As AI songwriting tools like Boomy, Soundraw, and ChatGPT become more advanced, many musicians wonder: Can you actually make money from AI-created music? The answer depends on copyright laws and how you use AI in your creative process.
1. Who Owns the Copyright? (Legal Status Worldwide)
Most countries do not grant full copyright to purely AI-generated music. Here’s the current legal landscape:
???? United States (US Copyright Office Ruling, 2023)
? Fully AI-made songs = No copyright protection
? AI-assisted music (with human edits) = Eligible if:
You modify melody, lyrics, or structure significantly (~30% change)
You can prove creative input (saved project files, edits)
???? European Union & UK
Similar to the US—requires "human authorship"
Germany has allowed some AI copyright cases (but rare)
???? China
Allows copyright if AI is used as a tool (not sole creator)
Must register with proof of human involvement
2. How to Monetize AI Music (4 Legal Ways)
?? Method 1: Streaming Platforms (Spotify, Apple Music)
Works if: You edit AI output (vocals, arrangement)
How to upload:
Use distributors like DistroKid, TuneCore
Select "Human-AI Collaboration" option
Earnings: ~6 per 1,000 streams (same as human-made music)
?? Warning: Spotify has removed fully AI-generated albums (like "Heart on My Sleeve"), but allows AI-assisted tracks.
?? Method 2: Sell Licensing Rights
Sync Licensing: Sell for ads, films, games (must provide stems & edits)
Royalty Collection: Register with ASCAP/BMI (US) or PRS (UK)
Some require AI disclosure forms
?? Method 3: Custom Music Production
Sell AI-assisted jingles, background music for businesses
Platforms: Soundful, Mubert (royalty-free AI music libraries)
?? Method 4: Stock Music Marketplaces
Sell AI tracks as "no copyright" music (Epidemic Sound, Artlist)
Price: 50 per track (buyout model)
3. Risks & Limitations
?? Copyright Strikes: If AI copies a famous artist’s style (e.g., "AI Drake vocals"), you could face legal issues.
?? Platform Bans: YouTube detects AI voice clones, Apple Music tags "AI-Generated" content.
?? Payment Holds: Some distributors freeze earnings until human input is verified.
4. How to Protect Your AI Music (Checklist)
?? Edit the AI output (change melody, add live instruments)
?? Save project files (DAW sessions, MIDI edits as proof)
?? Disclose AI use when registering copyrights
?? Avoid vocal clones of famous singers
Final Verdict: Can You Earn Royalties?
| Type of AI Music | Copyright Status | Can Earn Money? |
|---|---|---|
| 100% AI-made | ? No protection | ? Only stock music |
| AI + Human Edits | ? Protected | ? Yes (Spotify, licensing) |
| AI Voice Clones | ?? High risk | ? Likely banned |
Best Strategy: Use AI as a starting point, then add your own vocals, lyrics, or instruments to secure copyright and royalties.