AI song generator startups Suno and Udio seek closer ties with the music industry

Suno and Udio say they want closer relationships and licensing talks with labels and artists after earlier disputes over copyright; many musicians remain skeptical and have mounted campaigns calling for transparency and payment.

Suno and Udio, two AI song-generator startups, are seeking closer relationships with record labels and artists after earlier disputes over copyright and industry criticism. Company leaders say they want an anchor to favorite artists and want to be thoughtful about the law. Many musicians have expressed skepticism and organized campaigns demanding licensing, transparency and payment. Some independent creators already use AI tools to produce and promote music. Observed developments: - Both startups say they aim to build ties with the music industry and explore licensing or partnership arrangements, according to interviews with their leaders. - Artists and advocacy groups organized the "Stealing Isn't Innovation" campaign, with figures such as Tift Merritt, Cyndi Lauper and Bonnie Raitt urging transparency and licensing deals. - Some creators, including Christopher "Topher" Townsend, are using AI tools like Suno together with other services to generate songs, lyrics and promotional materials. - Neither company was invited to the Grammy Awards; Suno's co-founder said he hopes industry rules may change and that recognition could follow. Summary: The companies are positioning themselves to join established industry structures after provoking criticism and legal concerns among musicians. Artists and advocacy groups continue to press for licensing and clear terms, and how labels, awards bodies or regulators will respond is undetermined at this time.