Nile Rodgers warns of streaming threat in new Commons report
“I have been doing this for 50 years of my life, and in 50 years you would have thought that, with the advent of all the new technologies, people like me would have a much better life, that things would be easier".
By Nick Reilly
Top musicians including Nile Rodgers have warned MPs that the threat of artificial intelligence, streaming and issues with copyright laws mean that successful artists are still struggling to earn a living.
The stark warning comes as part of a new report published today (April 10) by the Commons Culture, Media and Sport Committee – who have urged the government to protect the livelihoods of people who are “failing to share in the global success of the UK’s creative industries”.
As part of the report, MPs have called for a “freelancers’ commissioner” who can ensure that they fully remunerated, as well as a “definitive deadline” for the government to ensure that fair compensation is given when the work of creatives is used by AI programmers.
It comes amid fears that AI could replace actors, musicians and leave thousands out of work.
MPs said: “We are concerned that the status quo simply favours AI developers, given creators’ concerns that their IP is already being used in AI development without licence or any practical means of recourse.”
Rodgers – who previously said David Bowie would have struggled to break through in a world of streaming – also explained that he made 100,000 US dollars from his first single in 1977.
In contrast, artists of today are facing a far rawer deal. “I have been doing this for 50 years of my life, and in 50 years you would have thought that, with the advent of all the new technologies, people like me would have a much better life, that things would be easier and we would all profit together, but that is not the case,” he said.
Dame Caroline Dinenage, the committee’s chairwoman, said: “Many of our talented actors, writers, composers and singers are failing to share in the global success of the UK’s creative industries as the sector struggles to navigate a perfect storm caused by everything from the emergence of AI through to the rapid changes in the way content is consumed.
“If creators are no longer to be the poor relations, the government needs to play catch-up by plugging the gaps in outdated copyright and intellectual property regulations and ensuring that there is a champion for the rights of freelancers, who make a vital contribution to their industries.”