Over 1,000 musicians, including renowned artists like Annie Lennox, Damon Albarn, and Kate Bush, have released a silent album titled This Is What We Want? in a powerful protest against the UK government’s proposed changes to copyright law. These changes would make it easier for AI companies to use copyrighted works without obtaining a license.
The controversial proposals would allow AI developers to mine online content, including music, text, and images, to train their models unless creators specifically opt out. Many artists argue this policy would undermine their control over their work, making it difficult to protect their intellectual property.
The album features recordings of empty studios and performance spaces, symbolizing the fear that artists’ voices could be silenced if the proposals become law. The tracklist itself spells out a clear message: “The British government must not legalise music theft to benefit AI companies.”
Kate Bush, known for her unique artistry and vocal innovation, expressed concern over the future of creative expression. “In the music of the future, will our voices go unheard?” she asked, highlighting the potential threat to artistic livelihoods.
The album is supported by several high-profile musicians, including Billy Ocean, Ed O’Brien of Radiohead, Dan Smith of Bastille, The Clash, Jamiroquai, and Mystery Jets. All proceeds from the record will be donated to the charity Help Musicians.
Critics argue that the proposed “opt-out” mechanism places an unfair burden on individual creators. Under the new rules, artists would be required to notify potentially thousands of AI companies if they do not want their work used for data mining—a task many believe is unrealistic.
Imogen Heap, Yusuf (formerly known as Cat Stevens), Riz Ahmed, Tori Amos, and Hans Zimmer are among the influential voices opposing the government’s plans. Composer Max Richter stressed that the changes would “impoverish creators” across all artistic fields, from writers to visual artists.
A government spokesperson defended the consultation process, stating that the UK’s music industry is “truly world-class” and emphasizing the importance of a copyright framework that provides creators with “real control” and transparency.
Despite these assurances, many within the industry feel the changes would prioritize the interests of tech companies over the rights of artists. Ed Newton-Rex, the organizer of the silent album, criticized the proposals as “disastrous for musicians” and “totally unnecessary.”
He argued that the UK could be a leader in AI without sacrificing the creative industries. “Musicians themselves are united in their thorough condemnation of this ill-thought-through plan,” he said.
Singer-songwriter Naomi Kimpenu echoed these concerns, warning that the policy could “shatter the prospects of so many emerging artists in the UK.”
The music industry is a significant contributor to the UK economy, generating a record £7.6 billion in 2023. Industry leaders fear that undermining copyright protections will jeopardize the livelihoods of both established and emerging artists.
Sir Paul McCartney has also voiced his opposition to the changes. In January, he warned that the proposed laws could enable “rip-off” technology, making it increasingly difficult for musicians to sustain a living.
As the government’s public consultation on the legal changes concludes, artists and advocates hope their silent protest will draw attention to the urgent need for stronger protections in the digital age.
