Warner Music Group and AI startup Udio reach agreement in fight over copyrighted music

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Warner Music Group and AI startup Udio have settled their legal dispute. The disagreement stemmed from Warner Music’s concerns that Udio was using copyrighted songs to develop its AI technology.

Udio will launch a new platform next year that uses artificial intelligence to create music. The AI models will be trained using songs from licensed sources, and the companies, based in New York, say this could include music from WMG’s publishing catalog. Artists and songwriters who participate will have the opportunity to earn additional revenue.

Udio wouldn’t reveal which musicians will be part of its new service, and Warner Music Group didn’t respond to a request for information. Warner Music Group represents artists like Ed Sheeran, Fleetwood Mac, and Madonna.

Currently, the startup’s platform enables users to generate songs from text prompts using AI. The upcoming version, planned for release next year, will expand these capabilities, allowing users to create remixes, covers, and original songs featuring the voices of participating artists and the music of songwriters. These artists and writers will receive credit and compensation for their contributions, according to the companies involved.

According to WMG CEO Robert Kyncl, this partnership supports their overall goal of using AI in a responsible way – opening up new opportunities for creativity and business, and continuing to provide fans with cutting-edge experiences.

Hollywood Inc.

Universal Music Group and AI startup Udio have resolved their legal dispute. UMG had sued Udio, claiming the company used copyrighted songs to develop its artificial intelligence technology.

Last year, several major music companies, including Warner Music Group, Universal Music Group, and Sony Music Entertainment, filed a lawsuit against Udio. They claimed Udio illegally used popular songs – specifically, the Temptations’ “My Girl” – to create a song with a very similar tune called “Sunshine Melody.” Universal Music Group holds the copyright to “My Girl.”

Since launching in 2024, Udio reports millions of users, but hasn’t shared exact numbers for downloads or website visits.

Universal Music Group (UMG) reached a settlement with Udio last month, but Udio hasn’t revealed the details of the agreement. Udio also didn’t share financial information about its partnership with Warner Music Group (WMG), or which artists will participate.

Udio’s partnership with Warner Music Group is a major achievement in its goal to change how AI and music work together, according to co-founder and CEO Andrew Sanchez. He believes this collaboration is key to creating a future where technology helps artists and songwriters be more creative and find new avenues for success.

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I have to say, when I heard about the Universal Music Group and Udio agreement, my initial reaction echoed that of Jordan Bromley, a key figure at the Music Artists Coalition and a leader at Manatt Entertainment Group. He described himself as ‘cautiously optimistic,’ which is exactly how I feel. It’s a potentially positive step, but the devil will really be in the details – and we need to see those details to know if it truly benefits artists.

According to Bromley, a real collaboration means everyone involved should be fairly compensated and properly monitored. He emphasized that the music industry must prioritize this to support artists, fans, and the long-term health of music.

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The Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) has announced that major record labels are suing AI companies Suno and Udio, claiming they illegally used copyrighted songs.

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2025-11-20 00:01