Do I Own a Song Generated with AI Under Copyright Laws?

Question from murska, Do I Own a Song Generated with AI Under Copyright Laws?

Answer from AI:

If you generate a song using an AI music generator like Suno, and you have a paid plan that claims to give you ownership of the song, you might wonder if you actually own the song under U.S. copyright laws. Let’s break down the key points to understand this better.

Understanding Copyright Ownership

In the United States, copyright law is governed by the Copyright Act of 1976. Copyright protection is automatically granted to original works of authorship fixed in a tangible medium of expression. This includes music, lyrics, and sound recordings.

Originality and Authorship

For a work to be protected by copyright, it must be:

• Original: The work must be independently created by the author and possess some minimal degree of creativity.
• Fixed in a Tangible Medium: The work must be captured in a way that it can be perceived, reproduced, or otherwise communicated for more than a short time.

AI-Generated Content

When it comes to AI-generated content, the issue of authorship becomes complex. The U.S. Copyright Office has generally held that works created by non-human authors are not eligible for copyright protection. This means that if an AI system generates a song, the AI itself cannot be considered the author.

Your Role in the Creation Process

Since you wrote the lyrics yourself, you are the author of the lyrics and hold the copyright to that part of the song. However, the music generated by the AI may not be as straightforward.

Ownership Clauses in AI Service Agreements

Many AI music generators, including paid plans like Suno, may include terms and conditions that address ownership. These terms might state that you, as the user, own the rights to the output generated by the AI. However, these terms are contractual and do not necessarily align with copyright law.

Legal Considerations and Recommendations

Given the complexities, here are some steps you can take:

1. Review the Terms of Service: Carefully read the terms and conditions of the AI music generator to understand what rights you are granted.
2. Consult a Legal Professional: Given the nuances of copyright law and AI-generated content, it is advisable to consult with a copyright attorney to get personalized legal advice.
3. Register Your Work: Consider registering your lyrics and the final song with the U.S. Copyright Office. This can provide additional legal protection and clarity.

Resources for Further Information

For more detailed information, you can refer to:

• U.S. Copyright Act of 1976
• U.S. Copyright Office Registration

Remember, while this information provides a general overview, it is not a substitute for professional legal advice. Always consult with a legal professional to address your specific situation.