ElevenLabs, the AI audio-generation leader, has made a bold move into the music generation space. The company launched a new AI-powered music tool on August 5, 2025, claiming that the output is now cleared for commercial use. This expansion marks a significant step beyond ElevenLabs’ original focus on AI-driven text-to-speech products, including conversational bots and speech translation.
AI Music Generation: A New Frontier for ElevenLabs
The AI music generator is designed to create fully composed tracks, and samples have already been shared. One notable example features a synthetic voice rapping about overcoming challenges and making it big, clearly inspired by hip-hop icons like Dr. Dre, N.W.A., and Kendrick Lamar. The uncanny resemblance to artists with authentic lived experiences raises important questions about the source material and ethics surrounding AI-generated music.
Navigating Legal Challenges in the Music Industry
Despite the excitement, the AI music space has seen legal challenges. Last year, Suno and Udio faced lawsuits from the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA), alleging they trained their models using copyrighted music. These companies are now negotiating licensing agreements with major record labels to address these issues.
Strategic Partnerships to Secure Licensing
ElevenLabs is moving ahead with proactive partnerships to ensure the legitimacy of its music generation. The company has secured deals with Merlin Network and Kobalt Music Group, both of which represent independent musicians. Artists like Adele, Nirvana, Mitski, Beck, and Childish Gambino are among those affiliated with these platforms, although it remains unclear if their music has been included in ElevenLabs’ training data.
The Future of AI Music in the Industry
The launch of ElevenLabs’ AI music generator opens up possibilities for startups, independent creators, and established brands looking for affordable, scalable music solutions. As the AI industry continues to evolve, ElevenLabs aims to capitalize on the freedom and flexibility its open-source tools offer, positioning itself as a potential disruptor in the music tech space.
Conclusion
While ElevenLabs may not yet rival the top players in AI music, its affordable and commercially-licensed AI tools present a promising alternative. With partnerships and innovative solutions, ElevenLabs is setting the stage for a new era in music creation, where AI-generated sounds can power both independent artists and corporate giants alike.
