SIGNALAI·Jun 26, 2026, 4:00 AMSignal75Short term

Generative AI and Copyright Infringement: A Legal-Technical Analysis of AI Music Generation Systems Under 17 U.S.C. Title 17

Source: arXiv cs.AI

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Generative AI and Copyright Infringement: A Legal-Technical Analysis of AI Music Generation Systems Under 17 U.S.C. Title 17

arXiv:2606.26111v1 Announce Type: cross Abstract: Generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) has enabled users to synthesize music with text prompts, combining copyrighted lyrics, AI-composed melodies, and synthetic vocals that imitate real artists. This paper examines the legal and technical dimensions of AI-based music creation (e.g., Google Gemini's music tools) under U.S. copyright law. We analyze whether a user who inputs one artist's protected lyrics into a GenAI system, directs it to use another artist's voice or style, publishes the resulting song, and monetizes it violates 17 U.S.C. S

Why this matters
Why now

The rapid advancement of generative AI in music creation, coupled with its increasing commercial application and monetization, necessitates an urgent legal framework to address copyright issues.

Why it’s important

This development highlights the immediate challenge of integrating powerful AI capabilities into existing legal and economic structures, particularly regarding intellectual property rights and fair use.

What changes

The explicit legal examination of AI-generated music's copyright status under US law could set precedents for content ownership, artist compensation, and the operational guidelines for GenAI platforms.

Winners
  • · Copyright lawyers
  • · Music licensing platforms
  • · AI companies providing legal compliance tools
Losers
  • · Generative AI platforms lacking robust copyright safeguards
  • · Users creating and monetizing infringing AI music
  • · Artists whose work is used without permission or compensation
Second-order effects
Direct

Immediate legal battles and injunctions against AI music generation services and users become more frequent.

Second

AI music platforms may implement stricter content filters and partnership models with rights holders to mitigate legal risks.

Third

New legislative efforts or amendments to copyright law specifically addressing AI-generated content could emerge globally, establishing a novel IP regime.

Editorial confidence: 90 / 100 · Structural impact: 60 / 100
Original report

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Read at arXiv cs.AI
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