In the Musictech sector, several large companies are conducting interesting experiments. However, legal challenges keep emerging, just as usual! Let’s catch you up on the latest news this week:
#1. Spotify Bets on Live Shows with Stager
Spotify is continuing its live strategy by partnering with Stager, a Dutch ticketing and event management platform. Through this collaboration, venues and festivals can now display their events directly on artists’ Spotify pages, enhancing concert discovery. This integration opens up a new channel for visibility and ticket sales, targeting fans right where they’re already listening to their favorite artists.
And this is just the beginning: Spotify is reportedly in talks with Live Nation, Apple, and Amazon to rethink the music ticketing model. The platform’s upcoming ‘Super Pro’ subscription could even offer early access to concerts, deepening user engagement like never before.
#2. Meta Takes on CapCut with Its New App “Edits”
As the future of TikTok and its editing tool CapCut remains uncertain in the US, Meta has launched “Edits”, its own video creation app, available since April 22 on iOS and Android. Designed as an alternative to CapCut, Edits offers a full suite of creative tools: high-quality camera features, saved idea drafts, advanced editing functions, collaboration options for creators, and performance tracking on Instagram.
Developed in collaboration with creators through an early access program, the app is intended for use across all platforms. Meta is already planning new features, including keyframe animation, AI-powered effects, and more royalty-free music options. With licensing deals in place with major labels like Universal and Warner, Meta is strengthening its position by targeting creators looking for alternatives to Chinese-made tools.
#3. Video Game Music: A New Playground for Composers
Once pushed to the background, video game music has now emerged as an art form in its own right. In 2023, the Grammy Awards acknowledged this evolution by creating a dedicated category. With the global video game market surpassing $180 billion, the industry now offers real career opportunities for composers—just look at figures like Austin Wintory or Lena Raine, who have become major references in the field.
Top schools like Berklee and USC are following the trend, offering specialized programs. The range of roles is also expanding: beyond composers, music designers have become essential, blending musical sensibility with technical skills.
Still, challenges remain. Tight budgets, limited rights ownership for composers in AAA games, and the precarious nature of freelance work can make it difficult to grow in this sector. Yet enthusiasm remains strong. The game audio community continues to attract new talent every year, fueling and sustaining the movement as it steadily gains momentum.
#4. Warner Music Sues Crumbl Cookies for $24 Million
Warner Music Group (WMG) is taking legal action against the popular cookie chain Crumbl, seeking nearly $24 million for copyright infringement. The lawsuit stems from the unauthorized use of 159 tracks from WMG’s catalog in promotional videos posted on TikTok and Instagram.
The company claims Crumbl used hit songs, such as Coldplay’s “Yellow” to promote yellow cookies and BTS’s “Butter” to market Kentucky butter cake. These recognizable tracks were selected for their catchy hooks, according to the lawsuit filed in Utah.
But that’s not all. Crumbl allegedly worked with influencers, who were paid or rewarded, to spread these videos, further exploiting the protected music without authorization. WMG is now demanding up to $150,000 per infringed track and is challenging the chain’s illegal marketing practices. This legal battle could leave a bitter taste for Crumbl Cookies…
#5. Electronic Music Soars in 2024
The IMS Business Report 2024 reveals an exceptional year for electronic music! Listening growth is significant, especially in Mexico (+60%), the UK, and Germany. On TikTok, the hashtag #ElectronicMusic reached 13.4 billion views, marking a 45% increase. Genres like Amapiano, Afrobeat, and Drum & Bass are experiencing a true boom. Ibiza’s clubs generated €150 million in 2024, and electronic music now accounts for 18% of the line-ups at the top 100 festivals.
With $12.9 billion in revenue in 2024, the industry continues to grow, driven by a new generation of fans and creators. Electronic music has firmly established itself as an undeniable global phenomenon, creating significant revenue opportunities for many players in the industry.
