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Apple, Spotify, and other streaming platforms have pulled a viral AI-generated song called “Heart on My Sleeve” after copyright concerns from Universal Music Group (UMG). The song reportedly violated copyright law since it was created using artificial intelligence tools that have been the focus of other copyright issues.
The creator of the song, known as “ghostwriter”, claimed that it was generated by software trained by artists Drake and The Weeknd. However, UMG contacted the streaming platforms in March 2023, citing the use of AI tools to create the song as a violation of their copyright.
Apple Music, Deezer, Tidal, Spotify, TikTok, and YouTube have all removed the song from their platforms. A link to an original version of the song on YouTube now displays a message saying, “This video is no longer available due to a copyright claim by Universal Music Group”.
UMG praised the platforms for taking action, saying that they have a “fundamental legal and ethical responsibility to prevent the use of their services in ways that harm artists”. An intellectual property lawyer, Jani Ihalainen of RPC, commented on the situation, saying that copyright and artificial intelligence are complex issues.
Ihalainen explained that while “deepfaked” voices that do not specifically copy a performance will most likely not be covered under copyright law, they could be considered a protected work in their own right. He also mentioned that performers have specific rights over their performances under copyright law, including recordings of those performances.
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Neither Drake nor The Weeknd has commented on the situation, but Drake recently expressed his frustration at having his voice duplicated in a music video. “This is the final straw AI”, he posted on Instagram in response to the video.
This incident highlights the growing concerns around the use of AI in the creative industry and the need for clearer copyright laws to address these issues. As AI technology continues to advance, it is crucial for companies and lawmakers to stay ahead of the curve and ensure that the rights of artists and performers are protected.