Navigating the Challenges for Songwriters in the Age of AI

As the music industry faces unprecedented changes due to the rise of artificial intelligence (AI), songwriters are grappling with new challenges that threaten their livelihoods. The advent of generative AI technology has sparked concerns about the future of creativity in music, leading many to question how songwriters can sustain their careers in this evolving landscape.

The music industry has long been known for its unforgiving nature, but the introduction of AI into songwriting processes raises the stakes even higher. According to a report from the International Confederation of Societies of Authors and Composers (CISAC), the global market for AI-generated music is projected to soar to €16 billion by 2028, up from €4 billion in 2023, potentially accounting for 20% of streamed music revenues (CISAC, 2023). This shift challenges traditional songwriting practices and raises questions about the value of human creativity.

During a recent event in central London, emerging artists such as Dove Ellis and Tyler Ballgame showcased their talents, embodying the unique human touch that AI cannot replicate. Ellis, a student at the Royal Northern College of Music, and Ballgame, a Berklee College of Music graduate, illustrate the depth and individuality of songwriting that AI cannot authentically produce. Their performances highlight the importance of personal expression in music, which may be overshadowed by the efficiency of AI-generated tracks.

Tom Gray, lead singer of the band Gomez and chair of the Ivor Novello Academy, has been vocal about the potential risks posed by AI to songwriters. He previously founded the Broken Record campaign, advocating for fair compensation for musicians in the streaming era. Gray warns that while AI can be a useful tool, it poses a "sincere threat" to traditional songwriting, particularly when the industry has not yet established adequate protections for artists. "We do not yet have the kind of robust legislation that will protect songwriters and composers from having their work used unwittingly and without either their consent or their remuneration," Gray stated during a recent interview (Gray, 2025).

The challenges for songwriters extend beyond AI. The current music streaming model presents significant financial hurdles, with record companies taking approximately 41% of streaming income and platforms retaining around 29%, leaving artists with a mere 16% (Music Industry Report, 2023). Such disparities in revenue distribution underscore the need for structural changes within the industry to ensure fair compensation for creators.

Amidst these challenges, there are voices of hope. Charli XCX, during her acceptance speech at the Ivor Novello Awards, encouraged songwriters to embrace their unique perspectives, urging them not to shy away from their distinctive voices. "Don’t be afraid of yourself or your own internal language," she emphasized, affirming the value of authenticity in music creation (Charli XCX, 2023).

The emotional resonance inherent in songwriting is something that AI cannot replicate, as articulated by renowned musician Nick Cave. In a striking response to a fan who shared AI-generated lyrics in his style, Cave lamented the mechanical nature of AI, stating, "With all the love and respect in the world, this track is bullshit and a grotesque mockery of what it is to be human" (Cave, 2023). He highlighted the essential human experience that underpins true artistic expression, emphasizing that songwriting is a "blood and guts business" that demands personal investment and creativity.

As the music industry navigates this complex landscape, the role of songwriters remains crucial. Their ability to connect with audiences through authentic storytelling and personal experiences is irreplaceable. While AI may offer new tools for creation, it is the human touch that resonates deeply with listeners, ensuring that the art of songwriting continues to thrive in the face of technological advancements.

Looking ahead, the future of songwriters in the age of AI will depend on the industry's capacity to adapt and evolve while prioritizing the protection and compensation of its creative forces. As discussions around fair remuneration and intellectual property rights gain momentum, it is imperative that stakeholders unite to safeguard the integrity of songwriting in an increasingly automated world.