Unpacking the Chaos: What Happens When an AI Artist Lands a Record Deal?

Two weeks ago, Hallwood Media made headlines by signing Mississippi-based songwriter Telisha “Nikki” Jones for her AI-driven music project “Xania Monet.” Reports say the deal could be worth up to $3 million. Xania Monet has garnered over 1 million streams on Spotify and consistently surpasses 100,000 views on her Instagram Reels, showcasing her AI-generated persona.

This raises intriguing questions about copyright. Experts from various fields suggest that the law around AI-generated content is still evolving. Current guidelines indicate that copyright protection can only be granted to works that include human creativity. In this case, that likely applies only to the lyrics crafted by Jones.

Kevin Madigan, from the Copyright Alliance, notes that even without robust copyright protections, artists can still sell their work. However, buyers may hesitate, questioning the value of purchasing something they could possibly obtain for free. He aptly asks, “Well, why am I paying you for this if you have no claim to the copyright?”

Interestingly, the music produced through an AI system, like Suno—used by Jones to create her songs—may not be copyrightable on its own. This leaves Hallwood Media in a complex position. The record label might be investing heavily in a product that lacks solid ownership rights. Jones’ manager, Romel Murphy, indicated that other labels backed away when they learned Suno was involved.

George Howard, a music business professor at Berklee, highlights the difference between AI and tools like autotune, emphasizing how AI raises unique concerns about the data it trains on. As of January 2023, the U.S. Copyright Office has recorded over a thousand works with partial copyright from AI collaborations, but this doesn’t ensure full protection.

The legal landscape is undergoing rapid changes. Senator Peter Welch recently introduced a bill focused on protecting artists from unauthorized AI training. Howard emphasizes how these legal adjustments lag behind fast-moving technology, creating a complicated relationship between artists and their digital tools.

For more on the evolving legal considerations around AI and copyright, you can refer to this Copyright Office guidance.

In summary, the fusion of AI and music poses significant challenges and opportunities. As the industry adapts, artists, labels, and lawmakers must navigate this uncharted territory. Only time will tell how these innovations will reshape the music landscape.

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AI,Copyright,Entertainment,Law,Music,Policy