Key Takeaways

• IFPI’s Support: The International Federation of the Phonographic Industry advocates for clearer labeling of music created by generative AI.
• Eligibility Guidelines: Four guidelines have been proposed for AI-generated songs to be eligible for music charts.
• Global Application: The new principles will be adopted across various international music charts.
• CEO’s Statement: Victoria Oakley emphasizes the importance of human creativity in official music charts.

The International Federation of the Phonographic Industry (IFPI) has backed calls for clearer labeling of music recordings developed by generative artificial intelligence on global music charts.

On Wednesday (July 29), a group of leading record labels, including the big three majors (Sony Music Group, Universal Music Group, and Warner Music Group) and several key independents, called for transparent labeling and greater clarity on what generative AI tools were used to create music and their chart eligibility.

The label’s proposal set out four eligibility guidelines for songs that use AI to be included on music charts: that the AI platform used to create a song is authorized; that the song complies with copyright laws, related rights, and personality rights; that the use of AI within the song is properly communicated and labeled; and that the track is primarily created by a human and does not raise chart manipulation or streaming concerns.

Now the IFPI, a trade body that represents the recording industry worldwide, has said they will adopt the new set of principles in a number of charts globally.

The changes will be applied directly to several charts that the IFPI manages: The Official MENA Charts (Algeria, Bahrain, Egypt, Iraq, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Morocco, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Tunisia, UAE); The Official Southeast Asia Charts (Vietnam, Philippines, Thailand, Indonesia, Singapore, Malaysia); as well as charts in South Africa, Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, Mexico, Peru, and Uruguay.

The IFPI has also spotlighted several international charts outside of their management that it will work with to apply the principles. These include South Korea’s Circle Chart, Spain’s Promusicae Charts, France’s SNEP Charts, Australia’s ARIA Charts and more. See the full list here.

Victoria Oakley, the IFPI’s CEO, said: “Official music charts do more than just track sales; they celebrate human artistry and endeavor. As fans, we want to recognize the achievements of the artists creating the music we love and it’s right that charts continue to showcase music with human creativity at its heart.”

“When properly licensed and authorized, AI provides exciting opportunities to enhance the creative toolkit. These principles provide a pathway for that innovation while ensuring we don’t include tracks generated by systems that are ripping off artists and their music.”

“AI is evolving rapidly and it’s critical that the music community takes the lead on how to ensure technology and human artistry grow together responsibly.”