YouTube Music and Deezer introduce AI content labels
YouTube Music is rolling out a labeling system to identify generative AI in music, while Deezer launches a filter to exclude such tracks. These moves follow similar disclosure initiatives by Apple Music and Spotify.
YouTube Music announced Wednesday the rollout of a labeling system aimed at improving transparency around songs created with the help of generative AI. The labels appear on player pages and extend to the main YouTube app, allowing listeners to identify tracks created with AI assistance in composition or vocals. Clicking a label reveals specific AI roles, with partners able to declare work as 'Fully Gen AI,' 'Partly Gen AI,' or 'No Gen AI.' The policy focuses on disclosure rather than restriction, meaning AI involvement does not disqualify tracks from monetization. Simultaneously, Deezer is launching a feature that allows users to filter out AI-generated music entirely. These moves follow existing disclosure requirements on distribution platforms like DistroKid and Lander, where artists must declare AI usage in metadata. Industry participants note that while AI music generation has existed for years, the sheer volume of content on streaming platforms has necessitated these mechanisms to improve user experience. YouTube also continues experimenting with AI creation tools like DreamTrack, which generates soundtracks using AI versions of participating artists' voices.