Universal Music Group and ElevenLabs Partner to Launch AI Music Platform
- Universal Music Group and AI audio startup ElevenLabs have struck a multi-year strategic licensing agreement to launch an AI-powered music creation platform.
- The upcoming platform represents ElevenLabs’ first collaboration with a major record label.
- According to Universal Music Group Chairman and CEO Sir Lucian Grainge, the partnership aims to put artists, songwriters, and fans at the center of artificial intelligence innovation.
Universal Music Group and AI audio startup ElevenLabs have struck a multi-year strategic licensing agreement to launch an AI-powered music creation platform. According to announcements released by both companies on September 10, 2026, the platform will allow fans to create remixes, mashups, and new track interpretations using catalog material from participating artists and songwriters.
A New Licensed Platform for Fans and Artists
The upcoming platform represents ElevenLabs’ first collaboration with a major record label. According to Universal Music Group and ElevenLabs, the system will give users ways to co-create with music while ensuring proper rights management and fair compensation for creators. Participating artists and songwriters will be able to offer personalized vocal experiences and track interpretations to their audiences. The platform is designed to let fans interact directly with artist tracks in ways that differ from standard listening models.
Strategic Partnership and Industry Context
According to Universal Music Group Chairman and CEO Sir Lucian Grainge, the partnership aims to put artists, songwriters, and fans at the center of artificial intelligence innovation. Grainge stated that responsible AI can inspire discovery and unlock new revenue opportunities for the creative community. ElevenLabs co-founder and CEO Mati Staniszewski noted that combining Universal Music Group’s rights management expertise with ElevenLabs’ audio models will enable secure and powerful fan experiences. This deal stands apart from Universal’s previous agreements with AI music startups like Hook and Udio because it involves building an entirely new joint platform from the ground up.
Standalone Products and Ongoing Legal Battles
The new fan creation platform will remain distinct from ElevenLabs’ existing commercial offerings. Those products include the ElevenLabs Music API for developers and ElevenMusic, an application for generating and editing original songs with granular control over vocals and instrumentation. Meanwhile, Universal Music Group and Sony Music Entertainment continue active litigation against Suno in court regarding alleged copyright infringement.