Sony Music Group Issues Warning Letters To 700 Tech Firms And Streaming Services

In a bold move, Sony Music Group (SMG) has initiated a mass mailing campaign targeting approximately 700 AI developers and music streaming services. The objective? To assertively declare that SMG is opting out of allowing its content to be utilized in the training of AI systems without explicit permission.

According to a letter obtained by MBW, SMG is alleging potential violations of its copyrights by these entities, citing concerns over unauthorized usage of SMG content for the development and commercialization of AI technology. The letter demands transparency from recipients regarding any unauthorized use of SMG content and requests information on how such content was accessed and utilized.

This action follows a public declaration by SMG, published on the websites of Sony Music Entertainment and Sony Music Publishing, explicitly prohibiting text and data mining, web scraping, or similar activities on their content without prior authorization. This encompasses a wide range of materials including musical compositions, lyrics, audio and visual recordings, artwork, and data, for any purpose related to AI system development.

The timing of this maneuver coincides with the European Union's recent passing of the AI Act, which imposes regulations on AI developers, including requirements for disclosure of materials used in training AI models and obtaining permission for copyrighted content usage.

Notably, Sony's approach stands in contrast to some industry groups' preferences for an "opt-in" model, arguing that an "opt-out" framework shifts the burden away from users and undermines copyright protections.

While Sony is not entirely opposed to AI technology, evidenced by recent hires and collaborations involving AI tools, the company is adamant about safeguarding the rights of artists and creators amidst the evolving landscape of technology and creativity.

Stay tuned for further developments as Sony Music Group's stance reverberates through the AI and music industries.