In an effort to help identity AI-generated music on streaming platforms, several music companies have banded together to create a new system that will help listeners distinguish between what’s “AI-Generated” or “AI-Assisted” by marking tracks with a “GenAI” label. RIAA, SAG-AFTRA, A2IM, WIN, IMPALA, IFPI, The Grammys, and Human Artistry Campaign are behind the new endeavor.
“Fans want to know whether and how generative AI has been used in the music to which they listen,” said IFPI CEO Vikki Oakley and RIAA chairman and CEO Mitch Glazier in a joint statement. “Given how important human artistry and authenticity is to music lovers all over the world, these labels will provide an immediately understandable and easily scalable approach to transparency. We acknowledge the many ways AI is being used creatively, so we expect to offer fans additional information as adoption of generative AI labeling grows and technology evolves.”
Music streaming service Deezer reported back in April that AI-generated songs make up 44% of new music uploaded to their platform, with Apple Music claiming that over one-third of the songs uploaded on their platform are 100% AI. With several artists also now openly admitting to using AI in some capacity in their songwriting, notably like Rudy Sarzo has done recently, the need for labels like these seems all the more paramount.
“As AI continues to be integrated into the creative process, artists and fans alike deserve a clear way to communicate how and when it’s being used,” said Grammys CEO Harvey Mason, Jr. “This initiative ensures that creativity, authorship, and artistic intent remain at the center of every song. Giving artists the ability to tell that story strengthens trust and supports a more sustainable future for music.”
Ian Harrison, CEO of American Association of Independent Music (A2IM), also offered up that: “The independent community knows the magic of music lives in an authentic connection between artists and fans. Technology will keep offering new ways to make and enjoy music, but that bond still runs on trust. As questions of integrity, authenticity, and provenance grow, that trust depends on people knowing what’s real. That’s why A2IM supports the whole industry coming together behind a clear, shared standard for labeling AI.”
Specifically, visual icons will be affixed next to an AI-generated track using metadata. If any AI was used, the new system would flag it due to reasons like “Lead vocal performance generated by AI,” “Key instrumental performance generated by AI,” or “Entirely prompt-generated AI music.”
As of this current stage in the system’s development, it doesn’t mark whether generative AI was used for writing lyrics, cover art, composition, or music videos.
