Industry Sep 23, 2026
Universal and Warner Contest AFM's Interpretation of 'New Use' Clause Regarding AI
In June the American Federation Of Musicians sued Universal and Warner over their AI deals, insisting the majors should be sharing their AI money with the union’s members under its Sound Recording Lab
Originally published by
Complete Music Update
Universal Music Group and Warner Music Group have filed court documents arguing that the 'new use' clause in their agreement with the American Federation of Musicians (AFM) does not apply to their artificial intelligence deals. The AFM sued the record labels in June, contending that AI-generated revenue should be shared with union members under the Sound Recording Labor Agreement. Both parties are presenting arguments as the labels seek to dismiss the lawsuit. Originally reported by Complete Music Update.