#NewMusic "will give artists a new way to connect with our global community," according to the platform's global head of music operations.
Tracks from AI music company Boomy were removed, but streamers take down songs all the time, regardless of whether AI is involved.
The veteran executive is departing the streaming company after nearly two years on the job.
The platform will allow creators to tap into data that identifies their most loyal listeners — who they can then direct message through the service.
The "BRIT Billion" award makes the United Kingdom the first country in the streaming era to recognize the milestone of drawing 1 billion career streams.
Most labels and some technology companies think now is the time to raise streaming prices. But what if this is the wrong approach?
Merlin members — including independent labels and distributors — will explore "new revenue opportunities" via the platform's user-centric payment model.
Overall, the tech giant beat analyst expectations for the quarter, delivering revenue of $94.8 billion.
As part of the settlement, Spinrilla founder Jeffrey Copeland is also forbidden from operating the site or anything like it again.
Focusing on premium-only service will increase "opportunities for rightsholders," the company said in a statement
