Navigating AI-Generated Music and Distribution: Challenges, Policies, and Remedies for Artists

The rise of AI-generated music tools like Suno AI has opened new creative avenues for artists. These platforms allow creators to produce music, lyrics, and even vocal performances without traditional recording setups.

However, this technological leap also comes with challenges, particularly when it comes to distributing and monetizing AI-generated music on major platforms. Recently, I faced such a challenge: two of my songs, created with lyrics I wrote and music generated using Suno AI, were rejected by a leading music distributor. Despite Suno AI’s assurance that their platform allows users to monetize AI-generated creations, the distributor’s rejection highlights a gap in understanding and policy alignment between AI platforms and distribution services.

This article aims to shed light on the policies of top music distributors regarding AI-generated content, the conflicts that arise with AI tools, and practical remedies for artists navigating this complex landscape.

Distributor Policies on AI-Generated Music

1. DistroKid DistroKid permits AI-generated music as long as the uploader owns or has explicit rights to all components of the track, including music, lyrics, and vocals. However, the platform emphasizes the need for original content and may reject submissions that risk copyright infringement.
2. SoundCloud SoundCloud allows AI-generated content but requires users to ensure their work complies with copyright laws. Any resemblance to existing works or disputes over ownership can result in removal.
3. CD Baby CD Baby accepts AI-generated music under the condition that the artist has full ownership or appropriate licenses for all elements of the track. They stress intellectual property compliance to avoid legal issues.
4. TuneCore and Others Similar policies apply across platforms like TuneCore, Amuse, and others. The recurring theme is ownership and copyright compliance, with distributors erring on the side of caution when it comes to AI-generated works.

Conflict with AI Generators Like Suno AI

Suno AI’s policy asserts that users own and can monetize their creations. While this is empowering for artists, the core issue lies in the training datasets used by AI models. Many AI platforms train on copyrighted material without explicit licenses, raising questions about whether their outputs are truly free from third-party claims. Distributors, wary of legal repercussions, may reject AI-generated tracks to avoid potential disputes, regardless of the creator’s intent or documentation.

Remedies for Artists

1. Clarify Ownership and Rights
   • Obtain a clear statement from the AI platform (e.g., Suno AI) confirming your ownership and right to monetize the generated content.
   • Ensure the AI platform’s training data does not infringe on existing copyrights or provides explicit licenses for commercial use.
2. Communicate with Distributors
   • Request detailed feedback on why your track was rejected.
   • Provide supporting documentation, including a license or statement from the AI tool, and resubmit your tracks.
3. Modify Content
   • Edit your AI-generated music or vocals to make them more distinct and reduce the likelihood of resemblance to existing works.
4. Consider Alternative Distribution Channels
   • Platforms like Bandcamp or Patreon often provide more flexibility for AI-generated content.
   • Self-distribution through your own website or social media channels can also be effective for reaching audiences directly.
5. Stay Informed on Legal Developments
   • Follow industry updates and legal cases involving AI-generated music. Precedents set in these cases will shape future policies and opportunities.
6. Explore Legal Protections
   • Register your songs with copyright offices or performance rights organizations to strengthen your ownership claims.
   • Consult a legal expert to ensure compliance and mitigate risks.

Preventing Future Rejections

• Clearly label your submissions with details of your creative process, including your role and the tools used (e.g., “Lyrics by [Your Name], music and vocals generated using Suno AI”).
• Tailor your creations to align with distributor policies, avoiding elements that might trigger copyright concerns.

Conclusion

The intersection of AI-generated music and traditional distribution models is still evolving. While AI tools like Suno AI empower artists, navigating distributor policies requires careful planning and documentation. By understanding the requirements, proactively addressing potential conflicts, and staying informed on legal developments, artists can effectively distribute and monetize their AI-generated creations. The road may be challenging, but with persistence and adaptation, the opportunities are boundless.