Wednesday, April 3, 2024

Artists Sign An Open Letter Against Unethical AI In Music


Over 200 musical artists have united in a powerful open letter, voicing their concerns about the unethical use of artificial intelligence (AI) in music. Spearheaded by the Artist Rights Alliance, this artist-led non-profit organization is calling for action against harmful practices by tech platforms that infringe upon and devalue the rights of human creators.

The Tennessean reports the letter specifically addresses AI developers, technology companies, platforms, and digital music services, urging them to cease using AI in ways that undermine artists’ rights. Some notable supporters of this initiative include:

  • Billie Eilish
  • Nicki Minaj
  • Katy Perry
  • Camila Cabello
  • Jon Bon Jovi
  • Darius Rucker
  • Elvis Costello
  • Jason Isbell
  • Marcus King
  • Rosanne Cash
  • Sheryl Crow
  • Miranda Lambert

The concern arises from the rise of deepfakes and voice cloning, which have become increasingly prevalent in the music industry. Some artists, like Luke Bryan, have even struggled to differentiate between an AI-generated track and their own work. Additionally, unauthorized AI-generated copies dilute royalty obligations, impacting artists’ livelihoods.


While the letter acknowledges the potential of AI to enhance creativity, it emphasizes responsible usage. The artists assert that AI should not sabotage creativity or replace human artistry. They call upon digital music platforms and services to pledge that they will not develop or deploy AI music technology that harms artists or denies them fair compensation.

Jen Jacobsen, the executive director of the Artist Rights Alliance, highlights the challenges faced by working musicians in the streaming world. She states, “The unethical use of generative AI to replace human artists will devalue the entire music ecosystem—for artists and fans alike.”

In a groundbreaking move, Tennessee recently signed the ELVIS Act, which adds voice protections to personal privacy laws, making it the first state to do so. Other states and Congress are also discussing similar legislation

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