1,000 Artists in AI Protest Release Silent Album
On February 25, 2025, over 1,000 British musicians, including prominent artists such as Kate Bush, Damon Albarn, and Annie Lennox, released a silent album titled “Is This What We Want?” as a protest against the UK government’s proposed changes to copyright law. These changes would allow technology companies to use copyrighted material to train artificial intelligence (AI) models without obtaining permission from the creators, unless copyright holders actively opt out.
Background to the Protest
The UK government’s proposal would allow AI developers to use online content, including music, art, articles, and photographs, to train their models without compensating the original creators. Critics argue that requiring creators to “opt out” is impractical and unfair. Artists claim that this undermines the principles of copyright and threatens their livelihoods.
The Silent Album: Is This What We Want?
The album consists of 12 silent tracks, recorded in empty studios and concert venues. Each track title contributes to a message: “The British Government Must Not Legalise Music Theft To Benefit AI Companies.” The project was initiated by British composer Ed Newton-Rex, who previously worked in the AI industry. He expressed concern that the government’s proposal would grant AI companies free access to musicians’ life’s work without compensation, potentially allowing AI-generated music to compete with the original artists.
Reactions from the Music Industry
In addition to the aforementioned artists, other prominent musicians such as Paul McCartney, Elton John, and Hans Zimmer have voiced their opposition to the proposed legal changes. They warn that such changes could have devastating consequences for the UK’s creative sector, which contributed £126 billion to the economy in 2023. The artists emphasize that while AI development is important, it should not come at the expense of creators’ rights and earnings.
The Government’s Position
The UK government argues that the current copyright system hinders the potential of both the creative industries and the AI sector. They are therefore conducting a consultation to find a balance that benefits both AI developers and rights holders. A government spokesperson stated that no final decision has been made and that they are striving for a solution that allows both sectors to thrive.
Availability and Charity
The album “Is This What We Want?” is available on multiple streaming platforms, including Spotify. All proceeds from the album will be donated to the charity Help Musicians, which supports musicians throughout their careers and into retirement.
