Industry Sep 24, 2026
Universal and Warner Dispute 'New Use' Clause in AFM Agreement
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 are contesting the applicability of the 'new use' clause in their agreement with the American Federation of Musicians (AFM). The AFM sued both companies in June, alleging that their AI deals should result in shared revenue with union members under the Sound Recording Labor Agreement. Both parties have submitted new court filings as the music majors seek to have the lawsuit dismissed. Originally reported by Complete Music Update.