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How IFPI CEO Victoria Oakley Is Tackling AI & Streaming Fraud Head-On: ‘We’ve Got Work to Do’
IFPI chief executive Victoria Oakley says the music industry needs coordinated action to manage AI and streaming fraud while protecting creators and the business model. The organisation has introduced initiatives to identify AI-generated songs on streaming services, exclude them from its international charts and tackle fraudulent streams.
Oakley, who took the role in April 2024 after working in British diplomacy and corporate consulting, argues that governments need a better understanding of how music and its revenues work. She says record labels have moved towards licensing AI uses, but warns that some proposals, including a debate in Australia, could weaken copyright protections. IFPI traditionally focuses on lobbying and industry support, and Oakley says collaboration is needed to establish safeguards while making use of AI’s creative potential.
In short
- IFPI is acting on AI music labelling, chart rules and streaming fraud.
- Oakley says copyright and creator income need protection.
- She wants governments and the industry to work together.
Steelman: both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
The industry has a responsibility to protect musicians’ livelihoods and ensure charts and royalty payments reflect genuine listening. Clear licensing rules, safeguards against unauthorised use of music in AI training, and action against fake streams could protect creators while allowing AI tools to develop under agreed terms.
The case against
Broad restrictions on AI uses or excluding AI-generated tracks from charts could limit new forms of creativity and make it harder for independent artists to reach audiences. Rules should avoid entrenching the power of established labels, and policy makers should weigh creators’ rights alongside public access, innovation and fair competition.
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