Sony Draws Line In The Sand On Artificial Intelligence. | Story
With AI already infiltrating the music industry, highlighted by the release of a new song from Randy Travis using AI technology, Sony is warning hundreds of companies not to use artists signed to their labels in AI applications without permission.
According to NBC News, Sony Music Group (SMG) is sending formal letters to more than 700 generative AI companies and streaming platforms prohibiting them from using SMG content without explicit licensing agreements.
Sony Music Group is home to Columbia Records, RCA Records, and Epic Records.
In the letter, Sony said it recognizes the “significant potential and advancement of” artificial intelligence. “However, unauthorized use of SMG Content in the training, development or commercialization of AI systems deprives SMG Companies and SMG Talent of control over and appropriate compensation for the uses of SMG Content, conflicts with the normal exploitation of those works, unreasonably prejudices our legitimate interests, and infringes our intellectual property and other rights.”
The letter asks the companies to confirm that they have not used any Sony artists without permission or provide details on how it may have been used in AI training.
“Evolutions in technology have frequently shifted the course of creative industries. AI will likely continue that long-standing trend,” the letter stated. “However, that innovation must ensure that songwriters’ and recording artists’ rights, including copyrights, are respected.”
