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The Flood of AI Music and the Obscuring of CC Works
In recent years, advances in AI-generated music technology have led to an explosion of AI-created tracks flooding the internet. As a result, original Creative Commons (CC) works are increasingly buried and have fewer opportunities to be discovered. Moreover, as AI systems use CC works as training data, there is growing concern that the value of original works and opportunities for creators to earn rewards are further diminishing.
Abuse of Audio Fingerprinting and Chilling Effects
The spirit of the CC license is to “let people use works freely,” but in reality, third parties have been registering CC works without permission with audio fingerprinting services like YouTube Content ID and Audible Magic, then issuing unwarranted copyright claims. This means that works intended to be freely available are now, ironically, becoming risky to publish or use, stifling the open creative environment CC was meant to foster.
Challenges with YouTube and Streaming Platforms
Automated copyright detection systems like YouTube Content ID are, in principle, not supposed to register CC or public domain music. However, due to operational and review limitations, legitimate creators and users are frequently caught up in false claims. The spread of misregistrations and abuses is undermining the very ideals of Creative Commons.
Summary: The Triple Threat Facing CC Works in the AI Era
- Reduced Visibility: The flood of AI music makes it harder for original CC works to be found.
- Diminished Value and Rewards: AI training and market shifts further erode the value and earning potential of original works.
- Loss of Security: Abuse of fingerprinting and flaws in automated systems discourage open sharing and use.
In the age of AI, the “free and open creative culture” championed by Creative Commons is facing unprecedented challenges. Moving forward, greater transparency in AI data use, stricter controls on fingerprinting registrations, and improved platform operations will be essential to protect the spirit and practical benefits of Creative Commons.
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