Artificial Intelligence is hot topic in the music business these days. Songwriters, like myself, are having a hard time grasping the concept of music that is 100% generated by a computer program. We musicians have spent our lives learning and perfecting the craft, in hopes of one day someone listening to our creations and maybe even liking them. Now, there is computer software that seems to be able to write songs at the touch of a button. What’s more is that these programs are training themselves to write songs by using other peoples work, without the copyright holders authorization. That for me is the biggest issue. When you copywright a song, one right you are guaranteed is the right to create derivative works, that is, write songs that are based off of your own without being guilty of copyright infringement. Well these AI companies are essentially using AI to create derivative works off other peoples creations without their knowledge or permission. Whats more is many music distribution platforms include language in their terms of service that essentially don’t give you the choice as to whether to opt in or opt out.
While it is frustrating to me that someone can assemble a song without learning anything about music, the fact that AI can use my creations to train itself is a far larger concern. Thankfully, a handful of music industry lawyers have taken up the cause but I am doubtful as to the future of songwriting with AI on the landscape. Only time will tell!
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