Copyright infringement lawsuit filed against AI song generators Suno and Udio

The world’s largest record labels have filed lawsuits against AI music generators Suno and Udio for copyright infringement, accusing them of exploiting the works of artists ranging from Chuck Berry to Mariah Carey. Announced by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) on Monday, the lawsuits involve major labels like Sony Music Entertainment, Universal Music Group Recordings, and Warner Records.

One lawsuit targets Suno AI in federal court in Boston, while the other focuses on Uncharted Labs, the creator of Udio AI, in New York. The allegations claim that these AI tools unlawfully generate music resembling existing works and demand damages of $150,000 per infringement.

Suno, which debuted its product last year and charges a subscription fee, has partnered with Microsoft. Udio, released in April, gained popularity when producer Metro Boomin used it to create BBL Drizzy, a viral parody of Kendrick Lamar and Drake’s diss tracks.

Suno AI’s CEO, Mikey Shulman, insists their technology generates entirely new outputs and does not replicate pre-existing content, adding that the company tried to engage in discussions with the labels. Udio has not commented on the lawsuits.

RIAA Chairman and CEO Mitch Glazier emphasised the music industry’s cooperation with responsible AI developers, condemning unlicensed services like Suno and Udio for profiting from artists’ work without consent. The issue of AI in music has sparked significant debate, leading to legislative action in Tennessee and a call from over 200 artists for AI companies to respect artists’ rights.