ISLAMABAD – Nearly a dozen of the world’s largest record companies, including Universal Music Group, Sony Music and Warner Music Group, have called on global music chart providers to introduce stricter eligibility rules for AI-generated songs.
The companies said music charts should only recognise AI-assisted tracks if the use of artificial intelligence is lawful, properly authorised, largely driven by human creativity and free from streaming fraud or chart manipulation.
Under the proposed framework, songs created primarily by human artists while using AI as a supporting tool would remain eligible. However, tracks generated through unauthorised AI systems or those linked to fraudulent streaming activity would not qualify for chart rankings.
Read more: Today’s currency exchange rates in Pakistan – July 29, 2026
Copyright concerns remain central
The record companies argued that many AI music generation tools have been trained using artists’ copyrighted work without permission.
In a joint statement issued on Wednesday, the companies said tracks produced through unauthorised AI systems have increasingly appeared on streaming platforms, raising concerns over copyright infringement and fraudulent attempts to boost streaming numbers.
They added that record labels are working to support licensed AI music technologies that respect the rights of musicians and songwriters while discouraging unauthorised AI-generated content from gaining industry recognition.
AI music remains under legal scrutiny
Although AI-generated music has yet to dominate mainstream music charts, several high-profile examples have emerged. However, digital sales charts require relatively few purchases compared to streaming charts, making such appearances easier to achieve.
The issue comes as major record labels continue both investing in and challenging AI technology.
Universal Music Group, Sony Music and Warner Music Group have announced partnerships with technology companies including Nvidia, Spotify and Stability AI to develop licensed AI music tools. At the same time, they have pursued legal action against AI music generators accused of using copyrighted material without authorisation.
Read more: The hidden cost of electricity theft in Pakistan that everyone pays
Universal settled its legal dispute with Udio last year, while Warner reached agreements with both Suno and Udio. Sony has not yet announced similar settlements.
The latest proposal follows a recent initiative by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) and the International Federation of the Phonographic Industry (IFPI), which called on streaming platforms to clearly identify AI-generated music.
The organisations suggested a system similar to existing “explicit content” labels, allowing listeners to easily recognise songs created with artificial intelligence.
Read more: Scope of Valorant in Pakistan and its Esports growth
Key points:
- Major record labels are urging global music chart providers to adopt stricter rules for AI-generated songs.
- The proposed framework would allow AI-assisted music only if it is lawfully created, substantially human-made and free from streaming fraud.
- Universal Music Group, Sony Music and Warner Music Group are among nearly a dozen companies backing the proposal.
- The move comes as record labels continue legal action against AI music companies accused of using copyrighted works without permission.
- Industry bodies are also pushing streaming platforms to introduce clear labels for AI-generated music.
