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Oct 31, 2025
This Halloween-themed episode dives into UMG's impressive 10% growth, with international markets leading the way. The discussion shifts to UMG’s new AI strategy and their deals with YouTube, underscoring the artist protections being implemented. Meanwhile, tensions rise as Udio users express outrage over disabled downloads. Sirius XM's evolving landscape is examined, revealing their rising guidance despite audience declines. And don’t miss the hauntingly beautiful song of the week, 'The Barge of Sorrow' by JP Olsen!
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UMG Growth Moves Beyond U.S. Streaming
- Universal Music Group grew ~10% in Q3 and is shifting growth to international markets as U.S. streaming slows.
- UMG leverages superstar artists and K-pop to sustain expansion while diversifying revenue sources.
UMG Asserts AI Guardrails
- UMG secured a YouTube licensing deal and a settlement with Udio to assert creator protections in AI.
- The deals signal UMG using its clout to set moral and legal guardrails for human creators in the AI era.
Udio Users Revolt Over Disabled Downloads
- Some Udio users revolted publicly after downloads were disabled following the settlement with UMG.
- The product's survival remains uncertain due to user backlash and imposed limitations from the deal.