Global music streaming service Deezer was announced On Wednesday, it launched its new feature, “Remix Lab,” which allows fans to creatively remix songs with the consent of the original artists and rights holders. In addition, the company says that artists are actually paid for each stream of these mixed tracks.
The new Remix Lab feature is in the app on selected artist pages. Unlike competing AI-based services for remixing, Deezer applies in-app tools for remixing, such as adjusting the tempo and adding reverb, or “more elaborate transformations such as changes in musical genre and style,” explained head of product Pierre Trochu in today’s blog post.
In comparison, YouTube allows creators to remix tracks using AI tools, and Spotify recently partnered with Universal Music Group for AI-generated covers and remixes. However, some argue that this approach brings more AI music to these platforms, which could overshadow human artists, making it harder for them to gain traction.
Deezer has taken a strong stance against AI for some time and recently introduced a new tool that analyzes playlists from streaming services like Spotify and Apple Music to detect AI-generated tracks. The platform is also recognized as one of the few streaming services that actively removes AI tracks from its recommendations and omits them from editorial playlists.
“This remix tool perfectly embodies our vision to deliver a product that enriches the listening experience for fans, allowing them to participate in the creative process and create a deeper connection with their favorite music, right in the Deezer app,” said CEO Alexis Lanternier. “In our DNA, these features are made possible by fully engaging artists, fully respecting rights, and maximizing profits for each track.”
While Remix Lab is initially available in France (with vague plans to eventually roll it out to other countries), this feature is notable in the streaming industry for being so opposite of the AI-generated direction that most of them are going. If it proves popular with music fans and artists, it could be a signal that AI’s invasion of streaming services isn’t the only future the music industry could be pursuing.
It could also set an example for other services on how artists can be compensated for their work as fans enjoy remixes. Currently, users can remix tracks from selected French artists including Céline Dion, Alain Souchon, Alonzo, Ronisia, Mosimann, Tiakola and Zaho.
Additionally, users can enter contests hosted on the Deezer Club, where winners will be announced in early September. The winning remixes will be featured on a special Deezer playlist and each winner will also receive two tickets to a Deezer Purple Door event, along with exclusive merchandise from the respective artist.
When you purchase through links in our articles, we may earn a small commission. This does not affect our editorial independence.
