According to AFP, former Beatles member Paul McCartney will release a silent album next month to express his dissatisfaction with the proposed copyright law amendments by the UK government. This action aims to respond to the potential negative impact of these bills on artists, especially regarding the use of copyrighted works by artificial intelligence (AI) for training.

McCartney contributed a silent piece titled "Bonus Track" to the album, named "Is This What We Want?" The track is 2 minutes and 45 seconds long and actually records continuous clicking sounds in an empty studio. In addition to McCartney, renowned artists such as Hans Zimmer and Kate Bush also participated in the project to draw public attention to the government's proposal.

The organizers of the project stated in a statement that the proposed changes would alter the UK's copyright system, allowing tech giants and AI companies to easily use artists' works without authorization or payment. This change not only threatens artists' livelihoods but also undermines the basic principles of copyright, requiring artists to actively "opt out" of having their works used.

This initiative has received widespread support, with over 1000 artists participating in the creation of the silent album, including notable figures such as Annie Lennox, Damon Albarn, and Jamiroquai. Many artists and producers in the UK have expressed concerns about the impact of AI on the creative industry, believing that the government's proposal would make artistic works more vulnerable to AI exploitation. A study by UK Music showed that two-thirds of artists and producers are worried that AI could threaten their career development.

At the same time, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer stated that the government needs to find a balance between copyright and AI, noting that AI technology also brings new opportunities. In response, Elton John previously called on the government to protect artists' rights, emphasizing that artistic works should not be used arbitrarily.

Key Points:

🎤 Paul McCartney will release a silent album to protest the proposed changes to the UK copyright law.

🎶 Over 1000 artists have participated in this project, highlighting the potential threat of AI to the creative industry.

⚖️ The proposed copyright law amendments will make it easier for AI companies to use artistic works without authorization.