Music Industry Groups Unite Behind New AI Labeling Standard
The music business is taking a unified approach to addressing one of AI's biggest issues: how to inform listeners when generative artificial intelligence has factored into the music they're listening to.
IFPI, the RIAA, A2IM, WIN, IMPALA, The Recording Academy, SAG-AFTRA and the Human Artistry Campaign have unveiled a track-labeling framework to identify recordings that are "AI-generated" and "AI-assisted." The system is intended for adoption on digital music services worldwide and designed to evolve with the rapidly changing technology.
The initiative arrives as AI-created music continues to flood streaming platforms. Deezer reported in April that AI-generated tracks accounted for 44% of all new music delivered to the service; Apple Music has said that more than one-third of uploaded tracks are "100% AI."
Under the proposed scheme, an “AI-Generated” label would apply when generative AI creates the entirety—or primary portion—of a recording's creative elements, such as lead vocals, key instrumental performances or fully prompt-generated music; “AI-Assisted” would identify recordings that remain substantially human-created but incorporate generative AI for certain expressive elements while retaining human lead vocals and primary instrumental performances.
Said IFPI CEO Vikki Oakley and RIAA Chairman/CEO Mitch Glazier in a joint statement: "Fans want to know whether and how generative AI has been used in the music they listen to. 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."
Recording Academy CEO Harvey Mason Jr. added, "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. This initiative ensures that creativity, authorship and artistic intent remain at the center of every song."
The “AI-Generated” and “AI-Assisted” labels will be supported by metadata and delivery systems, with visual icons providing listeners a quick indication of how AI factored into a recording. The coalition plans to work with DSPs, distributors, aggregators and standards orgs to encourage broad implementation.
Notably, the initial arrangement applies only to sound recordings; it does not yet address the use of generative AI in songwriting, lyrics, videos or artwork.