The Screen Actors Guild-American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA) has reached a tentative multi-year agreement with major record labels on a new sound recordings deal.
The agreement, which succeeds the National Code of Fair Practice for Sound Recordings and covers the period from January 1, 2021, to December 31, 2026, includes Warner Music Group, Sony Music Entertainment, Universal Music Group, and Disney Music Group, according to a press release on Friday (April 12).
Though it still requires ratification by SAG-AFTRA members, the deal is a significant development for recording artists as it establishes safeguards for what the union calls “ethical and responsible treatment” in the use of artificial intelligence technology.
The deal requires “clear and conspicuous consent” for the use of an artist’s voice in AI-generated content, along with minimum compensation levels, and details of the intended use of the AI replica.
SAG-AFTRA represents about 160,000 actors, announcers, broadcast journalists, dancers, DJs, news writers, news editors, program hosts, puppeteers, recording artists, singers, stunt performers, voiceover artists, influencers and other entertainment and media professionals. It has national offices in Los Angeles and New York and local offices across the US.
The agreement between the guild and the major record labels comes six years after they renewed their agreement on sound recordings.
“SAG-AFTRA stands firm in the belief that while technology can enhance the creative process, the essence of music must always be rooted in genuine human expression and experience.”
Duncan Crabtree-Ireland, SAG-AFTRA
For the first time, the updated agreement establishes “collective bargaining guardrails” protecting singers and recording artists from unethical or irresponsible exploitation of their voices through AI technology.
Beyond the AI protections, the agreement also offers a range of benefits for artists including increased minimum payments, improved health and retirement benefits, and an increase in the percentage of streaming revenue directed towards artist contributions.
“It is a testament to our mutual unwavering commitment to work together to safeguard the rights, dignity and creative freedom of our members,” said Duncan Crabtree-Ireland, SAG-AFTRA National Executive Director & Chief Negotiator.
“This agreement ensures that our members are protected. SAG-AFTRA stands firm in the belief that while technology can enhance the creative process, the essence of music must always be rooted in genuine human expression and experience.”
“We are pleased to reach this agreement with SAG-AFTRA and continue our strong partnership as we enter this exciting and fast-moving new era for music and artists.”
Record Label Negotiating Committee
“We look forward to working alongside our industry partners to foster an environment where innovation serves to elevate, not diminish, the unique value of each artist’s contribution to our rich cultural tapestry,” Crabtree-Ireland added.
The Record Label Negotiating Committee added, “We are pleased to reach this agreement with SAG-AFTRA and continue our strong partnership as we enter this exciting and fast-moving new era for music and artists.
“Together, we’ll chart a successful course forward, embracing new opportunities and facing our common challenges, strengthened by our shared values and commitment to human artistry.”
The agreement comes at a time when AI technology is increasingly being used in music production, raising concerns among artists about potential job displacement and the unauthorized use of their voices. This deal suggests a growing recognition of the need to protect artists in the evolving music industry landscape.
Music Business Worldwide
