Warner Music Group and AI music platform Udio have struck what they call “a landmark agreement” that resolves the companies’ copyright infringement litigation.
The companies have also entered into a licensing deal for a “next-generation” AI–powered music creation, listening, and discovery platform set to launch next year.
The news arrived just an hour after WMG announced a new partnership with Stability AI on Wednesday (November 19), which the companies say will “advance the use of responsible AI in music creation”.
According to a press release, the agreement with Udio spans WMG’s recorded music and music publishing businesses and “creates new revenue streams for artists and songwriters, while ensuring their work remains protected”.
The settlement and licensing deals come just over a year after the RIAA, on behalf of all three major record companies, sued Udio and rival AI platform Suno for “mass infringement” of copyright.
Universal Music Group also settled with Udio last month, in addition to signing a deal for a licensed AI music platform set to launch in 2026.
The two music companies’ agreements with Udio arrive as the majors, along with entities such as Denmark’s Koda and Germany’s GEMA, continue to pursue copyright claims against Suno.
Suno announced just today that it has raised $250 million at a $2.45 billion valuation. The platform is also generating $200 million in annual revenue.
Udio said today that its reimagined subscription service “will introduce a suite of creative experiences that 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 also plans to roll out what it “expanded protections and other measures designed to safeguard the rights of artists and songwriters”.
“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 authorized and licensed.”
Robert Kyncl, WMG
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 authorized 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.”
Andrew Sanchez, Co-Founder and CEO of Udio, added: “Collaborating with WMG marks a significant milestone in our mission to redefine how AI and the music industry evolve together.
“This partnership is a crucial step towards realizing 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 favorite 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.”
According to today’s announcement, Udio’s new platform represents a “significant evolution” for the company, shifting its focus “to a platform built in collaboration with artists and songwriters”.
The announcement added that “to support a smooth transition, Udio will continue providing access to its current, closed-system” as it “transitions into serving fully-licensed applications in 2026”.
Music Business Worldwide
