Music icon Sir Elton John and X Factor creator Simon Cowell have urged the Government to rethink proposals that would relax copyright laws, allowing artificial intelligence (AI) companies to use creative material without compensating its original creators.
The two stars have joined a growing movement demanding stronger copyright protections to safeguard the UK’s creative talent against exploitation by AI-driven technology.
Concerns over copyright changes
The Government’s proposed changes would allow large firms to use online creative content to train AI systems unless the original creators explicitly opt out. Critics argue this approach could leave musicians, writers, and other artists vulnerable to having their work used without proper recognition or payment.
Sir Elton John, speaking to the Daily Mail, warned that the UK’s world-renowned creative sector was at risk of being undermined by AI.
“We only achieved that success with the backing of our long-standing copyright protection – the world’s gold standard. Creative industries create jobs and economic growth.”
He further argued that weakening copyright laws would damage the UK’s leadership in the global creative industry and give away hard-earned success for nothing.
“The music community has always been quick to adopt new technologies… but adoption of this copyright exception would destroy the UK’s leadership that has been hard won, and what’s worse, it would give it all away. For nothing.”
Simon Cowell warns AI could “wipe out” artists
Simon Cowell, who has helped launch the careers of countless artists through television talent shows, echoed Sir Elton’s concerns. He stressed that failing to regulate AI properly could lead to entire creative industries being wiped out.
“The thought that anyone would believe they have the right to blindly give this country’s creative ideas away – for nothing – is just wrong.”
Cowell, who has spent decades nurturing new talent, passionately defended the rights of artists and the importance of human creativity.
“I passionately care about people’s personal creativity – and AI shouldn’t be able to steal the talent of those humans who created the magic in the first place.”
“Anyone who is able to create something they passionately care about deserves to have their work protected.”
Wider support from the creative community
The campaign to protect artists from AI copyright exploitation has received support from other major figures in the music, film, and literary industries.
Among them are:
- Singer-songwriter Joan Armatrading
- BAFTA-winning composer Nick Foster
- Bestselling author Kate Mosse
Mosse welcomed the potential benefits of AI but insisted that companies must pay for the creative work they use. She called for the Government to reverse its stance and introduce an “opt-in” system rather than forcing creators to opt out.
“This is a matter of principle, of fairness. Tech companies must seek permission and offer payment before using artists’ work.”
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Labour’s position on AI and copyright protection
The ongoing debate over AI’s role in the creative industries has also caught the attention of Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer.
Speaking in December at a Liaison Committee meeting, Starmer acknowledged the importance of the UK’s creative industries and said the Government was consulting on its proposals.
“I think we need to get the balance right, but I also think we have a huge opportunity.”
While Starmer suggested that AI could bring innovation and economic benefits, he agreed that protections must be put in place to prevent artists from being exploited.
What happens next?
With pressure mounting from high-profile figures like Sir Elton John and Simon Cowell, the Government faces increasing calls to reconsider its AI copyright policy.
Key demands from the creative community include:
✔️ AI companies must obtain permission before using copyrighted work.
✔️ Creators should be paid fairly for their contributions.
✔️ A clear legal framework should be established to prevent AI exploitation of human talent.
The outcome of this debate will have significant implications for the future of the UK’s creative industries. With the rise of AI-generated music, writing, and art, the question remains: will the Government protect its artists, or will it prioritise big tech?
