In response to the challenges posed by artificial intelligence reshaping the music industry landscape, a coalition of record labels and artist organizations is urging leading streaming platforms to implement specific labeling for AI-generated tracks.
The coalition has stated plans to collaborate with platforms such as Spotify and Apple Music to introduce a new tag on music track pages, indicating whether artificial intelligence was used in the creation process. This label would be voluntarily provided by the artists, record labels, and distributors involved.
Led by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) and the International Federation of the Phonographic Industry (IFPI), the proposal outlines a two-tier labeling system for AI music.
The first category is for tracks that are fully AI-generated, meaning music created entirely from text prompts or where the primary vocals and core instrumental parts are AI-generated.
The second category is an AI-assisted label, intended for works primarily created by humans but which utilized AI in certain aspects of the production.
This AI labeling system is designed to function similarly to existing explicit content warnings already present on streaming services. For now, the proposed rules do not cover the use of AI in lyrics, composition, music videos, or album artwork.
While some artists have embraced AI as a creative tool, viewing it as analogous to using a synthesizer for beats or arrangement, many others harbor significant concerns. These worries include the unauthorized use of their music to train AI models and the potential for a flood of AI-generated content to crowd out human-created original music. Streaming platforms themselves are actively working to filter out large volumes of low-quality, mass-produced AI music.
Mitch Glazier, CEO of the RIAA, noted that many music fans are not opposed to AI-generated music, but they have a right to know whether the work they are listening to was created by a human being.
"However, creativity should have room to breathe, and artists who wish to use AI should have the freedom to use that technology," Glazier stated. "Transparent labeling is the best solution that balances both sides."
The Digital Media Association (DiMA), which represents streaming companies including Spotify and Apple, indicated it is reviewing the labeling proposal and supports the inclusion of more detailed and accurate AI-related metadata with tracks.
"Information is most valuable when it is complete and flows seamlessly from creator to listener," said DiMA CEO Graham Davies. "Our member platforms rely on industry partners to help make this a reality."
Other organizations supporting the initiative include the American Association of Independent Music, The Recording Academy (Grammys), the Screen Actors Guild‐American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA), and the Human Artistry Campaign.
In related developments, Spotify has already introduced a feature allowing the crediting of AI involvement in a song's production credits, while Apple Music has launched a "transparency label" that enables labels and distributors to note the use of AI in areas like album artwork, composition, recording, or music videos when uploading new content.
Comments