YouTube is reportedly in talks with major record labels to expand its AI-generated music capabilities. The video platform is offering lump sum payments to Universal Music Group, Sony Music Entertainment, and Warner Records in exchange for licensing rights to train AI music tools.
This move follows YouTube’s 2023 launch of Dream Track, a feature that creates music in the style of specific artists. While YouTube claims it’s not expanding Dream Track itself, it aims to license music from dozens of artists for new AI tools planned for later this year.
The proposal faces potential resistance from the music industry. Many artists and labels have expressed concerns about AI’s impact on human creativity and copyright. Recently, the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) filed lawsuits against two AI music companies for alleged copyright infringement.
As negotiations continue, the outcome could significantly influence the future of AI in music production and artist rights in the digital age.
