A recent hit song that gained significant airplay on Australian radio last month is now facing potential exclusion from official music charts in Australia due to new regulations set by the country’s music industry.
The Australian Record Industry Association (ARIA), responsible for overseeing the nation’s official music charts, declared that songs entirely created by artificial intelligence (AI) will no longer be allowed on the charts. ARIA’s spokesperson, Andrew Knowles, stated that recordings must have a substantial human element to be considered for the ARIA charts.
Tracks where generative AI plays a major role in creating creative elements, especially lead vocals or instrumental parts, will not meet the eligibility criteria. However, if human performance remains central to the recording and AI is used in a minor capacity, the track can still be considered for the charts.
ARIA also announced the authority to remove recordings suspected of manipulating streams or charts and emphasized compliance with copyright laws. Additionally, music produced by generative AI will not qualify for prestigious awards like the ARIA Awards.
ARIA’s CEO, Annabelle Herd, explained that these changes aim to uphold the human aspect of music creation in a rapidly evolving landscape. She emphasized the importance of transparency in measuring Australia’s music consumption and the need to prevent unlicensed AI-generated content from undermining the industry’s integrity.
The decision follows the success of Brisbane DJ and producer Josh Fawaz’s rendition of Madonna’s “Like a Prayer,” which integrated AI-generated vocals and drums and had a significant presence on the ARIA charts. The controversial single sparked debates and criticisms surrounding the use of generative AI in music production.
Despite the backlash, Fawaz defended his music, stating that AI serves as a tool in his creative process rather than the sole source of production. The new regulations will take effect next Monday, banning wholly AI-generated tracks from the ARIA charts while allowing AI-assisted music to remain eligible, as confirmed by ARIA to the Associated Press.
According to ARIA’s verification, Fawaz’s cover of “Like a Prayer” did not meet the revised eligibility standards based on information provided by the artist.