1,000 artists release ‘silent’ album to protest UK copyright sell-out to AI

The U.K. government is moving forward with plans to attract more AI companies to the region by proposing changes to copyright law. These changes would allow developers to train AI models on artists’ content on the internet without permission or payment, unless creators actively “opt out.” However, not everyone is in agreement with these plans.

Recently, a group of 1,000 musicians released a “silent album” in protest of the proposed changes. Titled “Is This What We Want?” the album features tracks from artists like Kate Bush, Imogen Heap, and Max Richter. It also includes co-writing credits from well-known names such as Annie Lennox, Damon Albarn, and Hans Zimmer. Instead of music, the album contains recordings of empty studios and performance spaces to symbolize the potential impact of the copyright law changes.

The titles of the 12 tracks in the album spell out a clear message: “The British government must not legalize music theft to benefit AI companies.” This release is part of a larger movement in the U.K. to address concerns about how copyright is handled in AI training, with similar protests happening in other countries as well.

Ed Newton-Rex, the organizer of the project, has been leading a campaign against AI training without proper licensing. A petition he initiated has garnered support from over 47,000 creatives, including writers, visual artists, and actors. Newton-Rex’s background as a composer and tech entrepreneur gives him a unique perspective on the issue.

The album’s launch coincides with the upcoming changes to copyright law in the U.K., which would require artists to actively opt out if they do not want their work used for AI training. Newton-Rex believes this approach puts artists in a difficult position, as there is no clear method for opting out or monitoring the use of their material in AI systems.

To combat this, artists are exploring other markets with better protections for their work. Hewitt Jones, for example, is considering distributing his music in Switzerland. The internet’s evolving landscape poses challenges for artists who have been encouraged to share their work online for exposure, only to face issues with AI companies and governments using their content without consent.

The album will be available on music platforms soon, with any proceeds going to the charity Help Musicians. This initiative aims to raise awareness about the importance of protecting artists’ rights in the digital age.