A rendition of Madonna’s popular song “Like a Prayer” gained significant airplay on Australian radio last month. However, the song faces potential exclusion from official charts due to new regulations established by the Australian music industry.
The Australian Record Industry Association (ARIA), responsible for overseeing the nation’s official music charts, recently declared that tracks entirely created by artificial intelligence (AI) will no longer be permitted. ARIA spokesperson Andrew Knowles emphasized that recordings must have significant human involvement to be considered for the ARIA charts.
Specifically, tracks where generative AI primarily produces creative elements, such as lead vocals or instruments, will be disqualified. Nevertheless, recordings where AI complements human performances in a minor capacity may still qualify. ARIA will also monitor for any attempts at manipulating streaming or chart positions and ensure compliance with copyright laws.
ARIA’s Chief Executive, Annabelle Herd, stated that these changes aim to uphold the human aspect of artistry in a rapidly evolving landscape. She highlighted that recognizing unlicensed AI-generated music could undermine the essence of recorded music.
The decision follows the success of Brisbane DJ and producer Josh Fawaz’s rendition of “Like a Prayer,” featuring AI-generated vocals and drums, on ARIA’s Top 20 Australian Singles chart. The track’s extended presence on the charts sparked debates around the use of generative AI in music production.
Criticism towards Fawaz escalated online, with music producer Mitch Thomas accusing him of exclusively using AI in his music production. Fawaz defended his approach, asserting that AI serves as a tool rather than the sole creator of his music.
Effective next Monday, ARIA will implement the new rules, disqualifying wholly AI-generated tracks from the charts. However, AI-assisted music that meets the outlined criteria will remain eligible. ARIA confirmed that Fawaz’s version of “Like a Prayer” did not align with the eligibility standards provided by the artist.