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Comment: Henrik Hansen - Business Lead, Rough Bones

Much of the conversation around artificial intelligence in music has centered on its existential threat to human creativity. We've all seen the headlines about AI-generated songs mimicking artists' voices and the looming copyright battles that will inevitably follow. But there's another AI revolution happening quietly behind the scenes that could permanently alter the industry's power dynamics.

What nobody is talking about is how AI will create an even bigger disparity between majors and independents when it comes to data analysis.

Make no mistake, data is the most valuable commodity in the music industry today. With enough data, and the tools and expertise to leverage it effectively, a record label can crunch the numbers to not only validate an A&R approach but illuminate brand new opportunities that were previously under the radar.

At my own independent label, Rough Bones, our recent expansion into Afrobeat was greatly informed by data. Using our own in-house algorithms and a mass of publicly available information, we've been able to create a robust model to determine ROI for each A&R decision we make. This has allowed us to answer critical questions: Is this artist worth signing? What's a fair advance? Are there emerging markets we should be targeting?

AI has greatly enhanced our ability to gather and interpret this data. When an A&R executive brings an artist they believe in, we can now run comprehensive analyses that either validate that "gut feeling" or suggest we look elsewhere. In an industry where margins are increasingly tight, this approach maximises our limited resources.

It's no secret that the major music corporations are investing heavily in AI-powered data analysis. They also have incredible banks of information, based on their own catalogs alone, with which to power that analysis. With their technological resources and financial firepower, they're developing increasingly sophisticated algorithms that provide ever more accurate forecasting and market exploration.

In the music industry and beyond, data is now the biggest weapon for companies competing for the next big thing. When we see major acquisitions like UMG snapping up Downtown and PIAS, we think of them as grabbing market share - perhaps more importantly, however, is the fact that with each new acquisition, they're adding to their data banks. How much invaluable information does the addition of FUGA alone give UMG?

Consider also the potential data advantages that could come from special relationships between majors and DSPs. While we don't know the exact details of deals between the biggest music companies and their streaming equivalents, it's not unreasonable to wonder whether such partnerships might include privileged access to data that indies simply don't have.

The shift is already visible in the majors' strategies. They've largely moved away from developing artists, focusing instead on marketing and acquisition. Why take risks developing unknown talent when data can tell you exactly which established artists and labels to acquire?

On an individual basis, independent labels are sorely lacking when it comes to data and analytical capabilities. Anecdotally speaking, based on conversations I have had with peers, I'm often surprised by how little thought even the bigger independent companies have given to data-driven technologies. Without tech backgrounds, many label heads don't fully appreciate what modern data analysis can accomplish.

So how can indies make sure the distance between themselves and the majors in this great data race doesn't become insurmountable?

We need to come together. Data is no good when it's fragmented. Just as the majors consolidate data through acquisition, we need to consolidate our data through collaboration. The tools are already available to leverage that data set once it is up to scale.

Even a small number of labels with a combined catalogue of, say, one thousand recordings, could create a powerful dataset. With the right anonymised data-sharing framework, independents have the ability to create systems that help them identify market gaps, forecast song performance, and discover emerging talent uniquely positioned for growth.

Such a system could even suggest unexpected collaborations across genres or labels that might generate additional income and new opportunities that individual labels would never have discovered on their own.

There will, of course, be a finer details to work out: finding the right partners of similar size and complementary catalogs for initial proof-of-concept collaborations will be important.

What's certain is that the independent sector needs to act soon. As majors continue to develop their AI capabilities and acquire more data, the gulf will only widen. Without a unified front from independents to leverage collective data power, we risk being left behind in an increasingly data-driven music industry.

The technology exists. The potential benefits are clear. All that remains is for independents to recognise that, in the AI age, collaboration might be our only path to competitiveness.

The question is: Who is willing to share their most precious commodity?

15 Oct 2025 | Press release

IFPI shuts down Y2mate.com and 11 other major stream ripping sites in landmark action in Vietnam

IFPI, the organisation representing the recording industry worldwide, has today announced the successful closure of Y2mate.com, one of the world's most visited stream ripping sites, together with 11 other stream ripping sites following targeted enforcement action in Vietnam.   Y2mate.com and the...more

15 Oct 2025 | Press release

First LIVE Trust grant making strategy published

Applications welcomed before year-end with initial grants awarded in January.   The LIVE Trust has published its initial grant making strategy detailing its approach to investing in programmes that benefit grassroots venues, artists, promoters, and festivals.  This paper covers the Trust’s planned...more

15 Oct 2025 | Press release

First speakers for ESNS conference confirmed

Bella Union, EXIT Festival, FKP Scorpio, IMPALA, K2 Agency, Nettwerk Music Group, Pohoda Festival and WME are part of Europe’s largest music conference program in Groningen ESNS (Eurosonic Noorderslag) announces the first speakers for its annual music conference, taking place from...more

15 Oct 2025 | Press release

Growing indie Minds On Fire signs admin deal with Sony Music Publishing and Exclusive Writer deal with Jay Gilbert

Minds On Fire today announced a new partnership with Sony Music Publishing (SMP), the world’s leading music publisher, which will provide worldwide administration services for Minds On Fire’s acclaimed catalogue and roster of songwriters and producers.  Minds On Fire’s roster includes...more

15 Oct 2025 | Press release

Concord Music Publishing ANZ Signs Global Publishing Deal with Floodlights

  Concord Music Publishing ANZ is proud to announce the signing of acclaimed Australian rock outfit Floodlights to a global publishing deal. Formed by Louis Parsons, Ashlee Kehoe, Archie Shannon, Joe Draffen and Sarah Hellyer, Floodlights have become one of Australia's most...more

15 Oct 2025 | Press release

October's Bandcamp Friday Generates Over $3 Million for Independent Artists and Labels in Just 24 Hours

Since 2020, Fans Have Helped Put Over $140 Million Directly in the Hands of Independent Artists and Labels    Bandcamp, the world's largest online music marketplace and community, has once again brought artists and fans together in a powerful show of support, with...more

15 Oct 2025 | Press release

Warner Music Central Europe combines Benelux and GSA

Niels Walboomers appointed President of the expanded region Doreen Schimk and Fabian Drebes will step down as WM Central Europe Co-Presidents after a successful four year tenure Warner Music Central Europe is expanding to combine its recorded music businesses in Benelux...more

15 Oct 2025 | Press release

Echora Lets Artists and Creators Own Their Influence in Generative AI

New startup uses live reference to attribute exactly what music or images have led to specific outputs, partnering with Muso.AI to ensure accurate music credits. Creative works are the foundation of any AI that generates music, images, videos, 3D models, or...more

15 Oct 2025 | Press release

Digital 2026: Internet users pass 6 billion, social media users become a 'supermajority', and AI use tops 1 billion

Report finds social media added over a quarter of a billion new user identities in the last year, but user behaviours are evolving   Meltwater, a global leader in media, social and consumer intelligence and We Are Social, the socially-led creative agency, have...more

14 Oct 2025 | Press release

Final winners revealed at the DJ Awards iconic Ibiza ceremony

https://www.instagram.com/thedjawards/ The DJ Awards 2025 lit up ROTO Club in Ibiza Town with a suitably spectacular and proudly independent ceremony celebrating the very best in electronic music culture. The night was full of special, end of season, energy and the winners...more

14 Oct 2025 | Press release

Call for Recording Studios to Be Recognised Under Retail, Hospitality and Leisure Business Rates Relief

Petition  The Music Producers Guild, supported by UK Music, are calling on the government to recognise UK recording studios as eligible for reduced business rates under the Retail, Hospitality and Leisure (RHL) scheme, a move that could safeguard hundreds of vital cultural...more

14 Oct 2025 | Press release

Nettwerk Music Group appoints Owen Lloyd as Director, Catalogue Marketing and Development

Nettwerk UK announces their latest strategic hire in anexciting new chapter of expansion for the label.  Owen Lloyd joins the growing London based Nettwerk team to lead on all catalogue marketing strategy and initiatives globally. Bringing across a wealth of experience from Universal Music Recordings, where he...more

14 Oct 2025 | Press release

São Paulo Court Issues Another Ruling Against Streaming Fraud Under Operation Authentica

  A civil court in São Paulo has issued a further positive ruling against a provider of streaming manipulation services, used for streaming fraud, reinforcing the message in Brazil that streaming fraud tools are illegal.The 17th Civil Court ruled against the operators...more

14 Oct 2025 | Press release

The Cat's Mother of the Year Award 2025

Supported by Amazon Music Presented to music supervisor and business leader Abi Leland     Recruitment drive launched for mentors from A&R, Branding, Creative Direction, Digital Marketing, Events and Live   The Cat's Mother, the not-for-profit music industry mentoring and networking service founded by Natalie Wade in 2019,...more

14 Oct 2025 | Press release

AlphaTheta prepares 2025 return to Amsterdam Dance Event

For the first time in several years, AlphaTheta will be back at the ADE Lab for the whole of the festival, hosting events there and in 3 other locations: Amsterdam Flavours, Gashouder Office and a pop-up venue in a container,...more

14 Oct 2025 | Press release

War Child invites 52 artists to create artwork inspired by Kate Bush’s ‘Running Up That Hill’ for Sound & Vision 2025

  Peter Doig, Maggi Hambling CBE, Corbin Shaw, Unskilled Worker and over 50 more visual artists respond to Kate Bush’s Running Up That Hill to raise funds for War Child, the specialist charity for children caught in conflict.  Bidding starts at just £100 for...more

13 Oct 2025 | Press release

LIVE, NAA, MVT, BACH urge Government rethink on tax hike ahead of critical Autumn Budget

  The live music sector has written to Government calling for an exemption for live music venues from the new higher business rates multiplier for large properties. The Government's new business rates policy will raise business rates for buildings with a rateable...more

10 Oct 2025 | Press release

Long-Overdue Licensing Reform Offers Hope for a Modern, Balanced System Says NTIA

Statement from Michael Kill, CEO of the Night Time Industries Association on the Government’s “Cheers to Change” Licensing Consultation Announcement “We are pleased to see the Government’s announcement of an expedited consultation period following the Licensing Taskforce’s recent recommendations, as part...more

10 Oct 2025 | Press release

AWAL promotes Arif Mahmud to General Counsel & SVP of Global Business Affairs

  Arif Mahmud has been promoted to the role of General Counsel and SVP of Global Business Affairs at AWAL. Arif is based in AWAL’s London office and will continue to report to Lonny Olinick, the company’s CEO.  Arif started his career...more

10 Oct 2025 | Press release

Nina Protocol Launches Revenue Share System That Pays Fans for Music Discovery

Music platform Nina Protocol today launched Community Revenue Share, a system that pays fans directly when they help artists sell music. For the first time, listeners, curators, and tastemakers can earn money for the music discovery and sharing they already...more

10 Oct 2025 | Press release

Lady Gaga, Bruno Mars, Elton John and Adele named the most influential artists for brand partnerships

Luminate – the entertainment industry’s leading data partner – have released a new report - Matching Marketers with Music Talent.    The report reveals how brands can apply a “moneyball” approach to music partnerships – using data, not just instinct, to identify artists who align...more

10 Oct 2025 | Press release

Black Lives in Music Presents: Classically Black, 2025

Kings Place, London 18th October The one day symposium classical event returns for a second year Featuring Dr Kadiatu Kanneh-Mason, Pete Letanka, Simmy Singh, Sabi Ensemble, The Jollof House Party Opera, Paulette Bayley and DJ Spoony & Friends and more ‘New...more

09 Oct 2025 | Press release

LOLA. ARTISTS launches as new independent live music agency led by Jamie Wade

Today marks the official launch of LOLA. ARTISTS, a new independent live music agency founded by UK agent Jamie Wade.  LOLA.ARTISTS will introduce a new agency model rooted in trust, creativity, and long-term vision. Dedicated to representing artists across live touring,...more

09 Oct 2025 | Press release

Kid Harpoon announced as the first ever ‘Producer in Residence’ at Abbey Road Studios

Grammy & BRIT award winning producer, songwriter, and musician Kid Harpoon announced as the first ever ‘Producer in Residence’ at Abbey Road Studios ABBEY ROAD’S ANNUAL AMPLIFY PROGRAMME EXPANDS TO MANCHESTER FOR THE FIRST TIME THIS NOVEMBER   Today, (Thursday 9 October) GRAMMY...more

09 Oct 2025 | Press release

Warner Chappell Music signs global publishing deal with Sam Hales

Today, Warner Chappell Music is proud to announce the signing of a global publishing deal with one of Australia’s most acclaimed songwriters, Sam Hales. The agreement will encompass Sam’s entire catalogue and future works.   Dan Rosen, President of Warner Music Australasia...more

09 Oct 2025 | Press release

BMG and Spotify sign new US direct licensing agreement

Spotify and global music company BMG have entered into a direct, multiyear US publishing licensing agreement designed to deliver greater value to songwriters and their teams. This agreement reflects BMG and Spotify’s shared interest in building a direct relationship that ensures songwriters...more

09 Oct 2025 | Press release

The Live Trust appoints Antonia Lines as Senior Programmes Manager

LIVE (Live music Industry Venues & Entertainment), which represents 15 live music industry organisations, has announced the appointment of Antonia Lines to the position of Senior Programmes Manager, LIVE Trust.They will be based in London and will report to Jon...more

09 Oct 2025 | Press release

EcoRecord Marks New Era of Sustainable LP Production, Enabled by Sonopress Innovation and Material Support from Indorama Ventures

Sonopress, a global leader in media manufacturing and entertainment services, has started the production of EcoRecord® — the world’s first long-playing (LP) record made from recyclable PET — for the US market, marking a major advance in sustainable music production....more

09 Oct 2025 | Press release

Isabel Garvey to leave WMG

Extracts from Isabel Garvey's note to all UK WMG employees Hi everyone,I have some personal news to share with you today.  I've decided...to step down from my role and leave the company at the end of December. I'm excited by the prospect...more

08 Oct 2025 | Press release

AI-generated music TV presenters coming to TV in broadcasting revolution

  AI-generated TV presenters will host ROXi music TV channel   Launching today on Sky Q, Sky Stream and Sky Glass in the UK and Ireland Launching today on NEXTGEN TV in the US, including Sinclair and Gray markets   FastStream Interactive announces the introduction of...more

15 Oct 2025

  • How far should cultural boycotts go? (see Features)

  • How Subvert is building a co-op owned Bandcamp alternative (see Digital)

14 Oct 2025

  • Lucian Grainge outlines UMG’s strategy for generative AI partnerships and product development (see News)

  • The future of music streaming: Change or be changed (see Comment)

13 Oct 2025

  • Sam Altman: the man who stole the rights from copyright. If he’s the future, can we go backwards? (see Features)

10 Oct 2025

  • Warner Music Group CEO Robert Kyncl discusses the company's “tremendous catalogue” (see Features)

  • There’s a £1 idea that could save small music venues. Is Live Nation holding it back? (see Features)

  • Breaking down the arguments around VMG’s Downtown Music acquisition (see Analysis)

09 Oct 2025

  • Vevo report shows how fandom turns passion into impact and purchasing power (see Reports)

08 Oct 2025

  • The music industry must plan for the day when AI music-generation tools produce humanlike music in bulk (see Features)

07 Oct 2025

  • Price cap on ticket resales set to be introduced (see News)

06 Oct 2025

  • Raye and Sony’s Jon Platt speak out for songwriters at Ivors Academy Honours Ceremony (see News)

03 Oct 2025

  • Does Daniel Ek deserve to be the richest ever man in music? (see Comment)

  • Independent music community publishes '100 Voices' on why Universal’s acquisition of Downtown should be blocked (see News)

02 Oct 2025

  • Universal and Warner said to be close to landmark AI licensing deals (see News)