Music Industry Creates Classification to Distinguish AI-Generated Music

Leading international music industry organizations have launched a new labeling system designed to identify the extent to which artificial intelligence (AI) has been involved in the creation of music. This initiative seeks to bring greater transparency to consumers and establish a unified industry standard.

The system, announced by a coalition including the International Federation of the Phonographic Industry (IFPI), The Grammys, SAG-AFTRA, the RIAA, and others, introduces two distinct categories: 'AI Generated' and 'AI Assisted.' A recording will be labeled 'AI Generated' if AI created the majority of its creative elements, such as vocals, instrumental performances, or the entire composition based on prompts.

Conversely, the 'AI Assisted' label will apply to recordings primarily created by humans, where AI was used for specific expressive elements. In these cases, human artists are responsible for the main vocals and lead instruments. The labels are intended for use on sound recordings and will soon be available, though the current system does not cover AI's use in lyrics, compositions, music videos, or album art.

This move comes as AI's presence in music creation grows. Streaming services like Deezer have reported a significant percentage of new tracks being AI-generated, and Apple Music estimates over a third of uploads are entirely AI-created. The new labels aim to help listeners distinguish between fully AI-produced tracks and those where human artists have incorporated AI as a tool to enhance their creativity.