In a groundbreaking move, Tennessee has become the first state in the United States to enact legislation aimed at safeguarding songwriters, performers, and other music industry professionals from the potential risks of artificial intelligence (AI). Governor Bill Lee signed off on the new law, which is set to go into effect on July 1.

The legislation, known as the Ensuring Likeness, Voice, and Image Security Act or "Elvis Act," aims to ensure that AI tools cannot replicate an artist's voice without their consent. Vocal likeness will now be considered a property right, adding to the existing protections for name, photographs, and likeness.

During the signing ceremony, Governor Lee emphasized the importance of recognizing the intellectual property and unique talents possessed by artists. He stated, "Artists have gifts. They have a uniqueness that is theirs and theirs alone, certainly not artificial intelligence." Tennessee, renowned as the birthplace of country music and a hub for musical legends, employs more people in the music industry than any other state, adding significance to this protective legislation.

However, the effectiveness of the new law in shielding artists' works from unauthorized AI replication remains uncertain. Supporters, including Governor Lee, acknowledged that while the legislation had garnered sweeping support from within the music industry and unanimous approval from the Tennessee statehouse, its implementation will be untested.

Many musicians in Tennessee express urgency in addressing the threats posed by AI, as they report instances of AI-generated content being disseminated without their knowledge. Country star Luke Bryan highlighted the issue, stating, "Stuff comes in on my phone, and I can't tell it's not me. It's a real deal now, and hopefully, this will curb it and slow it down."

The decision to name the statute after legendary musician Elvis Presley holds significance beyond a tribute to one of Tennessee's most iconic residents. Presley's death in 1977 ignited a legal battle over the unauthorized use of his name and likeness, leading to the passage of the Personal Rights Protection Act in 1984. This legislation ensured that individual rights, including personality rights, continue beyond death.

By extending these protections to vocal likeness, Tennessee aims to further safeguard the creative works and rights of its artists. The move has been praised for its comprehensive approach to protecting the names, photographs, likenesses, and now vocal attributes of public figures.

As Tennessee pioneers this legislation, it sets a precedent for other states to consider similar measures to protect artists from the potential infringements posed by advancements in AI technology. Only time will tell how effective these initiatives will be, but for now, Tennessee's music industry can take comfort in the fact that their artists' voices will be protected.