LOS ANGELES (CelebrityAccess) — The Screen Actors Guild – American Federation of Television and Radio Artists, the union representing television and film actors, announced it has reached a tentative multiyear agreement on a successor contract to the SAG-AFTRA National Code of Fair Practice for Sound Recordings
The proposed agreement covers the period from Jan. 1, 2021, to Dec. 31, 2026, and includes Warner Music Group, Sony Music Entertainment, Universal Music Group and Disney Music Group.
Included in the agreement are provisions pertaining to artificial intelligence that limit the terms “artist,” “singer,” and “royalty artist,” to only include humans. The proposed limits will go into effect immediately on ratification.
The contract also includes increased minimums, health and retirement improvements, and an increase in the percentage of streaming revenue to be covered by contributions, among other gains.
“SAG-AFTRA and the music industry’s largest record labels have reached a groundbreaking agreement establishing, for the first time, collective bargaining guardrails assuring singers and recording artists ethical and responsible treatment in the use of artificial intelligence in the music industry. It is a testament to our mutual unwavering commitment to work together to safeguard the rights, dignity and creative freedom of our members,” stated SAG-AFTRA National Executive Director & Chief Negotiator Duncan Crabtree-Ireland.
“This agreement ensures that our members are protected. SAG-AFTRA stands firm in the belief that while technology can enhance the creative process, the essence of music must always be rooted in genuine human expression and experience. We look forward to working alongside our industry partners to foster an environment where innovation serves to elevate, not diminish, the unique value of each artist’s contribution to our rich cultural tapestry,” Crabtree-Ireland added.
The Record Label Negotiating Committee said, “We are pleased to reach this agreement with SAG-AFTRA and continue our strong partnership as we enter this exciting and fast-moving new era for music and artists. Together, we’ll chart a successful course forward, embracing new opportunities and facing our common challenges, strengthened by our shared values and commitment to human artistry.”
The proposed agreement has already been approved by SAG-AFTRA’s Executive Committee and will next go to the union’s full membership for ratification.
