Elton John Slams UK’s “Criminal” AI Copyright Proposal

Rock Royalty vs. Robo-Rules

Elton John has taken a firm stand against the UK government’s proposed changes to copyright laws for AI-generated content, likening them to a creative betrayal. The music icon joined dozens of renowned artists in signing an open letter organized by the Music Artists Coalition, warning that the loosening of copyright protections could allow companies to exploit creatives’ work without consent or compensation. The proposal, aimed at giving tech developers greater leeway in using existing material to train AI systems, has sparked widespread backlash from the creative industry, with critics saying it sacrifices artistic rights for corporate convenience.

A Growing Rift Between Tech and Talent

The UK’s plan proposes expanding the legal scope of text and data mining for AI training, even when it involves copyrighted works. While the government argues this fosters innovation and AI competitiveness, opponents say it risks turning artists into unwilling “data donors.” Figures like Elton John, Sting, and Nile Rodgers argue that AI must respect the human elements that fuel creativity—not overwrite them. Calls are mounting for balanced, transparent policies that ensure AI development does not trample the rights of creators in the name of technological progress.