Merlin, a key digital licensing partner for independent music, has issued a comprehensive statement on AI's impact on the music industry and its position regarding AI usage of members' music.

The organization emphasizes several key points regarding AI and music:

1. Core Values and Position

• Supports responsible AI development that respects human artistry
• Embraces technological advancement while protecting creative value
• Recognizes AI's potential benefits for the creative community

2. Acceptable AI Usage

• Supports AI tools that enhance human creativity
• Welcomes partnerships with AI companies offering fair compensation
• Endorses AI products enabling new artistic collaboration opportunities

3. Opposition to Unauthorized Usage

• Strictly against AI training on members' music without permission
• Rejects claims of "fair use" for unauthorized AI training
• Requires explicit written authorization for any AI-related use of member repertoire

4. Legal Perspective

• Challenges AI companies' unauthorized use under all four fair use criteria
• Highlights commercial impact on original works
• Emphasizes protection of intellectual property rights

5. Protection of Independent Artists

• Represents thousands of independent labels and artists
• Defends against threats to artists' livelihoods
• Supports sustainable compensation for creative work


Merlin invites responsible AI companies interested in using independent music to contact them at [email protected] for proper licensing and collaboration opportunities.

The organization maintains that protecting artists' rights while embracing technological advancement is crucial for the music industry's future, emphasizing the need for proper compensation and regulation in AI development.

Related Articles

Previous Articles