Deezer has launched Remix Lab in France, a tool that lets users alter tracks without using artificial intelligence.
The feature is currently accessible only within the Deezer Club. It allows fans to apply effects and transformations directly in the app.
How the tool works
Remix Lab operates through contests found in the Deezer Club or on an artist’s profile page. Participants can adjust tempo, pitch, or add reverb to existing songs.
Finished remixes stream immediately and can be added to playlists. They remain exclusive to the Deezer platform.
Artist compensation and rights
Deezer states that every stream generated by a remix counts toward the original work. The company claims artists receive explicit agreement to participate and are paid according to standard rights owed to them.
Winners of the initial phase receive two tickets to a Deezer Purple Door event in September and merchandise from the artist whose track they remixed.
Deezer also plans to feature all winning remixes in a dedicated playlist.
Comparison with competitors
Pierre Trochu, Head of Product at Deezer, says the feature prioritises simplicity. Users can apply basic effects like speed changes or more complex genre shifts with a few clicks.
Alexis Lanternier, CEO of Deezer, notes the tool allows fans to participate in the creative process. He says this deepens the connection listeners have with their favourite music.
The service distinguishes itself from Spotify’s recent remix tool. While Spotify uses generative AI technology for its remixes, Deezer relies on manual adjustments by the user.
Deezer claims to be the first streaming platform to offer a remix feature with full rights compliance and direct artist agreement.
What it means
This move positions Deezer against the trend of automated music generation. By keeping the process manual, the platform avoids the ethical debates surrounding AI-generated content. Fans retain control over the creative output while the service ensures the original creators still earn from the activity.
