A coalition of 1,000 musicians has launched a “silent album” to voice their protest against proposed changes to the UK’s copyright law. The initiative is in response to the UK government's plan to permit artificial intelligence (AI) companies to utilize copyrighted works without needing permission or offering compensation. This move aims to foster AI development and entice companies to establish operations in the UK. The album, devoid of traditional music, delivers a potent message through its track titles, and is set to be released on music platforms this Tuesday. All donations or proceeds from the album will support the charity Help Musicians.
The album comprises 12 tracks, each title deliberately crafted to articulate a clear protest: "The British government must not legalize music theft to benefit AI companies." Spearheading this endeavor is Ed Newton-Rex, a classically trained composer and advocate against AI training without licensing. Newton-Rex, who previously developed an AI-based music composition platform called Jukedeck, which was later acquired by TikTok, has been vocal about the implications of the government’s proposed policy.
Newton-Rex has raised concerns about the lack of an opt-out mechanism for artists and the absence of transparency in tracking what specific materials are used by AI systems.
“We know that opt-out schemes are just not taken up,” – Ed Newton-Rex
He warns that the current approach could result in the bulk of creators' work being handed over to AI companies without consent.
“This is just going to give 90, 95% of people’s work to AI companies. That’s without a doubt.” – Ed Newton-Rex
Newton-Rex notes the irony in how artists have been encouraged to share their work online for exposure, only to face the risk of having it exploited by AI technologies.
“We’ve been told for decades to share our work online, because it’s good for exposure. But now AI companies and, incredibly, governments are turning around and saying, ‘Well, you put that online for free …” – Ed Newton-Rex
The silent album is more than just an act of defiance; it reflects broader anxieties within the creative industries. Newton-Rex's petition against the proposed changes has garnered over 47,000 signatures from writers, visual artists, actors, and other industry professionals. The petition underscores widespread discontent with what many perceive as a policy that prioritizes technological advancement at the expense of artistic rights.
Newton-Rex currently resides in the Bay Area, contemplating how to navigate future innovations without disregarding the value of past creative endeavors. His efforts highlight a significant concern: how can technological progress be harmonized with the preservation of intellectual property rights?
The album's release comes as the UK government prepares to implement these copyright law changes. Artists like Thomas Hewitt Jones, who also contributed to the silent album, emphasize the project's symbolic nature.
“You can hear my cats moving around,” – Thomas Hewitt Jones
This statement alludes to the minimalistic content within the album, emphasizing its purpose as a protest rather than a typical musical offering.
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