A coalition of record labels and artist organizations is pressuring leading streaming services, such as Spotify and Apple Music. They are demanding the implementation of clear labeling for songs that used artificial intelligence in their creation. The aim of this initiative is to ensure greater transparency for listeners and protect the authenticity of human creativity.
The group proposes introducing two types of labels, which would function similarly to current explicit content warnings. One label would identify recordings fully generated by AI, while the other would mark works where technology served only as an assistant to a human author. The impetus for this step is also the fact that fully automated songs now account for more than one-third of newly uploaded works on the Apple Music platform.
Transparency as a Priority
“Fans want to know if and how generative AI was used in the music they listen to. These labels will provide instantly understandable access to transparency,” the coalition said in a joint statement.
Representatives of the music industry emphasize that they do not want to ban technology, but to give consumers a choice. Moreover, the effort to uncover the artificial origin of content is not limited to music. An analysis by Pangram Labs showed that, for example, on LinkedIn, up to 41% of long text posts show signs of being generated by artificial intelligence, which is significantly more than on platforms like X or Reddit.
Restrictions for Minors in Europe
While the music world tackles AI, the European Union is addressing the safety of children in the digital space. An expert report for the European Commission recommends significant restrictions for social networks. Key recommendations include:
Prohibiting access to social networks for children under 13 without adult supervision.
Mandatory safety features for teenagers up to 18 years old, such as limiting endless scrolling.
Recommendation of zero screen time for children under three years old.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen stated that age-appropriate restrictions must be introduced. According to her, this is not about a simple ban on children's access to networks, but about protecting them from how digital platforms can approach children and exploit their attention. If the EU adopts these rules, it will mark a significant turnaround for global brands and their marketing strategies.