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British musicians release a silent album to protest plans to let AI use their work

Feb 25, 2025 - financialpost.com
British musicians have released a silent album titled “Is This What We Want?” to protest proposed changes to U.K. artificial intelligence laws that could allow tech firms to use copyrighted material for AI training without explicit permission from creators. The album, featuring contributions from over 1,000 artists including Kate Bush and Damon Albarn, aims to highlight the potential erosion of creative control and the impact on Britain's creative industries. The protest is supported by prominent musicians like Elton John and Paul McCartney, and profits will go to the charity Help Musicians.

The U.K. government is consulting on how copyright law can balance creators' control and AI developers' access to content. Critics argue the proposal could harm musicians by allowing AI companies to exploit their work. The Creative Rights in AI Coalition, comprising publishers and media companies, opposes weakening copyright protections. The consultation period ends soon, and several newspapers have publicly criticized the government's approach, urging protection for the creative industries.

Key takeaways:

  • British musicians released a silent album titled "Is This What We Want?" to protest proposed changes to AI laws that could erode creative control.
  • The U.K. government is considering allowing tech firms to use copyrighted material for AI training unless creators opt out.
  • The protest album features recordings of empty studios and performance spaces, with profits going to the charity Help Musicians.
  • Critics, including Elton John and Paul McCartney, argue that the proposal could harm Britain's creative industries and benefit AI companies at the expense of artists.
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