AI-Generated Music Threatens Musicians' Livelihoods
Published on 7.29.25
Music industry experts Yung Spielburg and Mathieu Gendreau warn that the rise of AI-generated music poses a significant threat to musicians' livelihoods. According to Spielburg, "active" listeners who care about what artists convey will ultimately prevail over AI-generated tunes, but those who listen passively while doing mundane tasks may not be able to distinguish between human and synthetic music. Gendreau predicts that if listeners can't tell the difference, publishers and labels will opt for AI-made bands that don't earn royalties, making it harder for musicians to make a living. Music streaming platforms are already filling playlists with anonymous mood music, while University of Rochester School of Music professor Dennis DeSantis notes that AI-generated soundtracks have become cost-saving options in various venues, including movies and advertisements.