The controversy surrounding the role of AI in the music industry has taken another turn as Spotify removes thousands of songs created by AI music start-up Boomy. According to sources, Universal Music Group (UMG) alerted streaming services of “suspicious streaming activity” on Boomy tracks, leading to Spotify removing 7% of the platform’s songs created by Boomy. The music streaming giant also commented that it is increasing its policing of the platform to prevent similar situations from happening again.
Boomy representatives stated that the platform is against all kinds of manipulation or artificial streaming. However, UMG CEO Lucian Grainge noted to investors that generative AI’s recent explosive development, if left unchecked, will increase the flow of unwanted content on platforms and create copyright issues.
Last month, UMG emailed streaming services, including Spotify, to block AI services from accessing music catalogs for training purposes. UMG has also sent requests to remove AI-generated songs from platforms.
While music industry giants fight to regulate AI-generated content, some artists are embracing its use. For instance, musician Grimes allowed creators to use her voice as a “guinea pig” for AI music creation, as long as they followed a set of rules and royalties were split.
The issue of AI-generated content poses a potential threat to the music industry, and while its use has been praised by some, it is clear that measures need to be put in place to regulate its creation and distribution. The situation with Boomy and Spotify is a reminder that the industry needs to be vigilant to avoid any potential artificial streaming or fraudulent activity.
