Spotify is in the process of developing mixing tools that would allow users to remix songs directly on the streaming platform, as revealed by screenshots captured by tech expert and app researcher Chris Messina. While many music enthusiasts currently rely on software like Adobe Audition or Ableton Live for song remixing, these new features would enable users to do so within Spotify itself. The screenshots suggest that these mixing tools would be accessible through a new premium subscription tier called “Music Pro.” Initial reports by The Wall Street Journal indicate that discussions surrounding these tools are in their early stages, and licensing agreements have yet to be finalized.
A spokesperson from Spotify informed TechCrunch that the company continually explores ways to enhance its product offerings and provide added value to its users. However, they declined to comment on speculations regarding new features.
According to the screenshots shared with TechCrunch, the app’s code references various mixing tools that would empower users to “showcase their DJ skills with different transition styles to craft the ultimate mix.” Additionally, these tools would allow users to adjust the tempo range and curate the vibe of their mix by filtering songs based on genres, moods, activities, and more. The code suggests that users would have the ability to create remixes tailored to specific scenarios, such as producing an energetic, accelerated version of a slower song for a workout playlist.
The code indicates that users may have access to a mixing feature that “smoothly transitions to the next track to maintain energy.” Another tool could “optimize overlap for a layered and immersive mix of tracks,” while yet another could “swiftly switch from one track to another for a powerful impact.”
Furthermore, users might have the ability to “insert” and “modify” transitions between tracks. They could also adjust the beats per minute (BPM) and “danceability” of the music.
It seems that the mixing tools aren’t exclusively designed for experienced users. The code mentions a tool that “rearranges your mix by organizing tracks with similar key, tempo, and style,” while another allows users to “customize the order of their mix or opt for automatic sequencing by Spotify.” These lines suggest that Spotify intends to assist users, even those new to mixing, in creating their ideal mix using automated features.
While traditional user-generated remixes often don’t generate revenue for artists when uploaded to streaming platforms or social media, Spotify’s mixing capabilities could potentially enable musicians to monetize remixes associated with their original tracks. Fan-made remixes frequently undergo alterations that prevent them from being flagged for copyright infringement, resulting in numerous unofficial remixes on Spotify garnering millions of streams. While Spotify’s mixing tools may not completely resolve this issue, they could offer some mitigation.
The development of mixing tools by Spotify is unsurprising, particularly given the current popularity of sped-up songs and mashups, largely fueled by platforms like TikTok. According to TikTok’s 2023 year-end report, sped-up remixes of songs were among the most popular content on the app.
The trend of sped-up songs has become so widespread that artists are capitalizing on it. For example, following the popularity of a fan-created accelerated remix of SZA’s track “Kill Bill” on TikTok, she subsequently released an official sped-up rendition of the song. Similarly, artists like Lana Del Rey and The Cab have also released official sped-up renditions of their songs to encourage listeners to engage with their official tracks rather than fan-made versions.
As with any feature under development, Spotify’s plans regarding the launch of the mixing tools remain undisclosed.
