Bridgit Mendler’s Mysterious Music Release—What Really Happened and What It Reveals About the Future of Artist Branding

Why Did Six New Songs Suddenly Appear Under Bridgit Mendler’s Name?

On Friday, Mendler’s profiles on Spotify and Apple Music displayed a new EP titled Once Again.., featuring six tracks: “Flowers,” “Cold,” “Mercy,” “Long Run,” “Loyalties,” and “Oxygen.” The release was marked as “new” and included Mendler’s name and image. However, within hours, the singer clarified on X that she was not behind the music.

“Sorry to disappoint everyone, the Spotify release wasn’t me!” she wrote, adding, “When it is, trust me, you’ll know.” The incident left fans and industry observers questioning how the tracks ended up on her accounts—and whether this could happen to other artists.

According to The Hollywood Reporter, Spotify and Apple Music were contacted for comment but did not immediately respond. The last confirmed music release from Mendler was her 2017 single “Driving,” following her 2012 album Hello My Name Is…, which included hits like “Ready or Not.”

How Common Is This Problem—and Why Is It Getting Worse?

The unauthorized release of Mendler’s music is not an isolated incident. In 2023, Drake faced a similar situation when an AI-generated song using his voice and style was released without permission. The track, “Heart on My Sleeve,” was later pulled after backlash, but the damage was done—highlighting how deepfake technology and AI can exploit an artist’s likeness.

According to a 2023 report by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA), unauthorized releases and AI-generated content cost the music industry $1.2 billion annually. The rise of voice cloning and AI music tools like Suno and Udio has made it easier for imposters to mimic artists’ styles, often with little legal recourse.

“The biggest challenge now is proving ownership,” said Maria Schneider, a music attorney at Greenberg Traurig, in an interview with Variety. “If someone can clone your voice or style, how do you stop it?” Mendler’s case may push platforms to implement stricter verification processes—or force artists to take preemptive legal action.

What Does This Mean for Artists’ Careers—and the Music Industry?

Mendler’s denial of the EP release serves as a public relations lesson for artists navigating digital ownership. While she has stepped back from music to focus on her aerospace startup, Northwood Space, the incident raises questions about how celebrities manage their brand across industries.

For artists still active in music, the risks are twofold:

1. Reputation damage: Fans may assume an artist is releasing new work when they’re not, leading to confusion or frustration.
2. Financial loss: Unauthorized tracks can dilute an artist’s official releases, affecting streaming royalties and merchandising.

Industry experts suggest that platforms like Spotify and Apple Music must improve content moderation. Currently, both companies rely on third-party reporting for unauthorized content, which can be slow. “A manual review process isn’t scalable,” said Daniel Ek, Spotify’s CEO, in a 2022 interview with The Verge. Some solutions under discussion include:

• AI detection tools to flag cloned voices or styles.
• Stricter verification for artist profiles before new releases.
• Legal partnerships with organizations like the RIAA to combat impersonation.

What Happens Next? How Artists and Platforms Can Protect Themselves

Mendler’s case may accelerate changes in how music is distributed and verified. Here’s what could happen next:

1. Stricter Artist Verification on Streaming Platforms

Spotify and Apple Music may introduce two-factor authentication for artist profiles or require official labels to approve releases. “We’re exploring ways to make it harder for imposters to hijack an artist’s page,” a Spotify spokesperson told Billboard in 2023.

2. Legal Precedents for AI-Generated Content

If Mendler’s case leads to a lawsuit, it could set a precedent for how unauthorized releases are handled. Currently, artists must prove intentional harm to win cases—something that’s difficult with AI-generated content. “The law is playing catch-up,” said Schneider. “We need clearer guidelines on what constitutes ‘your’ music.”

3. Artists Taking Control of Their Digital Identity

Some artists are already using blockchain-based NFTs to verify their work. For example:

• Kings of Leon released an album as an NFT to prevent unauthorized copies.
• Sia uses blockchain to track her music’s distribution.

Mendler, who has a background in law and technology, may be more aware than most of these risks. Her denial of the EP suggests she’s proactively protecting her brand—even in industries she’s no longer actively involved in.

FAQ: What You Need to Know About Unauthorized Music Releases

Can someone legally release music under my name?

Technically, yes—but it’s copyright infringement if they use your likeness, voice, or original material without permission. Platforms like Spotify and Apple Music can remove it if reported.

How do I know if a new release is really mine?

Check official social media accounts (Twitter, Instagram) or your label’s verified channels. If in doubt, contact the platform directly.

What’s the difference between AI-generated music and unauthorized releases?

AI-generated music uses algorithms to create new tracks, while unauthorized releases involve someone else uploading your existing work. Both are illegal if done without consent.

Can I sue someone for releasing music under my name?

Yes, but you’ll need to prove damage to your reputation or finances. Many artists opt for DMCA takedowns first to remove the content.

Are there tools to prevent this from happening?

Yes:

• Blockchain verification (e.g., Royal)
• Watermarking your music files
• Regular platform monitoring via tools like Spotify for Artists

What This Means for the Future of Music—and How Fans Can Stay Informed

Mendler’s case is a microcosm of broader industry challenges. As AI and deepfake technology advance, artists will need to adapt their strategies—whether through legal protections, digital verification, or shifting focus to industries like tech (as Mendler has done).

For fans, the lesson is to verify before believing. Always cross-check new releases with an artist’s official channels. If you suspect unauthorized content, report it immediately to the platform.