Paul McCartney Warns AI Copyright Changes Threaten Musicians’ Livelihoods

LONDON, UK — Sir Paul McCartney has warned that proposed changes to UK copyright law could allow artificial intelligence (AI) developers to exploit musicians’ work, threatening their ability to earn a living. The government is considering reforms that would permit AI companies to use online content for training models unless creators explicitly opt out, a move McCartney described as a potential “rip off” of artists.

In an interview with BBC‘s Sunday with Laura Kuenssberg, McCartney emphasized the importance of protecting creative rights. “When we were kids in Liverpool, we found a job that we loved, but it also paid the bills,” he said. “These proposals could remove the incentive for writers and artists and result in a loss of creativity.”

The legendary musician, one of the two surviving members of the Beatles, expressed concern that AI could create a “Wild West” scenario where artists’ copyrights are not adequately protected. “You get young guys, girls, coming up, and they write a beautiful song, and they don’t own it,” he said. “Anyone who wants can just rip it off. The money’s going somewhere, so why shouldn’t it be the guy who sat down and wrote Yesterday?”

McCartney urged the government to reconsider its plans, stating, “We’re the people, you’re the government! You’re supposed to protect us. That’s your job. If you’re putting through a bill, make sure you protect the creative thinkers, the creative artists, or you’re not going to have them.”

The proposed changes would allow AI developers to use online material for text and data mining without respecting copyright unless creators opt out. Critics argue that this system places an unfair burden on artists, who would need to notify countless AI providers individually to protect their work. An alternative proposal, championed by Baroness Kidron in the House of Lords, would require artists to opt in before their content could be used.

Tom Kiehl, CEO of UK Music, echoed McCartney’s concerns, stating that the government’s plans “put the music industry at a huge risk.” He added, “There is no evidence that creatives can effectively ‘opt out’ of their work from being trained by AI systems.”

Despite his concerns, McCartney acknowledged the potential benefits of AI in certain contexts. In 2023, he and Beatles drummer Sir Ringo Starr used AI to extract John Lennon‘s vocals from an old demo, resulting in the band’s “final” song, which has been nominated for multiple awards. “AI is great, and it can do lots of great things,” McCartney said. “But it shouldn’t rip creative people off.”

A government spokesperson defended the proposals, stating that the consultation aims to balance the needs of creators and AI innovators. “Our aim is to deliver legal certainty through a copyright regime that provides creators with real control, transparency, and helps them license their content,” they said.

McCartney’s warnings come as the UK music industry, which contributes over £120 billion to the economy, faces increasing challenges from AI advancements. The government’s consultation on the issue will run until February 25, with a final decision expected later this year.