TL;DR:
- Universal Music Group (UMG) advocates for Congress to pass regulations protecting artists from copyright infringement involving AI-generated content.
- UMG’s General Counsel presents three proposed laws during a Senate Judiciary Committee hearing: “Right of Publicity” law, AI-generated content labeling, and transparency of training data.
- The “Right of Publicity” law aims to safeguard artists from unauthorized use of their voice, likeness, and identity, considering recent viral AI interpretations of artists and songs.
- UMG emphasizes the importance of obtaining permission from copyright holders and highlights the need to label AI-generated content and provide transparency to copyright owners.
- UMG supports the Human Artistry Campaign and its “Core Principles for Artificial Intelligence Applications,” promoting the protection of artists’ rights and the value of human artistry and expression.
- UMG seeks to engage with leading AI music companies and early-stage AI firms to foster responsible AI opportunities.
- UMG calls for legal clarity that enhances generative AI while safeguarding artists’ rights and the creative ecosystem.
Main AI News:
Universal Music Group (UMG) is calling on Congress to enact regulations safeguarding artists against copyright violations stemming from AI-generated content. During a recent hearing of the Senate Judiciary Committee’s subcommittee on intellectual property, UMG’s General Counsel and Executive Vice President for Business and Legal Affairs, Jeffrey Harleston, outlined three pivotal laws that the label urges lawmakers to pass.
The first proposed legislation is a “Right of Publicity” law, which would shield artists from unauthorized use of their voice, likeness, or any other aspect of their identity. This measure has become increasingly crucial as AI-generated renditions of artists and songs, including those of UMG’s acclaimed talents such as The Weeknd and Drake, have gained viral popularity. These unauthorized creations can lead to consumer confusion, unfair competition, brand dilution, and reputational damage, thereby jeopardizing artists’ careers. Harleston emphasized that AI developers must obtain permission from copyright holders and stressed that misappropriating an artist’s voice is fundamentally unethical.
Furthermore, Harleston highlighted the need for labeling AI-generated content and providing transparency to copyright owners regarding the training data used in AI models. By enforcing such measures, the legislation would address concerns surrounding consumer deception, unfair trade practices, privacy infringements, and blatant violations of copyright law. UMG firmly asserts that AI-generated vocals derived from copyrighted recordings transcend mere “Right of Publicity” violations, demanding comprehensive legal protection.
In March 2023, UMG, along with prominent industry organizations like the Recording Academy, Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA), and SAG-AFTRA, joined forces under the Human Artistry Campaign. This collective aims to advocate for creators’ rights concerning AI development within the music industry. Harleston further noted that while AI holds potential in music creation, it must adhere to seven “Core Principles for Artificial Intelligence Applications” outlined by the Human Artistry Campaign. These principles emphasize the preservation of human artistry, expression, and creativity, recognizing their inherent and incomparable value.
Harleston concluded his testimony by underlining the urgency to establish legal clarity surrounding generative AI. While some solutions may not necessitate legislation, others, such as a federal “Right of Publicity” statute and mandatory transparency regarding training datasets, demand swift legislative action. UMG expressed its readiness to collaborate with Congress and industry stakeholders to devise productive and pragmatic solutions that protect creators and foster the endurance of our diverse cultural landscape.
Additionally, UMG has initiated conversations with leading AI music companies and emerging AI startups to foster “Responsible AI” opportunities. By doing so, the organization aims to strike a balance between technological advancements and safeguarding artists’ rights, their livelihoods, and the overall creative ecosystem.
Harleston delivered a resolute message to lawmakers, emphasizing the potential to establish legal clarity that not only legitimizes but also enhances generative AI. He implored Congress to act decisively and swiftly in the interest of creators and the longevity of our vibrant cultural heritage. UMG stands prepared to collaborate with legislators and industry peers to find practical solutions that uphold artistic integrity while embracing the potential of responsible AI. By seizing this opportunity, Congress can forge a brighter path forward for generative AI, ensuring a harmonious coexistence between technology and human creativity.
Conclusion:
Universal Music Group’s push for AI copyright regulations signifies a pivotal development in the market. The company’s advocacy highlights the growing concerns surrounding the unauthorized use of AI-generated content and emphasizes the need to protect artists’ rights, brand reputation, and creative livelihoods. As Congress considers these proposed regulations, it sets the stage for defining legal boundaries and fostering responsible AI practices within the music industry. This proactive approach by UMG demonstrates the industry’s recognition of the potential benefits of AI while prioritizing the preservation of human creativity and the longevity of our cultural heritage.
