Spotify and NMPA set direct deal for US video rights
Spotify has partnered with the National Music Publishers Association to create an opt-in portal allowing independent publishers to secure direct licensing agreements for expanded audiovisual rights across the United States. The arrangement will generate increased royalty payments for songwriters and independent publishers while granting Spotify additional capabilities to develop video features that strengthen connections between artists and audiences.
The portal opened for enrollment through mid-December, following similar direct licensing agreements Spotify completed earlier this year with Universal Music Group, Sony Music and Warner Music Group that included publishing components for American markets. The framework positions Spotify to potentially introduce music videos to its platform within the United States after launching the feature across 96 international markets.
The agreement leaves unresolved the continuing dispute over Spotify’s bundling of music and audiobook services, which enabled the company to reduce mechanical royalty payments under current copyright regulations. That controversy remains subject to ongoing litigation and regulatory review.
