Merlin and Singa Ink Partnership to Bring Thousands of Original Recordings to Karaoke

London and Helsinki (December 2, 2025) — Merlin, the digital music licensing partner for the world’s leading independent labels and distributors, has partnered with Singa, the leading karaoke technology company, to make thousands of original master recordings available on the platform.

This historic deal marks a major leap forward in the evolution of karaoke, transforming an analog pastime into a modern, high-quality, rights-first digital experience. Through this partnership, karaoke singers at home and in Singa-powered venues worldwide are able to perform along with the original masters of songs from Merlin’s global membership.

For Merlin members and their artists, the partnership unlocks new revenue streams. For karaoke fans, it means access to more songs, greater variety, and an unmatched singing experience powered by the original master recordings, and not reproductions or soundalike versions.

“Independent artists and labels have passionate fans among karaoke singers, many of whom haven’t had the chance to perform their favorite deep cuts,” said Atte Hujanen, Co-Founder and CEO of Singa. “Now, thanks to our proprietary technology and this partnership, they can sing along to high-quality, original recordings. Merlin is helping us bring a broader and more diverse catalog to karaoke, while ensuring that more revenue goes back to the artists and songwriters who deserve it.”

“This partnership is about unlocking new opportunities for independent music and maximizing a space that has an immense impact on music discovery,” said Jeremy Sirota, CEO of Merlin. “Merlin’s mission is to empower our members to own their digital future. By working with innovative partners like Singa, we’re creating new revenue streams for our members and ensuring their artists’ work is valued properly.”

The collaboration underscores a shared commitment to innovation, transparency, and fair value for creators. As karaoke continues to evolve into a global digital entertainment category, Singa and Merlin are paving the way for a future where artists, fans, and rights holders all benefit from the joy of singing.

About Merlin

Merlin is the digital music licensing partner for the world’s leading independent labels and distributors. We’ve negotiated premium deals with Apple, Canva, Deezer, Meta, Spotify, YouTube, and 40 other innovative platforms around the world. Our global membership is from 70+ countries around the world, representing 15% of the recorded music market. Merlin operates for the benefit of its members, without investors looking for an exit, and is funded entirely by our low 1.5% admin fee. Merlin helps the world’s leading independents to own their digital business through world-class deals and white-glove support.

Merlin’s membership includes independents such as !K7, AEI Music, Armada Music Group, AudioSalad, Because, Better Noise, Domino Recording Co., Duetti, Empire, Exceleration Music, Freeme Digital, GYROstream, Hopeless Records, IDOL, Innercat Music, Kontor New Media, Lex Records, Mad Decent, Many Hats, Merge Records, MNRK Music Group, Mushroom Music, Ninja Tune, ONErpm, Polyvinyl Records, Reservoir, Secretly, Stones Throw, Sub Pop, Symphonic, V.P. Music Group, Wagram Music, Warp Records, Zebralution, and hundreds more.

Find out more at www.merlinnetwork.org 

About Singa

Singa modernizes karaoke — the last analog bastion of the entertainment industry, by offering a complete ecosystem around karaoke for both venues and consumers. Since 2015, the Finnish company has launched its karaoke streaming service in 34 countries, helping 2000 hospitality venues and 2 million registered home singers experience the new era of Singing. Singa is the first karaoke service of its kind to partner with a major record label, allowing the distribution of original master recordings for an unparalleled karaoke experience.

Singa Business helps bars and entertainment venues attract new customers, boost revenue, and create unforgettable memories for every guest. For consumers, the Singa karaoke app gives access to the largest licensed karaoke catalog today on any device. You can sing on your own, make it a party with friends, or use the finder feature to spot the nearest Singa-powered karaoke venue and hit the stage. Follow Singa on Linkedin, Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook.

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Merlin

Crystal Henderson

crystal@thepresshouse.com