In a historic move, entertainment industry workers have successfully negotiated a groundbreaking agreement with top record labels such as Warner Music Group and Sony Music Entertainment. This preliminary agreement aims to ensure higher minimum wages and safeguards against the potentially disruptive effects of artificial intelligence (AI) in the music industry.

According to a statement released on the official website of the Screen Actors Guild-American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA), the "Sound Recordings Agreement" has been reached for the period spanning from 2021 to 2026. This agreement, which received unanimous approval from SAG-AFTRA's executive committee, represents a significant milestone for the approximately 160,000 actors and media personnel affiliated with the union.

As the music industry grapples with the rise of songs generated by AI, which allow internet users to easily replicate the voices of artists without their permission, the proposed agreement with record labels includes provisions mandating consent and compensation before releasing songs featuring digital replicas of artists' voices.

Under the terms of the agreement, the definitions of "artist," "singer," and "royalty artist" explicitly refer to human performers. Moreover, the agreement encompasses improvements in health and retirement benefits, as well as an expansion in the portion of streaming revenue subject to contributions.

This development comes at a critical juncture as AI technology increasingly becomes a focal point of concern in the entertainment sector. Throughout 2023, discussions between SAG-AFTRA and major studios were dominated by the implications of AI technology. Following months of strikes and negotiations, a contract agreement was finally reached in November, marking a significant victory for industry workers.

Duncan Crabtree-Ireland, the national executive director and chief negotiator of SAG-AFTRA, emphasized the importance of preserving the authenticity of human expression in music: "This agreement ensures that our members are protected. While technology can enhance the creative process, the essence of music must always be rooted in genuine human expression and experience."

In addition to addressing concerns related to AI in the music industry, SAG-AFTRA has also taken proactive steps in other entertainment sectors. In January, the union reached an agreement with Replica Studios, an AI voice technology company, regarding the use of AI voices in video games. This agreement grants performers the right to consent and negotiate with the AI company, as well as the power to opt out of the "continued use" of their voices in "new projects."

While AI holds immense potential in various aspects of filmmaking, including virtual filmmaking with lifelike sets and cost efficiency, the protection deal negotiated by SAG-AFTRA aims to ensure fair credit for all industry contributors. Despite the transformative power of AI, it is crucial to uphold the rights and interests of human performers and creators in the entertainment industry.