SAG-AFTRA wants to strike deal with record labels over AI
SAG-AFTRA is attempting to crack down on singers’ voices being imitated by artificial intelligence in a new agreement that will outline new conditions for record labels to adhere to.
The call for a new deal follows the recent SAG-AFTRA actors’ strike, which resulted in conditions being set for the use of AI in film and television.
A tentative agreement has already been implemented with a handful of major labels, including Warner Music Group, Sony Music Entertainment, Universal Music Group and Disney Music Group, urging use of AI to be “ethical and responsible”, per Variety.
The new agreement, called Sound Recordings Code, will ensure that labels must receive consent from its singers before utilising their voices for AI purposes. The agreement also sets a limit on AI replication of their voices, claiming they can only use three “sides” per session.
The agreement will mean that use of AI for record labels and singers can be used in a less exploitative manner, giving back control to those who fear their voices may be used without their consent for profitable gain.
If labels use synthetic voices in certain projects, the agreement states that they still have to make royalties payments to a union distribution fund.
According to Duncan Crabtree-Ireland, the union’s executive director, the agreement will ensure “it’s not less expensive to use a synthetic voice.”
Last year, the union agreed to a tentative deal with major Hollywood studios which will safeguard against the use of AI while improving the changing working conditions brought about by the streaming landscape.
After the deal was announced, the union informed its members that it “will protect members from the threat of AI, and for the first time, establishes a streaming participation bonus.”
Meanwhile, last month, The Who frontman Roger Daltrey has claimed that the rise of artificial intelligence “could destroy the music industry”.
Appearing on the Shaun Keaveny’s Daily Grind podcast, Daltrey was asked about the advent of AI technology. Seemingly, the singer felt confident in the limitations of the technology, saying, “The one thing, I totally believe AI will never have, and it will be its downfall, it will never have empathy. ”
The Who frontman continued, “It’s going to destroy the music industry if we’re not careful […] Music is a different language, and we shouldn’t let AI control that.”
This is a developing story.
Never Miss A Beat
The Far Out Music Newsletter
All the latest music news from the independent voice of culture.
Straight to your inbox.