Tennessee recently made history by signing the ELVIS Act into law, becoming the first state in the United States to protect musicians from artificial intelligence (AI). The legislation, officially known as the Ensuring Likeness, Voice, and Image Security Act of 2024, recognizes an individual’s voice as a property right, similar to their name and likeness.
This groundbreaking move was celebrated at a special ceremony in Nashville’s Broadway district, attended by various supporters, including country stars Luke Bryan and Chris Janson, Recording Academy CEO Harvey Mason Jr., and a bipartisan coalition of Tennessee lawmakers.
Under the ELVIS Act, individuals who use someone’s voice for advertising or fundraising purposes without permission may face legal action. However, there are exceptions for instances like news broadcasts, public affairs discussions, and creative works like satire or parody.
Harvey Mason Jr. emphasized the importance of protecting human creators in the era of AI music-making, applauding the passage of the ELVIS Act as a significant milestone. Governor Bill Lee expressed pride in Tennessee’s artistic heritage and the legal protections now in place for artists and songwriters.
This new law sets a precedent for safeguarding the hard work of musicians and ensuring that their voices are respected and valued in the digital age.
