Recent research conducted by PRS for Music has highlighted the growing apprehension surrounding the impact of generative AI in the music industry. This new survey builds upon the findings of an August 2023 survey, gathering insights from over 2,630 PRS members.
Notably, four out of five respondents (79%) expressed concerns about competition from AI-generated music, reflecting a five-point increase since 2023. Furthermore, 76% acknowledged that AI could have detrimental effects on artists’ livelihoods, which marks a 7% rise compared to the previous survey.
In contrast, there has been a significant increase in the understanding of AI among creators. Over 70% of respondents reported a better grasp of how AI contributes to music creation, representing a 19 percentage point rise since the last survey.
Support for measures aimed at fostering a fairer AI ecosystem was evident, with 93% of respondents agreeing that artists should be compensated if their work is utilized in AI-generated content—a modest increase of 1% from the prior year. Additionally, 92% insisted that AI tools should be transparent regarding their methods of generating music, while more than 90% of those surveyed wanted the option to decide whether their music could be used for training AI systems (up by 7%).
Commenting on these survey results, John Mottram, Chief Strategy Officer at PRS for Music, stated: ‘It’s clear why creators are worried. Technology companies often train models on copyrighted works without authorization or compensation, creating services that compete with human creators.’
Mottram added, ‘While music creators are already leveraging AI to enhance their creativity, it is crucial for policymakers to ensure that artists’ livelihoods are safeguarded rather than compromised for the benefit of large tech firms. We will continue to advocate for the value of songwriters and composers, striving for a future where innovation and artistic expression can flourish together.’
The creative industries play a vital role in the UK economy, contributing over £120 billion annually. As such, PRS is pressing policymakers to establish a solid regulatory framework for AI that protects copyright, allowing creators to make a living and reinvest in their artistic pursuits.
In response to the 2023 AI survey, the PRS Members’ Council developed guiding principles on AI to outline how PRS will engage with the AI sector and policymakers. These principles include:
- Protection of human creativity: Music is a reflection of human emotion and shared experiences. Songwriters and composers are fundamental to all remarkable music. PRS for Music is dedicated to advocating for human creativity by ensuring creators receive fair compensation and credit for their works.
- Choice: Authorization is the cornerstone of copyright and must be upheld. Rightsholders should always retain the right to decide how their works are used, including by AI systems. Music is not merely data; it should not be exploited for others’ benefit.
- Transparency: All AI systems must incorporate auditability and transparency in their development. AI-generated content should be clearly labeled for public awareness.
- Global cooperation: PRS for Music will collaborate with international partners to establish an enforceable regulatory framework for AI companies that ensures accountability for their actions.
In conclusion, as creators navigate the complexities of AI in music, it is vital for industry stakeholders and policymakers to prioritize the protection of artistic integrity and ensure a balanced relationship between innovation and the invaluable contributions of human creators.
