ASCAP, BMI & SOCAN to Accept Registrations of Partially AI-Generated Music

ASCAP, BMI and SOCAN have all adopted policies to accept registrations of musical compositions partially generated using artificial intelligence (AI) tools, the PROs jointly announced Tuesday (Oct. 28), while noting that they will continue to reject registrations of fully AI-generated works.

According to a press release, all three PROs define a partially AI-generated musical work as one fusing elements of AI-generated musical content with elements of human authorship. All of these works will be included in the repertoires licensed by each of the societies.

Also in the release, the three PROS reiterated their stance that training AI technologies on copyright musical works without permission, credit or compensation is theft — adding that all three societies have continually advocated for strong copyright laws and defended music creators amid debates over AI policies in the U.S. and Canada. They additionally note that they have endorsed legislation and supported lawsuits to protect creators against the illegal use of their works to train AI, among other things.

“Songwriters and composers have always experimented with innovative tools as part of their creative process, and AI is no exception,” said Elizabeth Matthews, CEO of ASCAP, in a statement. “We are clarifying our registration policy to now welcome partially AI-generated musical works because we believe AI can be a powerful tool for our members, as long as the law puts humans first and technology companies play fair and respect the rights of creators.”

“This is an important first step in protecting human creativity as AI technologies evolve, while supporting the songwriters and composers who choose to use AI as a tool to enhance their creative process,” added Mike O’Neill, president & CEO of BMI. “All music creators will benefit from this aligned approach to the registration of partial AI-works that appropriately values creators’ contributions and ensures they are paid properly.”

Added Jennifer Brown, CEO of SOCAN: “This alignment creates a legal and ethical path forward for AI in music. It recognizes that music creators are embracing new tools, while reinforcing our commitment to what matters most: respect for their work and the protection of human creativity. The future of music can embrace AI and still remain deeply human.”