UMG, AMAZON MUSIC TACKLE "STREAMING 2.0"

Universal Music Group and Amazon Music are expanding their relationship to "explore new and enhanced product opportunities designed to benefit artists and enrich the experience of their fans," the companies announced today, 12/23.

As part of what UMG Chairman/CEO Lucian Grainge is calling the era of "Streaming 2.0," UMG will assist Amazon Music's continuing expansion into audiobooks and livestreamed programming. The companies will "work collaboratively" to guard against illegal AI content, fraud and misattribution.

UMG has partnered with a number of AI-focused entities in recent months, including ProRata.AI, Endel, Klay Vision and SoundLabs.

"We appreciate Amazon Music’s deep commitment to the interests of our artists and look forward to progressing our shared artist-centric objectives through product innovation and accelerating growth of their service," Grainge said.

Added Amazon VP of Audio, Twitch and Games Steve Boom, "UMG has always been a collaborative partner to Amazon Music, and as we continue to invent and introduce more artist-to-fan connections through our product and exclusive content, we’re redefining what it means to be a streaming service."

Meanwhile, HITS will continue to redefine what it means to be grumpy and under-caffeinated.