Your Daily Music Industry Briefing

Coalition Unveils Standardized AI Labeling System and Warns Against EU Royalty Proposal

• A broad coalition of music industry organizations, including the RIAA, IFPI, The Recording Academy, SAG-AFTRA, and others, has introduced a new voluntary labeling system for AI-generated music. Announced on July 12, 2026, the system proposes two labels: "AI-Generated" for tracks created entirely by AI and "AI-Assisted" for music where AI is used as a creative tool alongside human artists. This initiative aims to provide transparency for listeners and establish a consistent standard for global adoption by streaming services and distributors.

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• The push for transparency comes as AI-generated music rapidly increases, with Deezer reporting that 44% of all new tracks delivered to its platform were created with AI, and Apple Music noting over one-third of new uploads are entirely AI-generated. Despite 97% of listeners being unable to differentiate AI songs from human-made ones in a Deezer/Ipsos study, 80% expressed a desire for clear labeling of fully AI tracks.

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• Separately, a coalition of major music industry organizations is urging the U.S. Trade Representative to oppose a European Commission proposal that could jeopardize nearly $300 million in annual royalties for American artists and rights holders. The proposed change risks reducing or eliminating payments from 21 of the EU's 27 member states that currently compensate American artists under national treatment rules.

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