Major and indie record labels propose rules for AI tracks on the music charts

All three major record companies and an assortment of independent labels and distributors have proposed a shared set of principles governing when AI-generated recordings should be eligible for the music charts, Complete Music Update reported. The basic rule: AI-assisted tracks could still chart, but fully AI-generated tracks could not, a distinction the group says will let charts "accommodate appropriate use of AI in the creative process whilst remaining an authentic celebration of human artistry."

Where exactly to draw that line has been a live debate across the industry, and the new principles define an AI-assisted track simply as one that is "substantially human made." Beyond that basic test, the proposal adds several other conditions: chart-eligible tracks must comply with copyright law, avoid infringing personality rights, and show no signs of stream manipulation. Any AI tools used in making the track must also be "properly authorised and lawful," and their use must be publicly disclosed.

That authorization requirement is a significant ask in practice, since it would effectively limit chart-eligible artists to AI tools that are fully licensed by the music industry, currently a small share of the AI music tools on the market. A related rule would bar any track that breaches the terms of the AI platform used to make it, which would affect music generated on AI platforms that operate as closed systems and later leaks onto mainstream streaming services.

Whether individual chart compilers around the world adopt these principles remains to be seen, though many are connected to or dependent on the record industry that just proposed them. The labels behind the plan also say the same framework could extend to how gold and platinum certifications get awarded, which would widen its reach well beyond the charts themselves.

The indie signatories backing the plan alongside Universal Music, Sony Music and Warner Music include Believe, BMG, Concord, Dirty Hit, Glassnote Records, HYBE Corp, Mom+Pop Music and Partisan Records. The proposal follows other recent moves toward AI transparency across the business, including New EU rules requiring AI content labels take effect for the music business and Luminate survey finds most people want AI disclosed in music, TV and games.