Stick Figure, a SoCal reggae group founded by Scott Woodruff, achieved fame with billions of streams over eight albums. However, a recent incident with AI-manipulated music highlighted new challenges for artists. In April, a tweaked version of their 2019 single ‘Angels Above Me’ went viral, titled ‘Run Run River.’ This unauthorized version reached No. 2 on Shazam, indicating tens of thousands of curious listeners. It amassed tens of millions of plays, but Stick Figure wasn’t credited.
AI-Manipulated Music and Artist Rights
The modified song wasn’t attributed to Stick Figure; instead, someone profited from its success without their knowledge. ‘They didn’t credit us. We were just being ripped off,’ Woodruff said. This situation illustrates how AI can manipulate existing records, altering them for profit without artist acknowledgment.
Streamers and social media platforms struggle to detect or prevent such fraud. AI remixes can circulate widely, raising questions about where fan-driven creativity ends and scams begin. ‘Real humans, real emotion,’ Woodruff emphasized, underscoring the impact of AI on artists’ creations.
Widespread Issues with AI Music
Prominent platforms like Deezer and Spotify experience significant issues with AI-generated tracks. Deezer estimates that 75,000 AI songs are uploaded daily, constituting 44% of new music. Spotify removed 75 million spam tracks last year, acknowledging the harm caused by AI-generated content. An example involved Michael Smith, who pled guilty to wire fraud after generating $8 million through fake AI tracks.
Björn Lindvall from Hipgnosis Songs notes the growing risk to artists and music rights. With technology capable of creating vast amounts of music, the industry’s data volume will significantly increase.
Stick Figure’s Response and Industry Adaptation
Stick Figure’s manager, Thomas Cussins, noted the difficulty in distinguishing legitimate fan remixes from fraudulent clones. Stick Figure believes that AI should not be used to clone and monetize songs without consent.
Despite losing potential revenue from 25 million streams, Woodruff sees value in the viral spread of their music, with fans advocating for proper credits. Ineffable Music’s Adam Gross expressed concerns about AI’s impact on authentic artists and rights holders. He pointed out that independent artists lack representation in ongoing AI discussions.
The industry is evolving, with changes to accommodate fan-driven AI creations. Spotify and Universal Music Group’s partnership aims to create new revenue streams through AI-powered covers and remixes. While promising solutions are in development, the industry must connect technology with appropriate compensation models.
Woodruff remains optimistic, appreciating fan support for Stick Figure’s original work. ‘The fans have taken over comments,’ he said, highlighting their role in promoting the rightful creators.