TECHNOMALIST
Some of the music industry’s biggest players are proposing rules that would block songs created with AI from appearing on official charts unless they meet strict criteria, including being “substantially human made.”
The Verge reports that Universal Music Group, Sony Music, and Warner Music Group, along with Mom+Pop Music, are behind the proposal. It goes beyond a separate initiative led by the RIAA and other groups that would require standardized labels for tracks that use AI. The labels’ plan not only calls for clear labeling but would also keep AI songs off international charts entirely if they fail to meet several conditions.
Central to the proposal is the requirement that eligible recordings be “substantially human made.” What that phrase actually means, however, remains vague. The Verge reached out to Sony, UMG, and Mom+Pop for clarification but did not receive an immediate response.
Other proposed requirements include that any generative AI service used to create a recording must be properly authorized and lawful, that the recording does not raise stream or chart manipulation concerns, and that its use complies with copyright, related rights, and personality rights laws. Furthermore, making the recording available must not violate the terms of service of the AI tool used, and the involvement of AI must be properly signaled to listeners on streaming platforms in line with applicable laws and labeling standards.
The International Federation of the Phonographic Industry (IFPI) has expressed support for the labels’ stance. Still, no organization responsible for maintaining official music charts has indicated immediate plans to adopt the rules.
The proposal comes amid growing tension between traditional music companies and AI developers over the use of copyrighted material to train generative models. By seeking to set chart eligibility, the labels aim to protect the perceived value of human artistry while navigating the unsettled legal landscape around AI-generated content.
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