Universal Music Group

Reports reveal that Google and Universal Music Group are in talks to license artists' vocalizations and melodies to create AI-generated music. This intriguing collaboration aims to explore the concept of a legal tool that enables fans to utilize AI for music creation while ensuring proper compensation to copyright holders. Although still in the early stages of conversation, the details regarding a potential launch are yet to be finalized. This year I witnessed the rapid viral spread of numerous AI-generated tracks. Among them, the standout hit "Heart On My Sleeve" garnered immense attention as it emulated the distinctive styles of Drake and The Weeknd. Before its removal, the song garnered an impressive 600,000 streams on Spotify. In response, Universal Music Group released a statement addressing the matter. The report emphasized the critical issue of training generative AI using artists' copyrighted music, which violates existing agreements and copyright laws. Additionally, it highlighted the prevalence of infringing content produced through generative AI on DSPs (digital streaming platforms). The label's spokesperson raised a significant question regarding the stance of stakeholders within the music industry. The choice is between supporting artists, fans, and genuine human creative expression or condoning deep fakes, deception, and the denial of rightful compensation for artists. The spokesperson expressed optimism regarding the cooperation of platform partners in addressing these concerns and acknowledged their pivotal role in finding solutions. Initially, Universal Music Group urged streaming services to exercise greater vigilance in identifying and removing AI-generated tracks. The label asserted its moral and commercial duty to safeguard artists' music against unauthorized use and to prevent platforms from hosting content that infringes upon creators' rights. The statement underscored the anticipation that platform partners share the commitment to control their services from facilitating actions that harm artists. Switching gears within the music industry, Tory Lanez has recently received a prison sentence of 10 years following his involvement in the shooting incident concerning Megan Thee Stallion.

To bolster revenue and mitigate losses, Spotify has officially announced a price increase for its premium-paying subscriber base. Starting immediately, the new monthly cost for U.S. users will be $10.99, aligning Spotify with competitors Apple Music ($10.99 a month) and Amazon Music ($10.99 for non-Prime members, though cheaper for Prime members), raising their prices last year. This move comes shortly after YouTube Music raised its price to $10.99 monthly. Notably, the Premium Duo plan will see a $2 increase, now priced at $14.99 per month, while the Family and Student plans will rise by $1 to $16.99 and $5.99, respectively. Spotify released a statement explaining the decision: "The market landscape has continued to evolve since we launched. So that we can keep innovating, we are changing our Premium prices across several markets around the world. These updates will help us continue to deliver value to fans and artists on our platform." As of March 31, Spotify boasted 210 million global paying subscribers, marking a 15 percent year-over-year increase and 515 million monthly active users. Despite its significant user base, the company has been operating at a loss and exploring ways to cut costs. In the first quarter of 2023, CFO Paul Vogel noted a "very modest underperformance in advertising" revenue. The price hike is expected to be well-received by Spotify's major label partners, such as Universal Music Group and Warner Music Group, who benefit from increased monetization of streaming audio from their artists. In 2022, UMG, WMG, Sony Music, and Music and Entertainment Rights Licensing Independent Network accounted for 75 percent of all record-label audio streams on Spotify. It's worth mentioning that Spotify pays 70 percent of subscription and advertising fees to rightsholders. To offset losses and improve efficiency, Spotify announced plans to cut 600 employees in January and consolidated its podcast divisions by eliminating 200 jobs in June. CEO Daniel Ek stated that this initiative aimed to make the company more efficient. Additionally, Spotify unveiled a redesigned home feed in March, emphasizing video more to attract creators and podcasters. Moreover, the company ventured into artificial intelligence by introducing an "AI DJ" feature, promising personalized music selection based on users' tastes. Despite the efficiency drive leading to the end of some exclusive talent deals, such as those with Meghan Markle and Prince Harry and Barack and Michelle Obama, Spotify recently launched a new weekly podcast with Trevor Noah, which will be available on multiple audio platforms. On July 25, Spotify will reveal its second-quarter earnings, and it's worth noting that the company's stock price has doubled over the first six months of this year.

Universal Music Group is now hiring a Director of Marketing in Santa Monica, California. Are you ready to join the Universal Music Group team? They seek an experienced Director of Marketing to help us create innovative marketing campaigns and drive artist growth. At UMG, they are passionate about music and dedicated to artistry, innovation, and entrepreneurship. As a Director of Marketing, you will work directly with artists and their representatives, executive staff, and departments within UMe. You will oversee marketing strategies, collaborate with external partners, recommend solutions for creative objectives, manage budgets for projects and campaigns related to UMe activity, secure partnerships in campaigns, conceive creative marketing plans, and lead an innovative team toward success. If you have a Bachelor’s degree with five years of experience in music marketing (including catalog and frontline artists), strong knowledge of the digital marketplace for consuming music, experience in digital marketing, CRM, audience engagement & analytics, and advertising/media planning - then this position is perfect for you! They offer so many benefits here at UMG, including comprehensive medical & dental coverage; 100% coverage for out-patient mental health services; well-being reimbursements; a Lifetime Fertility Support Allowance; Student Loan Repayment Assistance; Tuition Reimbursement; 100% immediately vested 401(k) match on the first 5%; Flexible PTO; paid holidays; Summer Fridays; generous paid parental leave – oh yeah, this job has it all! Join them in crafting stories that will live forever. The salary range for this role is $65,250-$146,960. So what are you waiting for? Apply now! How to apply? Check out the casting call breakdown below to audition for a role in the upcoming production. Join Project Casting to access jobs you can apply to right now. Director, Marketing We are UMG, the Universal Music Group. We are the world’s leading music company. We are committed to artistry, innovation, and entrepreneurship in everything we do. We own and operate many businesses engaged in recorded music, music publishing, merchandising, and audiovisual content in more than 60 countries. We identify and develop recording artists and songwriters, and we produce, distribute and promote the most critically acclaimed and commercially successful music to delight and entertain fans worldwide. Universal Music Enterprises (UMe) is the centralized U.S. catalog entity for the Universal Music Group. Working closely in concert with all of the company’s record labels, UMe provides a global frontline approach to catalog management, a concentration of resources, and a greater emphasis on strategic marketing initiatives and opportunities in new and emerging technologies. How we LEAD:  Universal Music Enterprises (UMe), a division of Universal Music Group (UMG), is seeking a Marketing Director in the company’s Santa Monica, CA location. UMe is the centralized catalog marketing division for UMG, spearheading marketing, brand partnerships, sales, licensing, and ancillary exploitation for the music catalog. This position is a visible and prominent role within and without the organization. This role will be responsible for working directly with Universal artists and their representatives, executive staff, and departments within UMe. They will recommend, assess, and oversee marketing strategies and their impact on business and creative objectives. They will also work with external partners and be responsible for securing their support and campaign participation. How you’ll CREATE: Work closely with artists and their representatives to define marketing objectives and oversee campaign execution. Be a creative visionary, driving progressive marketing campaigns and inspiring innovation across the team. Collaborate with and drive marketing efforts from other teams at UMe including audience growth, publicity, brand partnerships, commercial, and radio Manage the conception, communication and execution of marketing plans and other marketing strategies. Build, maintain and assess external marketing partnerships. Account for project and campaign marketing budgets relating to UMe activity. Bring your VIBE: Bachelor’s preferred Five years of experience in music marketing Experience working with catalog and frontline artists. Strong knowledge of the digital marketplace for music consumption. Extensive experience in digital marketing, CRM, audience engagement, and analytics. Advertising/media planning experience. Proven ability to build and manage marketing partnerships. Excellent presentation and analytical skills. Excellent negotiation and communication skills. Needs to be a creative but strategic marketer who is driven by innovation. Passionate music fan. Proven strong leadership skills. Ability to handle multiple projects and operate effectively in a high-pressure environment.   Perks Playlist: Be part of an entrepreneurial, global organization that values authenticity, drive, creativity, relationships, and a competitive spirit Comprehensive medical, dental, vision, and FSA options, as well as: 100% coverage for out-patient mental health services Wellbeing reimbursements for fitness classes, spa treatments, meal services, travel, and so much more (up to $720/year) A lifetime fertility support allowance of $30,000 to plan participants Student Loan Repayment Assistance and Tuition Reimbursement 100% immediately vested 401(k) match on the first 5% of your contribution on eligible compensation Variety of ways to prioritize much-needed time away from work including: Flexible Paid Time Off (PTO) for exempt employees 3-weeks PTO for non-exempt employees 2-weeks paid Winter Break 10 Paid Holidays (including Juneteenth and Wellbeing Day) Summer Fridays (between Memorial Day and Labor Day) Generous paid parental leave for every type of parent Disclaimer: This job description only provides an overview of job responsibilities subject to change. All UMG employees are required to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 or provide proof of a negative PCR or Antigen test before entering any Company offices unless they have been approved for an exemption or unless prohibited by applicable law.  Universal Music Group is an Equal Opportunity Employer We are an E-Verify employer. For more information, please click on the following links. E-Verify Participation Poster: English / Spanish E-Verify Right to Work Poster: English | Spanish Job Category: Marketing, Streaming & Digital Media Salary Range: $65,250- $146,960 The actual base salary offered depends on a variety of factors, which may include, as applicable, the qualifications of the individual applicant for the position, years of relevant experience, specific and unique skills, level of education attained, certifications or other professional licenses held, and the location in which the applicant lives and from which they will be performing the job. All candidates are encouraged to apply. Interested? Apply Now  You deserve to get discovered. Find more jobs, networking opportunities, and resources on Project Casting.

Universal Music Group is now hiring Associate Creative Directors in New York City, New York. Are You Ready for the Opportunity of a Lifetime? At Universal Music Group (UMG), they understand the power of music. They provide a platform that allows artists to create and share their artistry with the world. As part of its commitment to artistry, innovation, and entrepreneurship, UMG operates in more than 60 countries around the globe. Now, UMG is looking for an Associate Creative Director. If you have expertise in digital and social advertising formats, top-notch design skills, and experience collaborating directly with talent and creators on campaigns, this job is done for you. Keep reading to find out what's in it for you! As an Associate Creative Director at UMG, here are some of the things you'll do: Work with recording artists from Republic Records to develop creative branding strategies Oversee artwork, artist imaging, packaging, and promotion materials Guide visual branding direction across multiple platforms Recruit outside creatives such as animators, video directors, and editors Collaborate internally with marketing teams to build compelling single and album projects Contribute to Republic Records' branding across advertising events, product, and artwork Direct specifics for each artist/project to key business departments So why should you apply? In addition to working with some of the greatest minds in music today while making sure artists succeed in telling their stories through visuals, here's what else they offer: Comprehensive health care benefits include 100% coverage for outpatient mental health services and well-being reimbursements up to $720/year. A lifetime fertility support allowance of $30K. Student loan repayment assistance and tuition reimbursement. 100% immediately vested 401(k) match on the first 5% contribution on eligible compensation. Flexible paid time off includes three weeks PTO for nonexempt employees, two weeks paid winter break, and additional perks (like Summer Fridays). Ready to reach new heights in your career? Join them at UMG, where your passion will be rewarded! How to apply? Check out the casting call breakdown below to audition for a role in the upcoming production. Join Project Casting to access jobs you can apply to right now. Associate Creative Director We are UMG, the Universal Music Group. We are the world’s leading music company. We are committed to artistry, innovation, and entrepreneurship in everything we do. We own and operate many businesses engaged in recorded music, music publishing, merchandising, and audiovisual content in more than 60 countries. We identify and develop recording artists and songwriters, and we produce, distribute and promote the most critically acclaimed and commercially successful music to delight and entertain fans worldwide. A division of Universal Music Group, the world’s leading music company, Republic Records is home to an all-star roster of multi-platinum, award-winning legends and superstar artists such as Ariana Grande, Black Thought, Drake, Florence + the Machine, Greta Van Fleet, Hailee Steinfeld, Jack Johnson, James Blake, James Bay, Jessie J, John Mellencamp, Jonas Brothers, Julia Michaels, Kid Cudi, Lil Wayne, Lorde, Metro Boomin, NAV, Nicki Minaj, Of Monsters and Men, Pearl Jam, Post Malone, Seth MacFarlane, Stevie Wonder, Taylor Swift, The Weeknd and more. Founded by brothers and chief executives Monte and Avery Lipman, it comprises innovative business ventures, including American Recordings, Boominati Worldwide, Brushfire, Casablanca Records, Cash Money, Lava Records, XO, and Young Money, among others. Republic also maintains a long-standing strategic alliance with Universal Music Latin Entertainment (J Balvin and Karol G). How we LEAD: Republic Records is partnered with some of our generation's greatest creative minds and storytellers, praised for their music and marked by inspiring and meticulously planned visual eras. Today, the predominant methods of music discovery are visual. In order to continue to build upon the legacy Republic is known for, we must be able to cater to music fans of today and build an infrastructure to continue to support our artists’ creative needs. We are looking for individuals to usher this philosophy into the core of campaigns and the heart of the label. How you’ll CREATE: Work with artists on the Republic Records roster to develop a holistic creative and brand strategy for campaigns. Provide visual branding direction across the artwork, artist imaging, packaging, music content, marketing assets, promotion materials, and other visual content. Maintain, recruit, and develop outside freelance creative talent, including visual artists, graphic designers, photographers, animators, video directors, editors, etc., to incorporate into the artist ecosystem. Collaborate with marketing and digital departments to create compelling artist single and album rollout strategies and visual campaigns. Work collaboratively internally and externally to bring artist brand and music campaign narratives to life. Develop and manage the creative process from concept to completion. Ensure timely delivery of assets and associated deadlines. Contribute to the direction of the Republic Brand across Advertising, Events, Products, and Artwork. Communicate / Direct imaging and branding specifics for each artist/project to key business departments. Commission and negotiate fees for photo shoots, including photographers, stylists, make-up artists, prop stylists, and hair stylists. Provide art direction to internal and freelance creative talent such as designers and photographers. Design compelling pitch decks for label and artist pitches. Bring your VIBE: Proficient in Digital, Social, AV, and Print advertising formats and top-of-class design benchmarks. Experience working directly with talent and creators to collaborate on campaigns. Experience managing high-volume creative and multiple campaign types in parallel. Proficiency in Adobe Creative Cloud applications, in particular Photoshop and InDesign. Perks Playlist: Be part of an entrepreneurial, global organization that values authenticity, drive, creativity, relationships, and a competitive spirit Comprehensive medical, dental, vision, and FSA options, as well as: 100% coverage for out-patient mental health services Wellbeing reimbursements for fitness classes, spa treatments, meal services, travel, and so much more (up to $720/year) A lifetime fertility support allowance of $30,000 to plan participants Student Loan Repayment Assistance and Tuition Reimbursement 100% immediately vested 401(k) match on the first 5% of your contribution on eligible compensation Variety of ways to prioritize much-needed time away from work, including: Flexible Paid Time Off (PTO) for exempt employees 3-weeks PTO for non-exempt employees 2-weeks paid Winter Break 10 Paid Holidays (including Juneteenth and Wellbeing Day) Summer Fridays (between Memorial Day and Labor Day) Generous paid parental leave for every type of parent     Disclaimer: This job description only provides an overview of job responsibilities subject to change. All UMG employees are required to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 or provide proof of a negative PCR or Antigen test before entering any Company offices unless they have been approved for an exemption or unless prohibited by applicable law. Universal Music Group is an Equal Opportunity Employer We are an E-Verify employer. For more information, please click on the following links. E-Verify Participation Poster: English / Spanish E-Verify Right to Work Poster: English | Spanish Interested? Apply Now  You deserve to get discovered. Find more jobs, networking opportunities, and resources on Project Casting.