AI to spur more music creativity, not a threat: Spotify CEO

Core Viewpoint - Artificial intelligence is expected to enhance music creation rather than pose a threat to the industry, according to Spotify's CEO Daniel Ek [1][2]. Group 1: AI and Music Creation - The rise of machine-learning tools in music production has sparked concerns about AI-generated music potentially replacing human artists [2][3]. - Ek expresses optimism about the future of creativity with AI, emphasizing that the industry is just beginning to explore this new frontier [2][4]. - The barriers to music creation are diminishing, leading to an increase in the number of people who will create music [5]. Group 2: Spotify's Position and Growth - Spotify had 678 million active users as of March, including 268 million paying subscribers, and aims to reach over a billion paying subscribers globally [7][8]. - The company achieved its first annual profit in 2024 and has 100 million paying subscribers in Europe alone [7]. - Ek views the development of AI in the music industry as an evolution rather than a revolution, highlighting the potential for increased creativity among artists [7][4]. Group 3: Controversies and Responses - Spotify has faced accusations of using AI to create music under fake profiles, which allegedly undermines real artists by reducing their royalties [3]. - The company has denied these claims, asserting its commitment to human artists and creators [3].