Spotify, Warner Music Group Ink New Multi-Year Deal

Spotify and Warner Music Group struck a new multi-year distribution deal covering music and music publishing, similar to an agreement the global streamer announced with Universal Music late last month.

The new publishing agreement introduces a direct licensing model with Warner Chappell Music in several additional countries including the U.S., reinforcing songwriters’ benefit and “building on the companies’ existing alignment around ‘artist centric’ royalty models that reward and protect the power of artists to attract and engage audiences.”

The partners said the deal will help deliver new fan experiences, a deeper music and video catalog, further paid subscription tiers, and differentiated content bundles.

“This major agreement delivers new benefits for artists, songwriters, and fans, while unlocking further collaboration that expands the music ecosystem,” said WMG GEO Robert Kyncl. “It’s a big step forward in our vision for greater alignment between rights holders and streaming services. Together with Spotify, we look forward to increasing the value of music, as we drive growth, impact, and innovation.”

“For Spotify, 2025 is a year of accelerated execution, and our partners at Warner Music Group share our commitment to rapid innovation and sustained investment in our leading music offerings,” said Daniel Ek, Spotify founder and CEO. The company Tuesday reported its first annual profit since it launched in 2008.

The streamer in the past has been criticized for not providing adequate royalties to artists, including a high profile standoff with Taylor Swift in 2014.

“Together, we’re pushing the boundaries of what’s possible for audiences worldwide—making paid music subscriptions more appealing while supporting artists and songwriters alike.”