Industry Jul 29, 2026
AFM Claims 'New Use' Clause Covers AI in Musician Agreements
In short
US musicians’ union AFM reckons a ‘new use’ clause in its agreement with the labels means Warner and Universal should be sharing income for their Udio deals with its members.
Originally published by
Complete Music Update
The American Federation of Musicians (AFM) asserts that a 'new use' clause in its agreements with record labels applies to artificial intelligence. The union contends that Warner and Universal should share revenue from their Udio deals with AFM members, based on this interpretation. A dispute has arisen concerning the clause's meaning, with the AFM dismissing the labels' perspective as illogical. Originally reported by Complete Music Update.