Bandcamp has implemented a new policy that prohibits the publication of content that is generated wholly or partially by artificial intelligence (AI). This decision is announced with the aim of preventing the use of AI tools to imitate other artists or styles, a practice that has sparked controversy in the music industry. Bandcamp, known as one of the largest online music marketplaces, aims to protect artistic authenticity and promote genuine musical creation.
Only big tech companies want AI
Unlike Bandcamp, other platforms like Spotify and Apple Music maintain more permissive stances towards AI-generated music. Spotify, for example, has announced that it is working on disclosing the use of AI in its catalog, although it has not implemented a strict ban similar to that of Bandcamp. Apple Music also prohibits AI-generated impersonations, although its policy has been less clear regarding other types of content.
The Bandcamp measure comes in a context where there has been a notable increase in the creation of low-quality music generated by AI, exemplified by cases like the fictional band The Velvet Sundown. This group, which never existed in reality, reached a peak of 500,000 monthly listeners, a figure that reflects public interest, despite their music being criticized for its lack of originality and authenticity.
Bandcamp’s decision has been well received in the artistic community, while Spotify has faced criticism for its low royalties and a growing saturation of AI-generated music on its platform. The discussion about the use of artificial intelligence in music also extends to the realm of video games, where figures like Tim Sweeney have raised concerns about the excessive use of AI impacting the creativity and quality of final products.
