The music industry has proposed a voluntary system for labelling songs that involve artificial intelligence, more than 35 years after the introduction of the Parental Advisory sticker. In a joint announcement, the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA), the Grammys, SAG-AFTRA and other music organisations set out what they called a unified approach to track labelling, intended to give listeners clearer information about how generative AI has been used in recordings. The move matters because it represents an industry-wide attempt to preserve trust and transparency at a time when human artistry and authenticity are seen as central to music's value.

Under the proposal, digital markers similar to those denoting explicit lyrics would be added to streaming services: a black block with a large "AI" would signify fully "AI-Generated" tracks, while a white block with a smaller "ai" would mark "AI-assisted" songs. The initiative follows reports of a surge in AI music online, with Deezer stating that AI-generated songs made up 44 per cent of new uploads and Apple Music reporting that a third of new uploads are "100% AI". Figures including IFPI CEO Vikki Oakley, RIAA CEO Mitch Glazier and Grammys CEO Harvey Mason Jr. backed the plan, though it remains unclear whether or when streaming services will actually adopt the labels.