The proposed changes would allow the use pf creative works to train AI systems without permission from or payment to the original creators or rights holders. Image credit: Shutterstock.
‘Is This What We Want?’ consists of recordings of empty studios and performance spaces, representing what could happen to musicians' livelihoods if the UK government's proposed changes to copyright go through.
Artists and organisations backing the album include Riz Ahmed, Kate Bush, Anna Lapwood, Annie Lennox, Paul Leonard-Morgan, Ben Onono and the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra.
Consent, credit and fair remuneration
The UK government's proposed changes include an exemption that would permit tech firms to use creative works – including songs and recordings - to train AI systems for commercial purposes without any need for permission from or payment to the original creators or rights holders.
While the proposals include a new transparency requirement and rights reservation mechanism, these are insufficient and details remain vague.
Writing in her latest lobbying update, MU Head of Communications and Government Relations Isabelle Gutierrez outlines the union’s position: “The MU's position is to oppose the exception and rights reservation system, and request that copyright be strengthened with the introduction of a new AI training right in UK copyright law.
“The new right would prevent labels and publishers relying on vague contractual terms in old agreements to assume they already had the right to license works to AI without consultation with creators.”
Ask your MP to safeguard your rights
Email your MP asking them to help ensure creators are fairly protected from generative AI training.