Music streaming has transformed how we discover and enjoy songs, but the rise of artificial intelligence is shaking up the industry in unexpected ways. Deezer, a Paris-based music streaming service, is taking a bold step to address a growing concern: the surge of AI-generated music and the potential for streaming fraud.
Imagine opening your favorite playlist and seeing a label that reads “AI-generated content.” That’s the new reality for Deezer users, as the platform begins flagging albums containing songs created with AI tools. This move isn’t just about transparency—it’s a direct response to a wave of music uploads designed to game the system and siphon royalties away from genuine artists.
The Challenge of AI-Generated Music
Deezer’s CEO, Alexis Lanternier, highlights a startling trend: nearly 18% of daily song uploads are now fully AI-generated, up from 10% just three months ago. While these tracks currently make up only about 0.5% of total streams, the company suspects that most listens come from bots or so-called “streaming farms,” not real fans. The goal? To collect royalties through sheer volume, not musical merit.
This isn’t just a Deezer problem. The entire music industry is grappling with the implications of generative AI, which can churn out thousands of songs at the click of a button. While AI can be a powerful creative tool, it also raises tough questions about copyright, artist compensation, and the authenticity of music.
How Deezer Is Fighting Back
To tackle the issue, Deezer has developed sophisticated AI detection tools. These systems analyze the unique patterns and signals in songs, comparing them to outputs from popular AI music generators. The technology is constantly updated, as AI-generated music evolves rapidly. In a sense, Deezer is fighting AI with AI—using the same technology that creates the problem to help solve it.
If a song is flagged as being used for stream manipulation, Deezer will cut off its royalty payments. This sends a clear message: the platform supports innovation, but not at the expense of fairness and artist rights.
What This Means for Listeners and Artists
For listeners, the new labels offer greater transparency. You’ll know when a song or album was created with the help of AI, allowing you to make more informed choices about what you listen to and support. For artists and songwriters, it’s a step toward safeguarding their work and ensuring they’re compensated fairly.
The move also comes amid a flurry of legal battles. Major record labels are suing AI music generators like Suno and Udio for copyright infringement, alleging that these tools exploit the work of legendary artists. Meanwhile, authorities in the U.S. have charged individuals with using AI and bots to fraudulently earn millions in streaming royalties.
Actionable Takeaways
- If you’re an artist, stay informed about how your music is distributed and consider working with reputable labels or distributors.
- As a listener, look for the new AI-generated content labels and support artists whose work you value.
- For industry professionals, keep an eye on evolving AI detection tools and legal developments to protect your interests.
Summary of Key Points
- Deezer is flagging AI-generated songs to combat streaming fraud and protect artists.
- AI-generated music uploads are rapidly increasing, with most streams suspected to be from bots.
- Deezer uses advanced AI detection tools to identify and label AI-created tracks.
- Songs used for fraudulent streaming will be denied royalty payments.
- The music industry is facing legal and ethical challenges as AI reshapes how music is created and consumed.