TIDAL is stopping money from being made on fully AI-generated tracks.
The streaming service says it will tag any song that is 100% artificial with an “AI” badge. Those tracks cannot collect royalties or be sold directly to fans. The platform will also use automated tools to delete music that tries to copy the voice of a specific artist or group.
Tony Gervino, TIDAL’s EVP and Editor-in-Chief, wrote that the move protects organic creativity. He noted many subscribers told the company they do not want to hear wholly AI music. Gervino added that the policy is not an attack on technology, but a way to reward human artists.
The rules start on July 15, 2026. Gervino called the policy a living document that will change as the situation develops.
Other services
TIDAL is not alone in this approach. Spotify updated its rules last year to label AI music and filter spam, while admitting tools are still used in the creation process. Apple Music uses a similar tagging system.
Deezer has taken a harder line. It says 44% of new music uploaded daily is AI-generated. The service removes AI tracks from recommendations and editorial playlists. It also shares its detection technology with rivals and offers a tool to check if AI music has entered your playlists on other platforms.
TIDAL’s move to demonetise AI tracks could test whether removing the revenue stream slows the volume of uploads. Many listeners are reportedly uninterested in the content.
Gervino said the industry takeover is not inevitable if companies monitor and control the technology more closely.
What it means
For people making music, the financial incentive to produce 100% AI tracks disappears on this platform. Creators can still use AI tools as part of a workflow, but the final output cannot be fully artificial if it is to earn money or reach fans directly. The badge system ensures listeners know exactly what they are hearing.
