Spotify is probably the worst thing that has happened to musicians.” Despite new agreements between the world’s largest music label and one of the largest providers of music streaming services, the Icelandic artist’s words continue to ring true.

The new publishing agreement establishes a direct license between Spotify and Universal Music Publishing Group.

Spotify and Universal Music Group (UMG) have signed a new multi-year agreement for recorded music and music publishing. The partnership, which is focused on growth and innovation, will help "the advancement of artists' and songwriters' success."

Spotify and Universal Music Group have struck a new multi-year agreement focused on driving subscriber growth and advancing music monetization.

Universal Music Group and Spotify announced multi-year deals to advance streaming innovation, benefit artists, songwriters, and consumers.

The deal establishes a direct license between the companies across Spotify’s current product portfolio in the U.S. and beyond.

Universal Music Group and Spotify on Sunday announced a huge multi-year direct deal that will affect both recording and publishing royalty rates.