More creators now worried about AI music competing with human-created music

Two years on since PRS’ survey into the impact of AI on music, concern levels have only risen around the topic, with four in five (79%) music creators agreeing that they are worried about AI-generated music competing with human-created music (+5 percentage points compared to 2023 levels), according to a new PRS for Music survey.

Greater understanding is leading to greater concern. More than 70% of creators now understand how AI music creation works, an increase of 19 percentage points since 2023.

Around three quarters (76%) agree that AI has the potential to negatively affect their livelihoods, a 7% rise since 2023, with the vast majority arguing that AI tools should be transparent around how they generate AI music (92%).

The creative industries contribute over £120 billion to the UK economy each year. PRS for Music urges policymakers to prioritise a sustainable regulatory framework for AI, safeguarding IP so that creators can earn a living from their work and reinvest in future creative endeavours.

John Mottram, Chief Strategy Officer at PRS for Music said: “It is clear why creators are concerned. Tech firms train models on copyright works without permission or payment building commercial services designed to compete with or replace the human creators.

“Music creators are already using AI to find new ways to enhance their creativity, but it is up to policymakers to make sure that livelihoods are protected, not diminished to cater to big tech.

“We will continue to champion the value of songwriters’ and composers’ works and advocate for a future where innovation and artistry can thrive together.”