ASCAP, BMI and SOCAN have announced updated policies for musical works created in part by artificial intelligence.
All three PRO registration policies define a partially AI-generated musical work as one that combines elements of AI-generated musical content with elements of human authorship. These works will now be included as part of the full repertories licensed by each society. Musical compositions that are entirely created using AI tools are not eligible for registration with any of the individual societies.
“Songwriters and composers have always experimented with innovative tools as part of their creative process, and AI is no exception,” says Elizabeth Matthews, CEO, ASCAP. “We are clarifying our registration policy to now welcome partially AI-generated musical works because we believe AI can be a powerful tool for our members, as long as the law puts humans first and technology companies play fair and respect the rights of creators.”
“This is an important first step in protecting human creativity as AI technologies evolve, while supporting the songwriters and composers who choose to use AI as a tool to enhance their creative process,” shares Mike O’Neill, President & CEO, BMI. “All music creators will benefit from this aligned approach to the registration of partial AI-works that appropriately values creators’ contributions and ensures they are paid properly.”
“This alignment creates a legal and ethical path forward for AI in music. It recognizes that music creators are embracing new tools, while reinforcing our commitment to what matters most: respect for their work and the protection of human creativity,” adds Jennifer Brown, CEO, SOCAN. “The future of music can embrace AI and still remain deeply human.”
More information about each PRO’s AI initiatives, advocacy and registration policies can be found on their websites.
Lauryn Sink is a staff writer at MusicRow Magazine. Hailing from Lexington, North Carolina, Lauryn is a 2025 graduate of the Hussman School of Journalism and Media at The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.
