From Music Business Worldwide · · 1m 20s
Sony Music Demands 260,000 AI Deepfakes Removed
Sony Music has asked platforms to delete 260,000 AI deepfakes of artists like Harry Styles and Michael Jackson.
In brief
Sony Music has asked platforms to delete 260,000 AI deepfakes of artists like Harry Styles and Michael Jackson. Sony Music requested over 260,000 AI deepfake tracks impersonating artists be removed from digital platforms by September 2026. Originally reported by Music Business Worldwide.
Sony Music Requests Takedowns
Sony Music asked digital platforms to remove over 260,000 AI-generated tracks impersonating artists by September 2026.
Double the Previous Request
Sony Music requested more than double the 135,000 deepfakes removed by the end of March 2026.
Monthly Takedown Rate
Sony issued over 20,000 AI deepfake takedown requests per month in Q2 and Q3 2026.
Sony's Stance on Deepfakes
Sony described AI deepfakes as tracks imitating artists' voices and likenesses without permission, causing harm to artists and misleading fans.
Artists Targeted
Sony-affiliated artists including Harry Styles, Adele, Britney Spears, Queen, and Michael Jackson were impersonated by AI deepfakes.
Spotify's Policy
Spotify prohibits artist impersonation and requires approval for music to appear on artists' profiles.
Fraudulent Streaming
AI-generated tracks and bots stream music to generate fraudulent royalties for artists and rightsholders.
Industry Impact
Label executives estimate AI streaming fraud costs the music industry up to $2.2 billion annually.
Spotify's Response
Spotify introduced Artist Profile Protection to require artist approval before music appears on profiles.
The essence
Sony Music requested over 260,000 AI deepfake tracks impersonating artists be removed from digital platforms by September 2026.
