However, establishing payment structures for artists using generative AI remains a challenge, as the calculations differ significantly from traditional streaming models.

Sony Music has been in discussions with over 800 companies regarding ethical product creation, content protection, and other strategies related to AI.

He highlighted the importance of collaboration in the AI space, noting that currently there is insufficient cooperation among stakeholders, except for a few ethically focused entities.

Stringer expressed optimism about reaching agreements with AI companies in a free market, aiming to demonstrate to governments that a viable marketplace exists for music rights.

This optimism comes in light of ongoing legal challenges, as Suno and Udio have been using copyrighted music from major labels, including Sony, without licensing, leading to lawsuits filed by Sony, Universal Music Group, and Warner Music Group for copyright infringement in June 2024.

Stringer referenced the U.S. Copyright Office's stance against the unauthorized commercial use of copyrighted works by AI companies, anticipating changes in the industry's approach to copyright licensing as a result.

During a presentation on June 13, 2025, Rob Stringer, CEO of Sony Music, discussed the evolving landscape of AI in the music industry, following recent talks with generative AI companies Suno and Udio about licensing agreements.

Stringer announced plans for Sony Music to engage in deals for new music AI products in 2025, emphasizing a collaborative approach to shaping the future of music technology.

He compared the current AI revolution to the shift from music ownership to streaming, stressing that artists and songwriters will share in revenues generated from AI outputs from the outset.

Stringer underscored the need for clear remuneration models, stating that creators whose work contributes to AI training must be fairly compensated as generative AI evolves.