rights of artists, songwriters, and rightsholders."

By utilising its patented 'Large Music Model' technology, KLAY claims its streaming platform will "reimagine listening with immersive, interactive tools," with AI that is “trained entirely on licensed music.”

"At a time when many AI music projects are accused of unethical training protocols and practices towards the artistic community, KLAY has, from the beginning, taken a unique path," the statement continues. 

"Working in partnership with the music industry to pioneer a new active listening model designed to enhance both human creativity and the consumer experience." 

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Having reached agreements with "the big three," KLAY's statement claims it will now "expand efforts" into working with independent labels, publishers, and artists.

While KLAY is the first to sign a deal with the major labels, fellow AI start-ups Sunio and Udio are also reportedly in talks to secure similar licensing agreements.

Udio confirmed last week that it had struck a deal with Warner Music Group following a copyright infringement lawsuit against it from UMG, SME, and WMG. 

Megan Townsend is Mixmag's Deputy Editor, follow on Twitter