Photo Credits: Raka Miftah
A coalition of major and independent record labels has proposed a new set of standards that would determine whether music created with generative artificial intelligence should be eligible for official music charts, marking the latest effort by the industry to establish guardrails around AI-assisted recordings.
The proposed framework, unveiled by companies including Sony Music, Universal Music Group, Warner Music Group, Mom+Pop Music, Partisan Records, Dirty Hit, Concord, BMG, Believe and HYBE, aims to distinguish between music that is primarily created by humans and works generated largely by artificial intelligence.
Under the guidelines, recordings would only qualify for chart consideration if they are deemed to be “substantially human-made.” The proposal also states that any AI tools used in the creative process must be properly authorised and lawful, the recording must comply with copyright and personality rights legislation, and it must not raise concerns around artificial streaming or chart manipulation. In addition, the use of AI should be clearly disclosed to listeners on digital streaming platforms in line with emerging industry labelling standards.
The coalition says the principles are designed to provide chart compilers and industry organisations with a consistent framework as AI-generated music becomes increasingly common across streaming services. According to the labels, the proposed standards would allow official charts to recognise responsible AI-assisted creativity while ensuring they continue to celebrate human artistic contribution.
While the proposed standards have been submitted for consideration, it remains unclear whether major chart publishers around the world will formally adopt them. If implemented, they would represent one of the most significant attempts yet to define how AI-assisted music fits within the traditional chart ecosystem.
