Ed Sheeran's 'Sapphire' AI Cover by Arijit Singh Raises Legal Questions

On June 6, 2025, Ed Sheeran released the music video for his latest single, "Sapphire," featuring renowned Indian singer Arijit Singh. The video, acclaimed for its guerrilla-style filming during Sheeran's visit to India, showcases scenes of him interacting with fans and exploring the local culture. Singh, who is considered one of India's most talented vocalists, is featured prominently, adding a unique cultural dimension to the song. Sheeran praised Singh as "the final jigsaw piece" necessary for the track, hinting at an upcoming Punjabi version involving Singh as well.

However, the release of an AI-generated version of the song, entirely sung by Singh's synthesized voice, has ignited discussions regarding the implications of artificial intelligence in the music industry. Uploaded by YouTube user Sing Rajveera on June 7, 2025, the AI version of "Sapphire" has amassed over one million views, despite the absence of an actual video. Instead, it features a still image of Singh and Sheeran with the audio playing in the background.

The reactions on social media have been polarized. Some users expressed excitement over the AI rendition, noting its striking resemblance to the original, while others voiced concerns about the emotional depth that AI may lack compared to human artistry. As one user commented, "AI just stole our feelings slowly," highlighting the apprehension around technological innovations in creative fields.

Legal implications surrounding this AI recreation are significant, especially given Arijit Singh's previous legal actions against unauthorized uses of his voice. In 2024, Singh successfully filed a lawsuit against AI platforms for mimicking his voice without permission, which the Bombay High Court deemed as "technological exploitation". The court's ruling emphasized the violation of personality rights, indicating that using an individual's voice or image without consent infringes on their ability to control their identity and its commercial use.

According to Dr. Priya Sharma, a legal expert specializing in intellectual property rights at the University of Mumbai, "The use of AI to replicate an artist's voice raises fundamental questions about copyright and the moral rights of artists. The law must evolve to protect creators in this rapidly changing landscape." This sentiment is echoed by industry leaders who are advocating for clearer regulations regarding AI's role in creative industries.

The conversation also extends to the broader implications of AI in music. Professor Mark Thompson, a musicologist at Berklee College of Music, asserts, "While AI can replicate sounds, it cannot replicate the lived experiences and emotions that human artists bring to their work. This distinction is what makes music a powerful form of expression."

As the debate continues, it is clear that the intersection of AI technology and music presents both opportunities and challenges. While AI-generated music can democratize access to music creation, it simultaneously risks undermining the authenticity and emotional resonance that human artists provide. Moving forward, the music industry must navigate these complexities to ensure that technological advancements do not come at the expense of artistic integrity.

With the emergence of AI-generated content in music, it is imperative for artists, legal experts, and industry stakeholders to engage in ongoing dialogue regarding the implications of such technologies. As the landscape continues to evolve, it is essential to establish frameworks that protect artists' rights while fostering innovation in the music industry. The future of music may very well depend on how these critical issues are addressed in the coming years.