The U.K. government is considering changes to AI copyright law, allowing tech companies to use copyrighted material like music, books and recordings for AI training without getting artists’ permission.
The proposal will force artists to opt out if they don’t want their work used. Major artists like Kate Bush, Paul McCartney and Elton John aren’t taking it lightly; many say it would weaken copyright protections across all creative industries.
While the government is still deciding whether to move forward, opposition is growing. Artists, advocacy groups and creative professionals are speaking out as they face more unlicensed use of their voices and work.
In this article
- How UK Artists Are Fighting Back
- What This Law Actually Means for Creators
- The Risks for Voice Over Professionals
- Why Ethical AI Needs Consent
- How Voice Actors Can Protect Their Work From AI Cloning
- The Ethical AI Partner for Agencies
How UK Artists Are Fighting Back
To protest the proposed legislation, over 1,000 musicians have jointly released an album called Is This What We Want?, featuring “almost silence,” according to composer (and former AI developer) Ed Newton-Rex, as a warning against the consequences of AI-generated voices and music taking over without ethical safeguards.
The track titles spell out a clear message: “The British government must not legalize music theft to benefit AI companies.”
This controversy goes beyond music. The proposed changes would affect anyone who creates original content, making it easier for AI companies to profit from human creativity without compensation.
What This Law Actually Means for Creators
At first glance, the U.K.’s proposal might seem like a minor policy update, but it fundamentally shifts control from creators to AI companies.
Currently, companies must have explicit permission before using copyrighted material for AI training. If this law passes, they can scrape books, music and voice recordings freely unless the creator actively opts out.
But opting out is complicated.
Creators would have to constantly monitor AI companies, file requests to remove their work and prove ownership (an almost impossible task at scale). Once AI models are trained on copyrighted material, they don’t just “forget” what they’ve learned, meaning creators may never fully regain control over their work.
It’s not just a concern for musicians. AI voice cloning could also replace voice talent without their knowledge or consent.
The Risks for Voice Over Professionals
The rise of AI-generated voices has made it easier than ever for companies to replicate a voice actor’s performance using just a few recordings. If the U.K.’s proposal sets a global precedent, voice actors would face increased risks, including:
• Unlicensed AI voice cloning: AI models could be trained on their voice without approval.
• Loss of creative control: AI-generated voices could be used in ways that don’t align with their personal values.
• Reduced opportunities: AI voices could replace human talent in commercials, narration and entertainment.
At Voices, we believe AI and creative industries can coexist, but only when clear, ethical guidelines are in place.
Why Ethical AI Needs Consent
The human voice carries emotion, nuance and authenticity — things AI can’t replicate. Ethical AI should enhance creative industries, not replace them. When used responsibly, AI voice applications can even help artists expand their opportunities, but ethical AI starts with consent.
At Voices, we’re deeply committed to the 3 Cs of Ethical AI:
Consent: Voice talent must explicitly approve AI training.
Control: Artists should decide how their AI-generated voice is used.
Compensation: If an AI system profits from a voice actor’s work, the artist should be paid fairly. Before their data is used, we ensure our voice talent has complete control over the words their AI-generated voice is expected to say.
How Voice Actors Can Protect Their Work From AI Cloning
If you’re a voice actor, here’s how you can protect your work:
• Only work with platforms that prioritize consent and ethical AI practices.
• Review contracts carefully to ensure AI voice cloning is not included without permission.
• Stay informed about evolving AI copyright laws and industry standards.
The Ethical AI Partner for Agencies
AI is shaping the future of advertising, but ethical AI starts with consent, control and fair compensation. At Voices, we provide AI voice solutions that protect agencies and voice talent so your campaigns can push creative boundaries without ethical concerns.
Work with the platform that puts creators and agencies first.
Leave a Reply