Spotify is working on mixing tools that would allow users to remix songs on the streaming service, according to screenshots captured by tech veteran and app researcher Chris Messina. While music lovers use software like Adobe Audition or Ableton Live to create mixes of their favorite songs, the new features could allow people to do this directly in Spotify. The screenshots suggest that the mixing tools would be available as part of a new premium “Music Pro” subscription tier. The news was first reported by the Wall Street Journal, whose sources say discussions about the tools are still in their early stages and that licensing agreements have not yet been worked out.
A Spotify spokesperson told TechCrunch that the company is constantly looking for ideas to improve its product offering and add value to its users, but would not comment on speculation about new features.
In the screenshots shared with TechCrunch, the app’s code references various mixing tools that would allow users to “hone their DJ skills with different transition styles to create the ultimate mix.”
The tools also allow users to “set the tempo range for your mix and set the mood for your mix” by filtering by “genres, moods, activities, and more.” The code suggests that users could create remixes of songs that fit a specific scenario. In theory, you could create an upbeat, sped-up version of a slower song to create a remix that you can listen to while working out.
Photo credit: Chris Messina
Photo credit: Chris Messina
The code suggests that users could use a mixing tool that “quickly mixes in the next track to keep the energy going.” Another tool “maximizes overlap for a layered and immersive mix of titles,” while another “instantly switches from one title to another for high impact.”
Additionally, users could “insert” and “edit” transitions between tracks. Users can also decrease or increase the BMP (beats per minute) and “danceability.”
Photo credit: Chris Messina
It seems that the mixing tools are not only aimed at users who already have experience mixing songs. The code refers to a tool that “automatically reorders your mix by stringing together tracks with similar key, tempo and style,” while another allows users to “choose how they want to order their mix or choose the automatic order.” can have Spotify sequence it for you.” These lines of code suggest that Spotify would use automated tools to help users create their perfect mix, even if it’s their first time.
Photo credit: Chris Messina
Photo credit: Chris Messina
While traditional user-created remixes uploaded to streaming platforms or social media don’t generate revenue for artists, Spotify’s mixing capabilities would likely allow musicians to make money from remixes tied to their original tracks. Because fan-made remixes are often altered enough to avoid being flagged for copyright infringement, Spotify is filled with unofficial remixes with millions of streams. Although Spotify’s mixing tools cannot completely eliminate this problem, they could help to some extent.
It’s no surprise that Spotify is developing mixing tools, especially as accelerated songs and mashups are gaining traction thanks to TikTok. According to TikToks 2023 Annual reportThe most beloved The songs in the app were sped up remixes of songs.
The trend of sped up songs has become so popular that artists are trying to capitalize on it. For example, after a fan-made acceleration When a remix of SZA’s song “Kill Bill” was used on TikTok, she released an official, sped-up version of the song. Other artists such as Lana Del Ray and The Cab have also released official, sped-up versions of their songs to get people to listen to their official tracks rather than fan-made versions.
As with all other features in development, it is unknown if and when Spotify plans to introduce the mixing tools.