YouTube is fast becoming the home of artificial intelligence (AI)-generated music, and the platform is trying to strike a balance between fans of the technology and record companies eager to protect their copyrights. The company and partners such as Universal Music Group (UMG) have announced a new set of principles for AI music. In theory, this approach encourages the diffusion of AI technologies while paying artists.
YouTube argues that first of all, “Artificial intelligence is among us” and must have a “responsible” strategy. Accordingly, it creates a Music Artificial Intelligence Incubation Center that will affect the company’s strategy. UMG and the artists it represents (including big names like Rosanne Cash, Yo Gotti and Frank Sinatra) will help YouTube gather insights from AI experiments.
YouTube also states that AI music must include “appropriate protections” against copyright infringement and offer “opportunities” to partners who wish to participate. While the video giant hasn’t detailed what this entails, it says it will be based on the Content ID system, which helps rights holders flag their material. In addition to these, YouTube also claims that it will scale its content policies and security structure to adapt to artificial intelligence. The firm currently has systems to detect copyright abuse, misinformation, and other violations, but plans to devote more resources to these methods.
The principles are not entirely clear at the moment and it doesn’t look like it will change YouTube’s stance much. But more details will be revealed in the coming months, including policies, specific technologies, and monetization for creators.
Generative AI is becoming increasingly popular for unauthorized collaborations and merges (including works by UMG artists like Drake and Frank Sinatra), but it’s also finding legitimate uses. The surviving members of The Beatles use AI to create a final song from a recording by John Lennon, while electronic artist Holly Herndon interprets Dolly Parton using AI voice. UMG is also exploring AI-made soundscapes. YouTube’s policies can help it profit from legitimate productions while avoiding lawsuits from artists and record labels that are concerned about their work being stolen.
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