Sony Music CEO: We will not tolerate illicit training of AI models

At Sony’s yearly business meeting, Rob Stringer, the CEO of Sony Music, shared important thoughts about artificial intelligence (AI) and how it will affect the music world. Stringer believes AI is a very big deal. He said, “AI represents a generational inflection point on Music & Content.” This means he thinks AI will change music and content creation in a major way, just like other big changes in the past.

AI’s Many Uses Stringer sees AI as a tool with many uses stating “AI will be a multidimensional tool for creativity, scalability, & efficiency.” But he knows it’s important to use AI in a way that’s fair to everyone. He said we need “sustainable business models” to make sure AI helps the music industry grow without harming artists.

While Stringer is excited about AI’s potential, he’s also aware of its risks. He strongly stated, “We will not tolerate illicit training of AI models by reckless and unlicensed misuse of this art.” This means Sony Music won’t let anyone use their artists’ work to train AI without permission. Stringer shared that 79% of music fans feel human creativity is still essential in making music. This shows that even with AI, people believe human artists are very important.

Sony Music is working with responsible companies to create good AI business models. Since the start of 2023, they’ve talked with over 350 tech organizations. They are also helping its artists use AI in safe ways:

1. They’ve launched AI-based fan experiences led by artists.
2. They’ve given artists and songwriters AI tools that respect their rights.

Sony Music is actively protecting its artists’ work from AI misuse:

1. In 2023, they took down over 20,000 AI-made songs that misused their content.
2. They sent more than 700 letters to AI companies, asking them not to use Sony’s content for AI training.
3. They’re working with governments worldwide to make rules that protect artists’ rights.
4. They’re even using AI to spot when their artists’ work is misused online.

Check out the full presentation by Rob Stringer here.