Sony Music recently announced a large-scale takedown of AI-generated counterfeit music. Reports indicate that over 75,000 tracks mimicking artists like Harry Styles have been removed.
Sony Music executives stated that the number of AI-generated counterfeit songs is likely just the tip of the iceberg, with the removed tracks representing only a fraction of the problem. Current identification and removal mechanisms rely heavily on manual screening, meaning the actual volume of AI-generated music entering the market likely far surpasses the number removed.
In a submission to the UK government, Sony Music highlighted the direct harm AI-generated recordings on streaming platforms are causing to legitimate musicians' commercial interests. Executives warned that the situation could worsen if the UK loosens copyright protections. Insiders noted that the challenge primarily affects major artists; popular singers like Harry Styles, Queen, and Beyoncé are frequent targets of AI mimicry.
Sony's submission points out that the current copyright system requires AI developers to pay copyright holders for using their content in training. Government reform proposals, however, could reduce the need for AI to obtain paid licenses.
Sony warns that the proposal could severely damage the UK music industry, which is currently the world's third-largest recorded music market and the second-largest exporter of recorded music. This reform could weaken the UK's competitiveness in the global music industry.
