1,000 Artists Unite in Silent Protest Against UK Copyright Changes Favoring AI
Over 1,000 musicians, including Kate Bush and Damon Albarn, have released a silent album titled Is This What We Want? to protest UK government plans that could allow AI companies to use copyrighted content without consent.
In a bold move, more than 1,000 artists, including prominent figures like Kate Bush, Damon Albarn, and Annie Lennox, have joined forces to release a silent album titled Is This What We Want?. This unprecedented protest is aimed at the UK government's proposed changes to copyright laws, which could enable AI companies to use copyrighted materials without permission unless creators opt out.
The Silent Album: A Symbolic Protest
The album features recordings of empty studios and performance spaces, symbolizing the potential impact of these changes on musicians' livelihoods. The tracklist spells out a clear message: "The British government must not legalise music theft to benefit AI companies". All proceeds from the album will be donated to the charity Help Musicians.
Kate Bush expressed her concerns, saying, "In the music of the future, will our voices go unheard?". The album is supported by a wide range of artists, including Billy Ocean, Ed O'Brien from Radiohead, and Dan Smith of Bastille.
Proposed Copyright Changes
The UK government's proposal aims to provide legal clarity by allowing AI developers to use online materials for model development unless rights holders actively choose to opt out. Critics argue that this system is impractical for artists, as it requires them to monitor their work across the internet and contact numerous AI service providers.
Impact on the Music Industry
The UK music sector contributed £7.6 billion to the economy in 2023, highlighting the importance of protecting these industries from potential exploitation. Industry leaders and artists alike have voiced strong opposition to the proposals, emphasizing that the UK can lead in AI innovation without jeopardizing its creative industries.
Sir Elton John, Simon Cowell, and Sir Paul McCartney have also spoken out against the proposals, emphasizing the need for artists to be protected and compensated for their work. The silent album serves as a powerful statement of unity among musicians against what they perceive as a threat to their livelihoods and creative rights.
