Suno's Label Partnerships Spark Mixed Reactions from Artist Managers and Lawyers
Suno's recent partnership with BMG and other labels has ignited debate among artists and their representatives. While some like Mötley Crüe support the deals, others express concerns about AI's impact on music. The opt-in clause allows artists to decide whether their music is used for AI training.
Suno's v6 models launched September 9 amid ongoing litigation from Universal Music Group and Sony Music, which filed a joint lawsuit September 18 adding 61,000 songs to their case. The platform reports 2 million paying subscribers and 100 million users who have generated songs, while carrying a $5.4 billion valuation.
Warner Music Group dropped its own lawsuit against Suno last November before partnering, while Believe's CEO insists artists "must consent first" before inclusion. Attorney Dina LaPolt praised BMG's opt-in structure but confirmed none of her clients would participate, highlighting the divide between label enthusiasm and artist skepticism.
These deals could reshape how musicians control their creative work in the AI era. Artists who opt in may gain new revenue streams, but those who refuse could find themselves at a competitive disadvantage as labels prioritize AI-friendly acts. The opt-in model may set an industry precedent, though ongoing lawsuits suggest the legal landscape remains unsettled. Fans may ultimately encounter more AI-generated music, potentially altering how they discover and value human-created work.