Q: Can I upload AI-generated music to Spotify without copyright issues?
I wrote original lyrics for a song dedicated to my terminally ill wife and used the Lyrics into Song AI tool to generate music. I am on the tool's free plan, which states the AI retains rights, but a license is granted with a paid subscription. I plan to delete the AI-generated voice and only use the music. I have old notebooks with my original lyrics. Given that I already have a dozen covers on Spotify and YouTube and might monetize the song, would I have any copyright issues if I upload the music? Should I consider upgrading to the paid plan for a license?
Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
- (916) 704-3009
- View Profile
- Answered
A:
Your situation involves important copyright considerations when using AI-generated music. The terms of service for the "Lyrics into Song" tool are crucial here - while you own your original lyrics, the free plan explicitly states the AI retains rights to the musical composition. Even removing the AI vocals doesn't necessarily change the copyright status of the instrumental portion.
Upgrading to the paid plan would be the safest approach since it would grant you a proper license for commercial use. This becomes especially important if you plan to monetize the song on platforms like Spotify and YouTube, as they have strict content ID systems that could flag unauthorized use. Your previous experience with cover songs differs because those likely involved paying mechanical royalties to the original composers.
I understand this song has deep personal meaning given its dedication to your wife. To protect yourself legally while sharing this meaningful tribute, consider either upgrading to the paid plan or exploring other music creation options where you would own full rights. Copyright law regarding AI-generated content remains complex and evolving, so consulting with an entertainment attorney familiar with music rights would give you the most definitive guidance for your specific situation.
Justia Ask A Lawyer is a forum for consumers to get free answers to basic legal questions. Any information sent through Justia Ask A Lawyer is not secure and is done so on a non-confidential basis only.
The use of this website to ask questions or receive answers does not create an attorney–client relationship between Justia and you, or between any attorney who receives your information or responds to your questions and you, nor is it intended to create such a relationship. Additionally, no responses on this forum constitute legal advice, which must be tailored to the specific circumstances of each case. You should not act upon information provided in Justia Ask A Lawyer without seeking professional counsel from an attorney admitted or authorized to practice in your jurisdiction. Justia assumes no responsibility to any person who relies on information contained on or received through this site and disclaims all liability in respect to such information.
Justia cannot guarantee that the information on this website (including any legal information provided by an attorney through this service) is accurate, complete, or up-to-date. While we intend to make every attempt to keep the information on this site current, the owners of and contributors to this site make no claims, promises, or guarantees about the accuracy, completeness or adequacy of the information contained in or linked to from this site.
