Tidal to Label AI Music, Ban Royalties for AI Songs

Tidal announced on Monday a new policy that mandates artists label music created wholly or substantially by artificial intelligence, with these tracks becoming ineligible for royalty payments. This updated AI policy is set to take effect on July 15 and will also apply to Tidal Upload, the company's independent artist platform. The streaming service aims to provide transparency to listeners regarding the origin of music and to ensure fair compensation for human artists.

The policy signifies a significant step by a major music streaming platform to address the growing presence of AI-generated content in the music industry. By requiring clear labeling, Tidal intends to empower consumers to make informed choices about the music they stream. The exclusion of AI-generated music from royalty pools is designed to protect the revenue streams of human creators, who are compensated based on stream counts and other metrics.

Tidal's move comes amid increasing debate within the music and technology sectors about the ethical implications and economic impact of AI in creative fields. While AI tools can assist artists in various aspects of music production, questions have arisen about ownership, copyright, and the potential devaluation of human artistry. The company has not detailed specific thresholds for what constitutes "substantially created using AI," leaving room for interpretation by artists and their representatives.

This policy is expected to influence how other streaming services and music platforms approach AI-generated content. The July 15 implementation date provides a clear deadline for artists and labels to adapt their submission processes and understand the new guidelines. Tidal's proactive stance on AI music labeling and royalty distribution sets a precedent for the industry as it navigates the evolving landscape of music creation and consumption.