Music Industry Moves: ASCAP, BMI and SOCAN’s New Registration Policies Allow ‘Partially’ AI-Generated Works

In a significant industry-wide move, the major performance rights organizations ASCAP, BMI, and SOCAN have jointly released updated registration protocols. These new guidelines now permit the registration of musical compositions that blend human creativity with AI-generated elements, while explicitly excluding works created entirely by artificial intelligence. This policy clarification is a direct reaction to the rapidly growing use of AI tools by songwriters and composers in their workflows.

The societies presented a united front against AI companies that train their models using copyrighted music without securing licenses, offering payment, or providing attribution. Their joint statement was forceful, describing these actions as outright "theft" rather than permissible fair use. Elizabeth Matthews, the CEO of ASCAP, provided further insight. ASCAP, a performing rights organization founded in 1914 that now represents the rights of over 975,000 music creators, has a long history of navigating technological shifts. Matthews remarked, "Our members have always adopted new technologies, and AI is no different. By modernizing our policy to accommodate hybrid works, we are affirming the central role of human creativity and demanding that technology companies act fairly and respect creator rights."

Mike O'Neill from BMI described the harmonized policy as a vital first step to protect human artistry in an era of swift technological change, while still supporting artists who choose to use AI. He emphasized that this coordinated approach is intended to ensure all creators are fairly paid for their contributions. Jennifer Brown of SOCAN reinforced this, stating that the alignment provides a crucial ethical and legal framework for AI's role in music creation. She confirmed that while innovation is encouraged, the primary goal remains the protection and respect of human creative expression, ensuring the soul of music stays human. This stance reflects a broader industry trend, as legal experts predict a wave of litigation aimed at defining the boundaries of AI training and copyright law.

In other news, Universal Music Publishing Group (UMPG) has extended its global publishing agreement with the multi-faceted Idris Elba. While globally recognized for his acting roles in "The Wire" and "Luther," Elba has also built a substantial career as a musician, DJ, and producer. He first achieved major chart success with the 2022 single “Boasty,” a collaboration with Wiley, Stefflon Don, and Sean Paul that climbed to number one on the UK Indie Chart. Elba expressed his excitement about continuing his partnership with UMPG, noting that a supportive and collaborative team environment is essential for nurturing the songwriting process.

Primary Wave Music has also announced key internal promotions, naming Peter Kurczaba as Vice President of Sync and Cleome Barber as Director of Creative A&R. Both executives will continue to be based at the company's Los Angeles headquarters. Kurczaba, who is approaching a decade with the company, praised the collaborative culture and the growth he has experienced under its leadership. These promotions underscore Primary Wave's strategic focus on strengthening its sync licensing and artist development arms to better serve its catalog of legendary artists.

Country artist Emily Rose has announced a new partnership with the non-profit Postpartum Care USA, timed with the release of a music video for her single “Don’t Talk About It.” The song provides an intimate and powerful window into the postpartum journey, shedding light on often-overlooked health challenges like mental health issues and nutrient depletion. Rose revealed she composed the song during her own struggle with postpartum depression, using music as a form of therapy to process her emotions. She expressed hope that this collaboration will raise awareness about available support systems, helping other new mothers avoid the profound isolation she experienced. This initiative is particularly relevant as postpartum mental health is increasingly recognized as a public health priority.

Finally, rising Nashville artist Abbie Callahan has signed a worldwide representation agreement with the esteemed agency WME. Callahan, who is managed by Twelve6 Entertainment, is enjoying a breakthrough year, having released her debut record and performed at major festivals including CMA Fest and Bonnaroo. She shared her profound gratitude for joining a team that fully supports her artistic direction. WME agent Carrie Creasey applauded Callahan's raw talent and unique persona, stating that her captivating voice and individual style set her apart in the industry and that WME is thrilled to help steer what is poised to be a remarkable career.