Critical Listening Episode 5: August 2025 Headlines
5 snips
Sep 10, 2025 Max and Liz tackle intriguing headlines on how AI is reshaping the music landscape. They explore the ramifications of independent labels partnering with AI companies and question the ethical implications of using artists' catalogs for training models. The duo discusses the potential threats to synchronization licensing, a vital income source for musicians. They also dive into Duolingo’s acquisition of a music education app, debating its effectiveness compared to traditional mentoring. Lastly, local musicians rally against a Live Nation venue, highlighting community activism.
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Blogger Bragged About Replacing Writers With AI
- Liz recounts meeting a music business blogger who switched from paying writers to using generative AI for articles.
- She found the admission insulting to journalists and symptomatic of broader industry disrespect for writers.
AI Music Deal Raises Training Questions
- Eleven Labs launched 11 Music with Merlin and Cobalt deals to enter generative AI music for sync and other uses.
- Their prohibited-prompt list signals a defensive approach to deepfakes but leaves training-data and opt-in questions unresolved.
Scrutinize AI Licensing Terms Now
- Read licensing terms and opt-in language closely when rights organizations sign AI deals on artists' behalf.
- Artists and labels should demand explicit consent, credit, and clear compensation mechanisms before agreeing.