In a groundbreaking move, Tennessee Governor Bill Lee has signed legislation aimed at safeguarding the rights of songwriters, performers, and other music industry professionals from the potential threats posed by artificial intelligence (AI). This landmark decision establishes Tennessee as the first state in the United States to enact measures specifically designed to protect musicians from AI replication.

Scheduled to take effect on July 1, the newly signed bill seeks to ensure that AI tools cannot recreate an artist's voice without their explicit consent. Advocates of the legislation emphasize the importance of safeguarding artists' intellectual property and preserving their unique talents. Tennessee, renowned as the birthplace of country music and a breeding ground for musical legends, aims to maintain its status as a stronghold for the music industry.

Governor Lee, speaking to reporters after signing the bill into law, underlined the significance of the measure, stating, "We employ more people in Tennessee in the music industry than any other state. Artists have intellectual property. They have gifts. They have a uniqueness that is theirs and theirs alone, certainly not artificial intelligence."

Tennessee holds a unique position among states, as it is one of three where the name, photographs, and likeness of individuals are considered property rights rather than rights of publicity. The recently enacted statute, referred to as the Ensuring Likeness, Voice, and Image Security Act or "ELVIS Act," now includes vocal likeness within this scope of protection.

Under the ELVIS Act, the legislation also establishes a new civil action that holds individuals accountable if they publish or perform an individual's voice without permission, as well as utilize technology to reproduce an artist's name, photographs, voice, or likeness without proper authorization.

However, while this legislation marks a significant step forward in protecting musicians' artistic integrity, its effectiveness in preventing AI replication without consent remains to be seen. Supporters, including Governor Lee, acknowledged that despite the broad support from within the music industry and unanimous approval in the Tennessee Statehouse, the legislation is untested. This level of bipartisan agreement is deemed a surprising anomaly amidst the ongoing clashes between the GOP supermajority and a small number of Democrats.

Tennessee's proactive approach in addressing the challenges posed by AI in the music industry may set a precedent for other states to follow suit. As technology continues to evolve, legislators and industry professionals alike recognize the importance of safeguarding artists' rights and ensuring the authenticity of their work in the digital age.