In the article “Bop or Bot” from MusicMagpie, an important discussion arises around AI-generated music, particularly in regard to streaming songs that involve cover versions or the use of an artist’s voice through artificial intelligence. While the article highlights concerns about artists losing money each time AI-generated songs are played, it also provides an opportunity to look deeper into the matter. There is a broader narrative at play, one that questions whether these AI-generated streams actually harm artists financially, or if they represent a new and additional layer of musical activity that should be embraced.
The concern that artists might lose money due to AI-generated music stems from the notion that streams of these songs are siphoning plays from the original artist’s catalog. However, this argument might be a bit misleading. When we consider the larger context, AI music and authentic artist streams are not necessarily competing for the same listeners. Instead, they are part of a broader ecosystem where listeners can enjoy both, and in many cases, AI-generated songs could even drive more attention to the original works. For instance, if someone hears an AI cover of a famous song, there’s a good chance that they will seek out the original track or delve deeper into the artist’s legitimate catalog. This can lead to a net increase in streams for the original artist, not a reduction.
The False Equivalency of “Lost” Streams
The notion of “lost” streams, as the article suggests, implies that AI-generated music takes away from the rightful earnings of an artist. But this assumes that the audience would have otherwise listened to the original version, which is not necessarily true. The reality is that listeners are curious, experimental, and consume music in a wide variety of ways. AI-generated music often serves a different purpose than the original, such as being a novelty or showcasing technological advancements rather than pure artistic expression. It’s possible that many listeners who stream AI covers or songs using an artist’s voice are not doing so in place of the original but in addition to it.
The rise of AI-generated music represents an expansion of musical experiences rather than a substitution for existing ones. AI music might introduce fans to genres, styles, or even specific artists they wouldn’t have explored otherwise. For example, if an AI-generated version of a classic rock song goes viral, it could ignite renewed interest in the band that originally performed it. This means that AI music doesn’t necessarily “siphon” off streams but can actually lead to a greater number of legitimate plays. It’s a bridge to more engagement rather than a detour away from authentic artistry.
AI Music as a New Form of Musical Activity
The streams generated by AI cover songs and AI voice-augmented tracks are not simply “lost” money; they represent an entirely new form of music activity. These AI-generated creations tap into a technological frontier that’s reshaping how we think about creativity, originality, and consumption in the digital age. While the traditional music industry might view this new activity through a lens of lost revenue, it’s more useful to see it as a new avenue of opportunity.
AI can enhance the accessibility of music creation. Tools that mimic an artist’s voice or create AI-generated tracks allow more people to participate in the music creation process. For artists, this could be viewed as a form of collaboration rather than competition. Instead of lamenting these AI tracks as revenue-draining forces, artists could consider how to harness this new technology to extend their creative reach. They could collaborate with AI to create new, innovative music, or use AI-generated versions of their songs to engage with fans in ways that wouldn’t be possible otherwise.
Compensation for Songwriters and Rights Holders
With that said, it’s important to acknowledge that songwriters, performers, and rights holders must be compensated when their work is used, even in AI-generated music. Just as in traditional cover songs or remixes, there are existing systems in place to ensure that songwriters receive their share of royalties. These frameworks should continue to evolve to encompass AI music. However, there’s no need for additional oversight beyond what’s already in place. The existing legal infrastructure for protecting intellectual property and compensating creators can be adapted to cover these new forms of musical creation without adding excessive regulation.
One area where protections are particularly important is the use of an artist’s voice through AI. The unauthorized use of someone’s likeness, whether visual or auditory, is something that laws already address. While there may be gray areas in how AI-generated voice tracks are treated, the foundation for protecting artists from unauthorized use of their voice exists and should be enforced. However, this doesn’t mean we should stifle the potential of AI music with overregulation. Instead, we should adapt current laws to ensure fairness while allowing this new wave of creativity to thrive.
Embracing AI Music for Growth
Rather than viewing AI-generated music as a threat, artists should consider the ways in which they can capitalize on this emerging form of creativity. AI is not going away, and its role in music is only going to expand. By embracing AI, artists can take advantage of new opportunities for collaboration, promotion, and experimentation. For instance, artists could use AI to remix their own tracks in ways that would be impossible with traditional methods, or they could partner with AI platforms to create interactive experiences for fans.
Some artists might feel that AI-generated music diminishes the human touch in art. However, AI doesn’t need to replace human creativity—it can enhance it. When used thoughtfully, AI can push the boundaries of what’s possible, giving artists new tools to explore their sound and reach wider audiences. It’s up to artists to embrace this technology and use it in ways that suit their creative vision.
Conclusion: Embrace the New
The rise of AI-generated music doesn’t need to signal a loss for the traditional music industry. Instead, it’s an invitation to expand the boundaries of what we consider music and who can create it. While there are legitimate concerns about fair compensation for songwriters and artists, the focus should be on how to adapt and embrace these new opportunities rather than resist them.
Rather than viewing AI music as a siphon, artists and rights holders can view it as a new revenue stream and a way to engage with fans in fresh ways. The music landscape is constantly evolving, and AI is simply the next step in that journey. By embracing the new, artists can stay at the forefront of this transformation and take advantage of the many opportunities it offers.
