Tennessee has become the first state to sign a bill into law that protects artists and songwriters from having their voice copied and exploited through AI.  In an article in  TN.Gov “Tennessee First in the Nation to Address AI Impact on Music Industry”, the author quotes many legislators and industry professionals who applaud the first-of-its-kind move to protect vocal intellectual property.

We know the benefits of AI, because we use it everyday in a myriad of ways. But when the dark side of AI emerges, such as theft, we need to be aware that there is more to AI than meets the eye (and ear).

The following are a few excerpts from this statement from TN.Gov:

“The emergence of generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) resulted in fake recordings that are not authorized by the artist and is wrong, period. The Nashville Songwriters Association International (NSAI) applauds Tennessee Governor Bill Lee, Senate Leader Jack Johnson and House Leader William Lamberth for introducing legislation that adds the word “voice” to the existing law – making it crystal clear that unauthorized AI-generated fake recordings are subject to legal action in the State of Tennessee. This is an important step in what will be an ongoing challenge to regulate generative AI music creations.” –Nashville Songwriters Association International

“As technology advances, we must ensure the intellectual property of these incredibly talented artists, such as their voice, is fully protected.”  –House Majority Leader William Lamberth, R-Portland

“While the rapid advancement of artificial intelligence is exciting in many ways it also presents new challenges — especially for singers, songwriters and other music professionals.” –Senate Majority Leader Jack Johnson, R-Franklin

This legislation is a step in the right direction, for sure.  AI theft is a serious and far-reaching breach of our way of conducting business in the music industry, and seems to leave no room for civility and order. There is an interesting article in Music Business Worldwide that address this issue, here.

Read the full article  from TN.Gov

~aj