Over 1,000 musicians, including Kate Bush, Damon Albern, and Annie Lennox, are speaking out against a proposal that would allow them to use copyrighted work without permission. To show their opposition, they have released a silent album in response to the UK government’s plan.
The recordings included in the album showcase dormant music studios and performance spaces, raising concerns about the potential impact of proposed changes to copyright laws. Key cultural figures have warned that their livelihoods are at risk if these changes are implemented.
Celebrities such as Paul McCartney, Elton John, Aba Bjorn Urveus, Julianne Moore, Val McDermid, and Richard Osman have been actively working to protect their work from being used without proper licensing by high-tech companies.
The album serves as a form of protest against the government’s proposal to grant AI companies access to creative professionals’ work through new copyright immunity measures. The artists behind the album are advocating for an “opt-out” option to protect their work from unauthorized use.
The album’s tracklist features recordings from over 1,000 artists who are credited as co-authors to send a message against legalizing music theft for the benefit of AI companies.
Profits from the album’s streaming services will support musician charities, highlighting the importance of protecting the rights of creative professionals.
The ongoing debate over the use of copyrighted works by AI companies underscores the need to balance technological advancements with protecting artists’ intellectual property.
The album’s release coincides with the closing of government consultations on changes to copyright law, prompting discussions about the future of creative industries in the digital age.
Source: www.theguardian.com
