SAG-AFTRA, the union representing thousands of actors and other media professionals, has reached a tentative agreement with major record labels that includes protections for artists from the use of artificial intelligence (AI) technology. The union made the announcement on Friday.
The agreements with labels including Warner Music Group, Sony Music Entertainment, Universal Music Group and Disney Music Group were finalized last year by SAG-AFTRA and the Writers Guild of America (WGA) following a union strike. This is based on the protection agreed with the production studio. The agreement included groundbreaking AI protections for creators as this technology becomes an increasingly prevalent threat to the workforce.
The interim agreement will come into force immediately after ratification and will expire at the end of 2026.
Under the agreement, the terms “artist,” “singer” and “royalty artist” include only human beings, the union said. Artists have raised concerns about the harm that AI-generated music could do, saying it could impersonate human artists and impact the lives of creators.
The agreement also requires “clear and conspicuous consent” and “minimum compensation requirements” before the release of sound recordings that use digital reproductions of artists’ voices, the union said.
The deal also includes higher minimums, improved health and retirement benefits, and an increase in the percentage of streaming revenue covered by donations and other benefits, the union said in a statement.
The agreement was unanimously approved by the union’s executive committee and will be sent to members for ratification.
“This agreement ensures that our members are protected. SAG-AFTRA believes that while technology can enhance the creative process, the essence of music must always be rooted in authentic human expression and experience.” We remain steadfast in our belief that this will not happen,” said Duncan Crabtree-Ireland, SAG-AFTRA National Executive Director and Chief Negotiator. statement.
“We look forward to working with our industry partners to foster an environment where innovation enhances, rather than diminishes, the unique value of each artist’s contribution to our rich cultural tapestry.”
The Record Label Bargaining Committee said in a statement that the group is “pleased to reach this agreement with SAG-AFTRA and continue our strong partnership as we enter an exciting and fast-moving new era for music and artists.”
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