Merlin and Deezer renew partnership around new streaming model to ensure continuous growth for indie music

21 March 2024 - Press release

 

Merlin, the independent’s digital music licensing partner, and Deezer, one of the world’s leading music experience platforms, are excited to announce their renewed partnership. This new collaboration will protect the way independent music is experienced and valued by integrating Deezer’s artist centric royalty model across Merlin’s dynamic membership of independent record labels, distributors, and other rights holders who represent high-quality music from around the world.

Deezer’s new royalty model represents one of several new approaches being explored by streaming services. The model, which is currently being rolled out in France, includes an incentive for artists with a consistent and engaged fan base, rewards engaging content, and reasserts a focus on music, as well as enhanced fraud detection measures. Merlin’s participation in this model ensures its independent members are fairly compensated for their artist’s music and works towards ensuring a healthy and sustainable music ecosystem for artists.

"I'm very happy to see that Merlin and its members are embracing Deezer's artist centric model and joining us in redefining artist remuneration in the streaming era, to make sure artists are paid more fairly for their music," said Jeronimo Foglueira, CEO, Deezer. "From the start, our ambition has been that the new model should serve all artists with a consistent fan base, including the indie acts represented by the membership of Merlin."

“Merlin's mission is to ensure that the voices of its independent members are heard and that they have access to the most innovative opportunities in the digital marketplace while ensuring their artists are fairly compensated,” said Jeremy Sirota, CEO, Merlin. “We have worked with Deezer to ensure their new model works for the benefit of our members, representing a path forward in ensuring that high-quality music, and the artists who create it, are recognized and rewarded in the manner they deserve.”

Deezer’s approach to this new model comes at a crucial time, as digital platforms test new solutions for ensuring the quality and fair value of music. By prioritizing artist and fan engagement, Merlin and Deezer are exploring a more purposeful music streaming experience.

Ryan McWhinnie, VP of Business and Legal Affairs, Merlin, noted: “Renewing our partnership with Deezer highlights Merlin’s commitment to our mission and the importance of collaboration in shaping a future where independent music thrives. I was pleased to work so closely with the Deezer team to finalize this renewal.”