The world’s major record labels have joined forces to prevent artificial intelligence (AI) songs from topping the charts. The proposal stipulates that only 'substantially human made' tracks will be eligible for chart inclusion, a term left somewhat ambiguous.

These labels are going further than previous attempts, which merely required AI-generated music to be clearly marked and meet certain criteria. The new rules also explicitly ban AI songs from international charts unless they’re deemed sufficiently 'substantially human made,' a concept that remains unclear in practice.

The major labels’ proposal includes stringent requirements for the use of generative AI services, including ensuring proper authorization and lawful usage, avoiding stream or chart manipulation concerns, and complying with copyright laws. Additionally, any use of such services must be appropriately signalled to consumers on streaming platforms.

Despite the IFPI’s support, no charting organization has signaled plans to adopt these rules immediately. The ambiguity surrounding 'substantially human made' raises questions about where creativity ends and technology begins in music.