SAG-AFTRA wins AI music protections in new deal
The twinkling sounds of Hollywood won’t be replaced by AI just yet.
SAG-AFTRA and major record labels Warner Music Group, Universal Music Group, Disney Music Group, and Sony Music Entertainment have reached a tentative agreement on the use of AI to create imitations, or clones, of Hollywood artists. The deal is a successor to the previous SAG-AFTRA National Code of Fair Practice for Sound Recordings.
According to a statement from the union, the deal mandates that digital replicas of member artists must receive “clear and conspicuous” consent before their release, as well as offer a minimum compensation to the artist and publicize the specific details of the AI sound’s use.
Retroactively covering a five-year period from 2021 to 2026, the union also won increased salary minimums, improvements to health and retirement benefits, and an increase in the percentage of streaming revenue covered by contributions.
Part of its larger contract campaign, SAG-AFTRA previously negotiated AI protections with the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers (AMPTP), winning similar rules for consent and compensation as “AI acting” becomes an ever more threatening reality. At the time of the contract vote, some SAG-AFTRA members were worried the protections didn’t go far enough. The union has also backed California legislation intended to protect actors from digital replicas made without their consent.
Members will vote on ratifying the new music protections later this month.
“This agreement ensures that our members are protected,” wrote Duncan Crabtree-Ireland, SAG-AFTRA National executive director and chief negotiator. “SAG-AFTRA stands firm in the belief that while technology can enhance the creative process, the essence of music must always be rooted in genuine human expression and experience.”