Bandcamp prohibits music made ‘wholly or in substantial part’ by AI (www.engadget.com)

Bandcamp has announced a ban on music that is "wholly or in substantial part" created by generative AI, addressing concerns over the influx of AI-generated content in the music industry. The platform emphasized its commitment to preserving the human element in music, stating, "the human connection found through music is a vital part of our society and culture." Users will now have tools to report suspected AI-generated music, reinforcing Bandcamp's stance against the rise of what many refer to as "AI slop." This makes Bandcamp a pioneer among music platforms in establishing a clear policy against AI-generated music, contrasting with slower responses from rivals like Spotify and Deezer. The significance of this decision lies in its potential impact on the music landscape, as Bandcamp seeks to maintain artistic integrity amid a growing concern over the authenticity of music content. The platform's proactive approach comes as AI-generated songs flood streaming services, with Deezer reporting 50,000 such uploads daily. Bandcamp's policies not only protect artists from impersonation and dilution of their work but also align with the company's history of supporting musicians through initiatives like Bandcamp Fridays, allowing artists to keep 100% of their revenue. This move could set a precedent for other music platforms grappling with the implications of AI in creative fields.