A group of musicians seeks to convey their silence to UK legislators. Over 1,000 artists, including Kate Bush and Hans Zimmer, released a silent album entitled “Is This What We Want?” to protest the government’s proposed modifications to copyright law.
These artists contend that the changes would enable artificial intelligence companies to create products using copyrighted materials—including music—without obtaining necessary licenses. The album’s track list articulates the message: “The British Government Must Not Legalize Music Theft To Benefit AI Companies.”
Ed Newton-Rex, a composer involved in the project, noted that the album, featuring recordings from empty studios, symbolizes the detrimental impact on musicians’ livelihoods. This release coincided with the conclusion of the British government’s public consultation regarding copyright adjustments.
Despite the proposal allowing artists the option to opt-out of AI utilization, widespread apprehensions regarding the technology’s effects on artists persist. The British government stated it is seeking a balanced approach that addresses the interests of AI developers and copyright holders.
Efforts to counter the legislative changes have emerged, including initiatives from the Creative Rights in AI Coalition, which advocates for companies to obtain permission before utilizing artists’ works for AI training. In a letter, 34 artists called for the preservation of UK creative copyright against AI encroachment, asserting that unmodified the new proposal jeopardizes the nation’s cultural and economic contributions.
Kate Bush expressed concern over the undervaluation of artistic contributions, emphasizing the necessity of protecting music. She underscored that the silent tracks poignantly illustrate the potential impact of the proposed anti-copyright changes on the future of music.
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