Overview
- A coalition led by IFPI and the RIAA unveiled a voluntary, track-level system that uses two icons to mark recordings as either “AI-Generated” when AI created the primary elements or “AI-Assisted” when humans made the core work with some AI help.
- The proposal, backed by the Grammys, SAG-AFTRA, A2IM, WIN, IMPALA and the Human Artistry Campaign, is intended for global adoption and will cover only generative AI in sound recordings, not lyrics, composition, videos, or cover art.
- The groups announced the labeling program on Friday and said they will work with streaming platforms, distributors and standards bodies such as DDEX to develop metadata, delivery rules and implementation timelines.
- Industry sources warn the plan faces major practical hurdles including unreliable audio detection, inconsistent metadata in supply chains, diverging platform rules on disclosure and demonetization, and weak incentives for bad actors to self-report.
- Streaming data already shows wide use of generative AI on services — Deezer reported about 44% of new uploads and Apple Music said over one-third were flagged as 100% AI — raising concerns about impersonation, streaming fraud and impacts on artists’ income and visibility.