Spotify is working on mixing tools that would allow users to remix songs on the streaming service, according to screenshots captured by a tech veteran and app researcher. Chris Messina. While music fans use software like Adobe Audition or Ableton Live to create mixes of their favorite songs, the new capabilities would allow people to do so directly in Spotify. Screenshots indicate that the mixing tools would be available under a new “Music Pro” premium subscription tier. The news was first reported by The Wall Street Journal, whose sources say that discussions about the tools are early and that licensing agreements have not yet been worked out.
A Spotify spokesperson told TechCrunch that the company is constantly exploring ideas to improve its product offerings and deliver value to its users, but will not comment on speculation about new features.
In screenshots shared with TechCrunch, the app's code references different mixing tools that would allow users to “flex their DJ skills with different transition styles to create the ultimate mix.”
The tools would also allow users to “set the tempo range for their mix and “set the mood for their mix” by filtering by “genres, moods, activities and more.” The code suggests that users could create remixes of songs that fit a given scenario. In theory, you could create an upbeat, up-tempo version of a slower song to create a remix and listen to while you work out.
Image credits: Chris Messina
Image credits: Chris Messina
The code suggests that users could take advantage of a mixing tool that “quickly mixes into the next track to maintain energy.” Another tool “maximizes layering for an immersive, layered track mix,” while another “instantly switches from one track to another for high impact.”
Additionally, users can “insert” and “edit” transitions between tracks.” Users can also decrease or increase BMP (beats per minute) and “danceability.”
Image credits: Chris Messina
It seems that the mixing tools would not be aimed only at users who already have experience mixing songs. The code refers to one tool that “automatically reorders your mix by sequencing tracks with a similar key, tempo, and style,” while another allows users to “choose how to order your mix, or select automatic order so Spotify will sequence it by you”. “These lines of code suggest that Spotify would help users create their perfect mix, even if it's their first time, with the help of automated tools.
Image credits: Chris Messina
Image credits: Chris Messina
While traditional user-created remixes uploaded to streaming or social media platforms do not generate income for artists, Spotify's remixing capabilities would likely allow musicians to make money from remixes linked to their original tracks. Since fan-made remixes are often modified to the point that they are not flagged for copyright violations, Spotify is full of unofficial remixes with millions of streams. While Spotify's mixing tools can't completely fix this issue, they could help remedy it to some extent.
It's no surprise that Spotify is developing mixing tools, especially since sped-up songs and mashups are having a moment thanks to TikTok. According to TikTok 2023 end of year reportThe most popular The songs on the app were sped-up remixes of songs.
The trend of up-tempo songs has become so popular that artists are looking to capitalize on it. For example, after an acceleration made by a fan When a remix of SZA's song “Kill Bill” was being used on TikTok, she released an official sped-up version of the song. Other artists like Lana Del Ray and The Cab have also released official sped up versions of their songs so that people listen to their official tracks, rather than fan-made versions.
As with any other feature in development, it is unknown if and when Spotify plans to release the mixing tools.
