1. Sony Music Group warns Google, Microsoft, and OpenAI about unauthorized use of music for training AI systems.
2. Sony demands compliance with copyright laws from over 700 companies that may have used its songs without authorization.
3. Sony sets one-month deadline for responses and hints at potential legal action for non-compliance, as artists and creators advocate against AI’s influence on the music industry.
Sony Music Group, the world’s largest music publisher, has issued warnings to companies like Google, Microsoft, and OpenAI regarding the unauthorized use of its music for training AI systems. The company represents iconic artists such as Beyonce and Adele and demanded compliance with copyright laws from over 700 companies that may have used its songs without permission. Sony stated in a letter, not publicly available, that it believes its music has been used without authorization and will protect its intellectual property to the fullest extent of the law, potentially utilizing the upcoming EU AI Act as a means of enforcement.
In addition to the letter, Sony Music also made a public declaration that its music should not be used for non-consensual AI training. The company requested detailed information from the companies about the use of its songs, with a one-month deadline for responses and the possibility of legal action against those who fail to comply. Sony Music’s CEO and president spoke about this issue at the 2024 CES event, emphasizing the importance of artists and companies retaining control and compensation for their work in the face of unauthorized AI training.
The controversy surrounding AI training continues to grow, with generative AI tools like text-to-audio generators becoming more advanced. Sony’s main concern is that these datasets often include copyrighted works without proper consent or compensation for rights holders. Artists, including prominent figures like Billie Eilish and Jon Bon Jovi, as well as organizations like the Artist Rights Alliance, are pushing back against AI’s increasing influence in the music industry. Legal action may be on the horizon as labels and individual creators seek to protect their rights in the face of AI technology.