TIDAL cracks down on AI music by cutting off monetization

The music streaming service TIDAL has unveiled a new policy aimed at curbing the monetization of AI-generated music on its platform. This initiative seeks to safeguard the interests of artists by preventing fully AI-created tracks from generating revenue. In a recent announcement, Tony Gervino, TIDAL's Executive Vice President and Editor-in-Chief, emphasized the company’s commitment to fostering authentic creativity. He stated that many subscribers have expressed a preference to avoid exposure to entirely AI-generated music. To enforce this policy, TIDAL plans to utilize automated tools that will identify and remove any AI-generated content that tries to mimic existing artists or bands. As part of this new approach, any music identified as fully AI-generated will be marked with an “AI” badge, ensuring that listeners are aware of its origins. These tracks will not be eligible for monetization or royalty collection, nor will they qualify for direct sales to fans. TIDAL’s move aligns with similar actions taken by other streaming platforms, including Spotify and Apple Music, which have also introduced measures to address the influx of AI-generated music. Spotify has implemented changes to better tag AI music and filter out spam, while Apple Music has adopted a tagging strategy as well. Deezer, which reports that a significant portion of its new uploads are AI-generated, has taken a more aggressive stance by removing such tracks from recommendations and editorial playlists. TIDAL’s policy is positioned as a proactive measure to manage the rise of AI in the music industry, with Gervino suggesting that demonetization might help mitigate the overwhelming presence of AI music that many listeners find unappealing. He remarked, “AI’s takeover of the music industry isn’t inevitable if we take greater steps now to monitor and control it.” This policy is considered a “living document,” indicating that it may evolve as the landscape changes, with an implementation date set for July 15, 2026.