Deezer has revealed a staggering surge in AI-generated music on its platform, with 18% of all new uploads now fully created by artificial intelligence—doubling since January to over 20,000 tracks per day.
AI Music Detection in Action
The streaming service, which boasts 9.7 million subscribers, has deployed proprietary AI detection tools to identify and filter synthetic tracks from recommendations. The system flags music from popular generators like Suno and Udio, both currently embroiled in copyright lawsuits from major labels and Germany’s GEMA.
“AI-generated content continues to flood streaming platforms, and we see no sign of it slowing down,” warned Aurélien Hérault, Deezer’s Chief Innovation Officer.
Industry Backlash & Royalty Protection
Deezer has taken a hardline stance against AI’s disruptive potential:
- Excludes AI tracks from algorithmic playlists to protect human artists.
- Deleted 26 million “useless” tracks in 2023 under its artist-centric payment model, now adopted by Warner Music and Merlin.
- CEO Alexis Lanternier emphasised AI must be used “responsibly to safeguard artists’ rights and revenues.”
Legal Battles & the Future of Music
The explosion of AI music has triggered global backlash:
- Major labels sued Suno and Udio for allegedly training on copyrighted songs.
- CISAC predicts AI could slash 24% of creators’ revenues by 2028.
- Stars like Billie Eilish and Stevie Wonder condemned AI’s threat to human artistry.
As platforms grapple with synthetic content, Deezer’s data underscores a pivotal question: Can the music industry control the AI wave—or will it be drowned out?
