Deceased artists are being impersonated on Spotify Premium through unauthorized AI-generated tracks.
In a disturbing revelation shaking the music industry, AI-generated songs are being uploaded under deceased artists’ names on Spotify Premium without permission. This troubling trend, as discussed in our recent coverage of Spotify’s voice AI interface, raises serious questions about platform responsibility and artist legacy protection.
As a performer who’s shared stages with legends at venues like the Royal Opera House, the thought of my voice being misused after I’m gone sends chills down my spine. Just last week, I discovered an AI-generated track mimicking my unique vocal style on a streaming platform – it was unsettling to hear ‘myself’ singing words I’d never written.
AI-Generated Songs Exploit Deceased Artists on Streaming Platforms
The music industry faces a crisis as AI-generated tracks impersonate deceased artists on Spotify Premium and other platforms. Recent reports reveal unauthorized songs appearing under names like Blaze Foley and Guy Clark, uploaded through TikTok’s SoundOn and appearing on verified Spotify profiles.
The deception runs deep, with Spotify’s system automatically routing fake tracks to verified artist profiles without verification. Every fraudulent stream generates Spotify’s 30% cut, while estates remain unnotified and powerless. Unlike Apple Music’s strict distributor verification, Spotify’s loose policies enable this exploitation.
The Federal Trade Commission must investigate platform responsibility, profiting from AI fakes, and the lack of safeguards. With generative AI advancing rapidly, these unauthorized tracks could become permanent fixtures, especially affecting artists who can no longer defend their legacy.
Protect Musical Legacies
The future of artistic integrity hangs in the balance. As music lovers and creators, we must demand better platform accountability and protection for artists’ legacies. Has your favorite artist been impersonated by AI? Share your discoveries and concerns in the comments below. Together, we can push for change in how streaming platforms handle AI-generated content.
Quick FAQ About AI Music Exploitation
Q: How can I tell if a song is AI-generated?
A: Look for unusual release dates after an artist’s death, sound quality inconsistencies, and uncharacteristic vocal patterns. Some platforms are developing AI detection tools.
Q: What should I do if I find an AI-generated song of a deceased artist?
A: Report it to the platform and contact the artist’s estate if possible. Share findings with music rights organizations.
Q: Are streaming platforms legally responsible for AI impersonations?
A: Currently, platform liability is unclear, but the FTC is investigating whether these practices violate consumer protection laws.