In a recent move, Spotify has taken action against AI-generated music with illegitimate streams, specifically targeting tracks created by Boomy, an application that uses artificial intelligence to generate entire songs. The company’s dedication to eradicating artificial streaming and protecting royalty payouts for genuine artists has been emphasised in a statement to Music Business Worldwide.
Spotify stated, “Artificial streaming is a longstanding, industry-wide issue that we are working to stamp out across our service. When we identify or are alerted to potential cases of stream manipulation, we mitigate their impact by taking action that may include the removal of streaming numbers and the withholding of royalties. This allows us to protect royalty payouts for honest, hardworking artists.”
Although there is no evidence implicating Boomy in the creation of fake streams, the company has made it clear that they oppose any form of manipulation or artificial streaming. Boomy is actively collaborating with industry partners to address this issue and reinstate the distribution of Boomy artist content on the Spotify platform.
The conversation around AI-generated music has gained momentum recently, with notable producer Timbaland sharing a track he created using AI-generated vocals from the late Notorious B.I.G. on his social media accounts. He expressed his excitement about finally having the opportunity to work with Biggie, even though it was through AI technology.
Monetised platforms that stream AI-generated content have faced scrutiny from major players in the music industry, like Universal Music, which questioned the side of history these platforms wish to be on. Popular AI-generated songs have featured the voices of renowned artists like The Notorious B.I.G., Drake, Michael Jackson, Kanye West, and The Weekend.
Spotify’s takedown of AI-generated songs with fake streams is a clear signal that the platform is committed to addressing the issue of artificial streaming. Boomy, the AI-based programme responsible for creating over 14.5 million tracks, which accounts for approximately 13.9% of the world’s recorded music, has seen at least six of its songs removed from two playlists as a result of Spotify’s crackdown.
The ongoing battle against illegitimate streaming aims to preserve the integrity of the music industry and protect the earnings of authentic, hardworking artists.
