After Kumar Sanu, Shaan and Arjun Kanungo spoke out for legal protection of their voices against the misuse of AI

Earlier, singer Kumar Sanu had spoken on various platforms about the steps he took to protect his voice from being misused by artificial intelligence. After the singer announced that he would seek legal help to protect his voice, several other singers shared their thoughts on the need for legal protection to protect their voice and told us that they are considering taking similar steps.

In an earlier interview with Hindustan Times, Sanu said, “I was recently in the US to attend a series of concerts. My next step is to approach the court and seek such an order. Today’s technology is dominated by AI. If you don’t do that, I don’t think that is right. You have to protect yourself with such methods. AI is dangerous.”

Also read: Like Amitabh Bachchan, Kumar Sanu wants personal rights to be protected and says: “AI sees it wrong to duplicate voices”

Other singers also share Sanu’s views and concerns.

Shaan

We on the board of the Indian Singers and Musicians Rights’ Association (ISAMRA) have had several discussions on how to tackle AI-generated voice imitations. Having to pursue legal action individually can be very complicated. I am confident that in a few weeks we will have an AI safeguard clause ready that can patent established voices and protect them from misuse or commercial use.

Arjun Kanungo

Protecting our voices is of utmost importance for artists today. With advances in AI, the potential threats are unpredictable and significant. I think the only way forward is to seek legal counsel and protect your voice. I would definitely consider that. Various scenarios could arise in the next few years where people’s voices are misused and that could be a big problem.

Dhvani Bhanushali

Musicians should consider incorporating these technological advances into their work. However, artists should not be exploited at the expense of innovation – there must be a fair ecosystem. Arbitrary use or copyright infringement of any kind requires legal advice and action. It should be a choice that every artist should have.

Nikhita Gandhi

The problem is not AI itself, but its use and the legal aspects. The problem is that the laws are not clear. I definitely want to protect my voice from possible misuse. Actually, every artist should seek protection.

Anusha Mani

I don’t know our country’s laws regarding AI and I don’t know how strict they are or how many loopholes they have, but if there is a way, I would certainly consider it.

Musicians in the West

Earlier this year, over 200 international artists signed an open letter demanding protection from the misuse of their voices by AI. They include Billie Eilish, Stevie Wonder, Nicki Minaj and REM, among others, reported The Guardian. The letter was issued by the advocacy group Artist Rights Alliance and demanded that technology companies promise not to replace human voices with technology. The estates of the late musicians Frank Sinatra and Bob Marley also signed the letter.