Tennessee has become the first state in the U.S. to introduce legislation aimed at protecting musicians and artists from unauthorized AI impersonations, marking a significant step in copyright and intellectual property law.
Main Points:
The Ensuring Likeness Voice and Image Security Act (ELVIS Act) updates Tennessee’s right of publicity law to include AI-specific protections, prohibiting the use of AI to mimic an artist’s voice without permission.
Governor Bill Lee signed the bill in a celebrated event at Robert’s Western World in Nashville, joined by country music stars Chris Janson and Luke Bryan, emphasizing the state’s commitment to its musical heritage and the protection of artists.
The legislation responds to the music industry’s concerns over AI’s rapid growth and its implications for copyright and intellectual property rights, amidst examples of unauthorized AI impersonations of artists like Drake and The Weeknd.
Summary:
On March 21, 2024, Tennessee set a precedent by being the first U.S. state to pass legislation aimed at protecting musicians and artists against unauthorized artificial intelligence impersonations, a move that has significant implications for the music industry and intellectual property rights. The newly signed Ensuring Likeness Voice and Image Security Act, or ELVIS Act, is an innovative update to the state’s existing right of publicity law, extending protections to include the digital realm where AI can mimic an artist’s voice or likeness without consent. This groundbreaking legislation, which goes into effect on July 1, reflects Tennessee’s deep-rooted musical heritage and its role as a bastion for artists ranging from country to blues.
Governor Bill Lee’s enactment of the ELVIS Act, amid the presence of country music luminaries at a Nashville honky tonk, underscores the state’s proactive stance in navigating the complexities introduced by AI in the creative industries. Tennessee, known for launching the careers of music legends and supporting a vibrant music scene, is now leading the charge in legal protections for artists in the digital age. The move comes in response to growing concerns within the music industry about AI’s impact on copyright and intellectual property, highlighted by incidents of AI-generated music impersonating well-known artists. This legislation is seen not only as a protective measure for artists but also as an encouragement for ethical use of AI technologies, balancing innovation with the rights of creators.
