Voice Cloning Laws and AI Music
Legal protections for artists against unauthorized AI voice replication. Understand your rights and what laws exist to protect vocal identity.
Disclaimer: This is a summary for educational purposes. Laws vary by jurisdiction and change frequently. Consult a qualified attorney for specific legal advice.
Overview
AI voice cloning technology can replicate any voice with just a few seconds of audio. While this enables creative possibilities, it also raises serious legal and ethical concerns—especially in music where an artist's voice is central to their identity and livelihood.
The legal landscape is evolving rapidly as legislators scramble to address AI voice replication. Here's what you need to know about current protections.
State Laws in the US
Several states have enacted or updated laws specifically addressing AI voice cloning:
Tennessee (ELVIS Act)
The Ensuring Likeness Voice and Image Security Act (2024) explicitly protects against AI voice cloning without consent. Named after Elvis Presley, it's the first state law to specifically address AI voice replication.
California
California's existing right of publicity laws (Civil Code § 3344) protect against unauthorized use of voice, though courts are still determining how this applies to AI-generated content.
New York
New York's right of publicity law protects living individuals from unauthorized commercial use of their voice. Recent amendments address digital replicas.
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SubscribeFederal Protection
There is currently no comprehensive federal law specifically addressing AI voice cloning. However, several existing laws may apply:
- Lanham Act: May apply if cloned voice is used in a way that causes consumer confusion
- Right of Publicity: Varies by state but may provide protection
- Contract Law: Artists may have contractual protections through record deals
The NO FAKES Act (proposed federal legislation) would create national protections against unauthorized AI replicas of individuals' voice and likeness. As of late 2024, it has bipartisan support but hasn't passed.
International Landscape
European Union
The EU AI Act (2024) requires disclosure of AI-generated content and may impact voice cloning. GDPR also provides some protections for biometric data including voice.
United Kingdom
UK law provides some protection through passing off and copyright, though specific AI voice legislation is still developing.
China
China's Deep Synthesis Provisions (2023) require consent for creating AI-generated content depicting real people, including voice synthesis.
Protecting Yourself
Whether you're an artist protecting your voice or a creator using AI tools, here are best practices:
For Artists
- Register your voice with services that monitor for AI clones
- Include AI voice protection clauses in contracts
- Document unauthorized uses for potential legal action
- Work with your label/representatives on takedown procedures
For Creators
- Never use AI voice cloning without explicit consent from the original artist
- Check platform terms—most prohibit unauthorized voice cloning
- Disclose AI-generated vocals where required
- Consider using royalty-free AI voices or licensed options
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Subscribe FreeOfficial Sources
Official guidance on AI and copyright
Tennessee state legislation
European AI regulations
AI-assisted content, reviewed by our editorial team.