Published: May 13, 2025, 07:06 PM
Elton John, Dua Lipa, and Coldplay are among the over 400 artists who have signed a letter seeking to update copyright laws in the face of A.I.
As artificial intelligence reshapes industries worldwide, some of the UK’s most iconic artists-including Dua Lipa, Elton John, Coldplay, and Paul McCartney-are urging the government to safeguard the future of human creativity. Over 400 artists have signed an open letter to Prime Minister Keir Starmer, calling for an urgent update to copyright laws in light of AI`s growing influence on the creative sector.
The letter stresses the foundational role of copyright in the creative economy, highlighting its importance to the livelihoods of 2.4 million people across the UK. It warns that without proper legal safeguards, AI could undermine the rights and income of creators by using their work without consent or compensation.
The collective is backing the proposed Data (Use and Access) Bill, introduced by Baroness Beeban Kidron. The bill, which faces a critical vote in the House of Lords, would compel AI developers to be transparent when using copyrighted content to train their models. It aims to establish a legal framework for licensing and ensure that creators are protected and compensated fairly in an increasingly AI-driven landscape.
“We’re not against innovation,” the letter clarifies. “The creative industries have always embraced new technologies. But innovation must not come at the expense of those who make art, music, film, and literature.” It adds that transparency and accountability must be at the heart of the UK`s AI policy if it is to support long-term creative growth.
The movement follows a broader trend of resistance among global artists and media groups, who formed the Creative Rights in AI Coalition last December. They fear that without robust legal updates, the unchecked use of AI could erode the intellectual property foundations that sustain creative industries.
In a passionate appeal earlier this year, Paul McCartney stated, “If there’s such a thing as a government, it’s their responsibility to protect creative thinkers. If not, you risk losing them-and the art that makes the world worth living in.”
With AI increasingly capable of mimicking music, literature, and visual art, the artists are drawing a clear line: technology should enhance human creativity, not replace or exploit it.
