Photo Credit: Jonathan Cooper

IFPI announces a new set of three principles governing the eligibility of recordings developed with generative AI for official music chart rankings.

On July 30, IFPI, the organization representing the recording industry worldwide, announced the rollout of a new set of principles to determine the eligibility of recordings developed with the use of generative AI for inclusion in official music charts.

The framework aims to “establish a clear boundary” between human-led creativity and works that are either “purely synthetic” or generated by unauthorized AI models. It will also help ensure that tracks with a fraudulently boosted stream count are not recognized in official rankings.

Under the new guidelines, a recording developed using AI will only qualify for chart inclusion if it meets three core criteria:

  1. The AI service used is properly authorized and lawful
  2. The track is substantially human made
  3. The track does not raise stream or chart manipulation concerns

A coalition of music companies outlined such guidelines earlier last week, including Sony Music, Universal Music Group, and Warner Music Group. Now, IFPI says these principles will enable official charts to accommodate “appropriate use of AI in the creative process” while remaining an “authentic celebration of human artistry.”

The principles were developed in consultation with IFPI’s global member companies and are designed to provide a unified roadmap for official chart compilers, industry bodies, and affiliated stakeholders.

IFPI will roll out the set of initial principles to the official charts it directly manages across Latin America, the Middle East, Africa, and Southeast Asia, while working with its national group network worldwide to expand the program across an additional 20-plus official charts organizations.

“Official music charts do more than just track sales; they celebrate human artistry and endeavor. As fans, we want to recognize the achievements of the artists creating the music we love, and it’s right that charts continue to showcase music with human creativity at its heart,” said Victoria Oakley, CEO of IFPI.

Tracks created using genAI systems have been flooding streaming services, and many of these have been trained on artists’ music without authorization. To combat this, record companies are pushing for the development and licensing of AI music services that respect the rights of music creators.

“When properly licensed and authorized, AI provides exciting opportunities to enhance the creative toolkit. These principles provide a pathway for that innovation, while ensuring we don’t include tracks generated by systems that are ripping off artists and their music,” Oakley added.

“AI is evolving rapidly, and it’s critical that the music community takes the lead on how to ensure technology and human artistry grow together responsibly.”