Kathmandu— Australia's official music charts will no longer include tracks created entirely by artificial intelligence (AI), the Australian Recording Industry Association (ARIA) announced Tuesday, responding to public backlash over a popular AI-generated cover song. While songs utilizing AI in a supporting capacity will remain eligible for chart inclusion and awards consideration, those deemed “wholly AI-generated” will be excluded from both the weekly charts and the annual ARIA Music Awards, effective Friday. The decision aims to balance technological advancement with the recognition of human artistry amidst growing concerns about copyright and creative integrity within the music industry.

Backlash Over AI Cover Song

The policy change was prompted by a chart-topping cover of Madonna’s 1989 hit “Like a Prayer” created by Brisbane-based DJ Josh Fawaz, which heavily utilized AI-generated vocals and drums. Following questions from fans and producers, Fawaz acknowledged the use of AI in the track last month. Despite the controversy, the song has amassed over 48.5 million listens on Spotify and currently holds the number one position on the ARIA Top 20 Australian Dance Singles Chart.

New Labelling System for AI Involvement

ARIA will utilize a labelling system established by music industry groups last month to differentiate between tracks created with varying levels of AI involvement. Tracks labelled “AI-Generated” indicate that AI was used to create the majority of the recording’s creative elements, while those designated “AI-Assisted” signify that the technology served only to enhance existing human contributions. ARIA CEO Annabelle Herd stated the changes are intended to acknowledge legitimate uses of AI while protecting the core value of human artistry.

Industry Experts Weigh In

Experts have voiced support for ARIA’s decision, highlighting concerns about the ethical and legal implications of AI in music creation. Oliver Bown, an associate professor at the University of New South Wales researching technology and art, noted that many AI companies are potentially exploiting artists by scraping training data without permission. Ivan Zavada, a senior lecturer at the University of Sydney, described the changes as a “necessary step” to safeguard genuine human creativity and performance. Both experts acknowledge AI’s growing role in music production but emphasize the need for clearer legal frameworks.

Balancing Innovation with Artistic Integrity

Herd emphasized that ARIA's charts should evolve alongside technological advancements, but not at the expense of recognizing authentically created music. “These changes reflect our intent to remain dynamic and promote the human nature of artistry in what is – to say the least – a rapidly developing space,” she said. ARIA publishes over two dozen weekly charts, including those for singles and albums, and its members include major labels like Sony Music Entertainment Australia and Universal Music Australia.

Fawaz himself welcomed the new rules as a “great move”, expressing optimism about the continued success of Australian artists in the global music landscape. The industry continues to grapple with the evolving role of AI and the need for clear guidelines regarding its use.

(With inputs from Al Jazeera)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.