Hollywood Union and major Music companies agree to protect against AI.

The preliminary agreement with major record labels such as Warner Music Group and Sony Music Entertainment requires approval and payment before launching songs that include digital renditions of artists’ voices. In addition, the entertainment industry labor force has successfully negotiated for increased minimum wages and protections against the utilization of artificial intelligence.

A statement on the website of the Hollywood actors’ union, Screen Actors Guild-American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA), says the executive committee of SAG-AFTRA, which represents roughly 160,000 actors and media professionals, unanimously approved the “Sound Recordings Agreement,” which runs from 2021 to 2026.

Hollywood Union’s Groundbreaking Agreement

The proposed agreement with record labels mandates approval and reimbursement before releasing songs featuring digital replicas of artists’ voices. This is in response to the music industry’s challenge of songs produced by generative AI, which allows internet users to easily replicate the voices of artists often without the artists’ permission.

According to SAG-AFTRA, “artist,” “singer,” and “royalty artist” refer exclusively to human beings within the terms of this agreement. Enhancements to health and retirement benefits as well as a rise in the portion of streaming revenue attributable to contributions are also part of the agreement. A final member vote for ratification is anticipated in the upcoming weeks.

In 2023, AI became a big deal in the entertainment industry, taking center stage in talks between major studios and SAG-AFTRA. After several months of strikes, talks ended in November, and a deal signed.

Music Authenticity: SAG-AFTRA’s Stance on AI in Entertainment

Duncan Crabtree-Ireland, the principal negotiator and national executive director of SAG-AFTRA, underlines the significance of music’s essence continuously originating from real human expression and lived experiences.

“This agreement ensures that our members are protected. While technology can enhance the creative process, the essence of music must always be rooted in genuine human expression and experience.”

Regarding the usage of AI voices in video games, SAG-AFTRA and Replica Studios, a firm that develops AI voice technology, reached another agreement in January. According to the agreement, artists can refuse “continued use” of their voices in “new projects,” as well as the right to consent and negotiate with the AI business.

AI has a lot of potential in the film industry, particularly in virtual production. The AI protection agreement seeks to guarantee equitable recognition for industry participants.