The major labels propose rules to keep AI slop off the charts
Universal, Sony, and Warner Music propose strict chart eligibility rules requiring AI-assisted songs to be substantially human-made.
Stock photo for illustration only, not from the actual event
- Major record labels propose strict chart eligibility rules for AI music
- Songs must be substantially human-made to qualify for official charts
- AI models must be properly authorized and respect copyright laws
- Rules aim to prevent stream manipulation and chart gaming
Several major record labels, including the big three industry giants Universal Music Group, Sony Music, and Warner Music Group, have put forward a new set of proposed rules regarding chart eligibility for songs created using artificial intelligence. In short, the goal is to keep these tracks off official charts entirely unless strict conditions are met.
This new proposal goes significantly further than previous labeling initiatives introduced by organizations such as the RIAA, IFPI, and SAG-AFTRA. While those prior efforts focused on establishing standardized labels to identify AI-generated and AI-assisted music, the labels' latest proposal would bar these tracks from international charts unless they fulfill specific criteria, prominently including the requirement of being substantially human-made.
This coordinated push by major record labels highlights the music industry's intensifying battle to safeguard copyright holders and human artists against a flood of automated audio. By attempting to block AI tracks from mainstream charts, these companies are trying to protect the economic value of traditional music production.
To be eligible for the charts under the proposed framework, recordings developed with generative AI must satisfy a strict list of criteria:
- Any generative AI services used must be properly authorized and lawful.
- The tracks must not raise stream or chart manipulation concerns.
- They must comply with applicable laws, including copyright and related rights.
- Making the recordings available must not breach the terms of the AI service used.
- The use of AI must be appropriately signaled to consumers on downstream streaming platforms.
Stock photo for illustration only, not from the actual event
While the IFPI has thrown its weight behind the labels' proposal, no charting organization has yet signaled any immediate plan to adopt these rules. Furthermore, terms such as substantially human-made remain vague, and representatives for Sony Music, UMG, and Mom+Pop Music did not immediately respond to requests for clarification.
Source: The Verge
Found something wrong in this article? Report an issue with this article
Comments
Leave a Comment