How AI and technology are shaping the future of music publishing

How AI and technology are shaping the future of music publishing

Insights from Berlin’s New Visions panel

At the New Visions for Music & Sound conference in Berlin on 6th September, I had the privilege of moderating a panel that explored the cutting edge of music publishing. Our session, New Visions for Music Publishing, brought together an outstanding group of industry experts: Lucie Caswell (Songtradr, Bandcamp, StealthWrks), Silvia Montello (Voicebox Consulting), Ralph Boege (Paradise Entertainment), and Roman Gebhardt (Cyanite). We engaged in insightful conversation about how technology, particularly AI, is reshaping the future of music publishing.

If you missed the panel, you can watch it here: (scroll down to 2nd stream. Our panel starts 2:25:55 // ends 3:26:08)

1. Intelligent technology and AI
A key focus of the discussion was how AI and intelligent technology are driving significant changes in music publishing. From automating rights management to improving music tagging, these innovations are streamlining traditionally complex processes. The panellists highlighted how AI is boosting both efficiency and accuracy, bringing clear benefits to creators and publishers alike.
 
2. Simplifying the ecosystem for creators
We also explored how technology is transforming the music publishing ecosystem for creators. Managing rights and distribution can be a real headache, but with the right tools, these processes become much more accessible. A recurring theme here was metadata – the unsung hero of music publishing. When handled correctly, it brings greater transparency and makes the entire system easier to navigate for everyone involved.
 
3. Improving metadata management
Speaking of metadata, our conversation made clear that it’s the backbone of accurate royalty collection, content tracking, and attribution. We tackled the challenges associated with maintaining metadata accuracy and discussed how technology is helping to close these gaps. The impact? Better revenue collection and more reliable rights management.
 
4. Enhancing transparency and revenue collection
Another key takeaway was how technology improves music publishing transparency, particularly revenue collection and rights management. AI is helping to level the playing field for artists of all sizes, making it easier for everyone to understand how revenues are generated and distributed. This means more fairness and less mystery when it comes to getting paid.
 
5. A positive, forward-looking approach
Throughout the panel, we maintained a positive and future-focused outlook. Technological advancements create new opportunities for publishers, creators, and the wider industry. The message was clear: staying adaptable and ahead of the curve will ensure that the industry can fully embrace the benefits of these innovations.