Music Industry Power Shift: Top Lawyer Cliff Fluet on AI, Independence, and Radiohead's Lessons at ADE 2026

At Amsterdam Dance Event 2026, music lawyer and analyst Cliff Fluet delivered a sharp analysis of the evolving power dynamics in the music business. Fluet, a partner at Lewis Silkin and a recognized voice on music and technology, argued that control is moving away from traditional gatekeepers toward artists, tech platforms, and new intermediaries. He highlighted how artificial intelligence is reshaping creation, rights management, and revenue streams, forcing the industry to rethink its models. Fluet also pointed to Radiohead's career as a blueprint for artist independence and direct fan relationships, noting their early experiments with pay-what-you-want releases and self-distribution. His comments come as labels, publishers, and startups compete to define the next era of music monetization. The session underscored a central tension: the industry's need for scale versus artists' desire for autonomy. For professionals and fans alike, Fluet's takeaway is clear—those who adapt to AI and respect artist independence will lead, while those clinging to old hierarchies risk being left behind.