(Reuters) – Hollywood performers and media professionals have reached preliminary deals with major record labels such as Warner Music Group and Sony (NYSE:) Music Entertainment, which includes raising the minimum wage and protecting against the use of artificial intelligence.
The deal covers a five-year period from 2021 to 2026 and was unanimously approved by SAG-AFTRA’s executive committee, which represents about 160,000 actors and other media professionals, the union said in a statement on its website.
AI has become a major issue in the entertainment industry, and the issue was at the center of negotiations between SAG-AFTRA and major studios last year, which finally resulted in a contract being signed in November after a months-long strike.
The music industry has particularly struggled with songs created using generative artificial intelligence, a technology that allows internet users to easily imitate artists’ voices, often without their consent.
The SAG-AFTRA union said pre-release deals with record labels require both consent and compensation before releasing a song that uses a digital copy of an artist’s voice.
He added that the terms “entertainer”, “singer” and “royal entertainer” can only refer to people according to the agreement.
“This agreement ensures the protection of our members. While technology can enhance the creative process, the essence of music should always be rooted in authentic human expression and experience,” said Duncan Crabtree-Ireland, SAG-AFTRA National Executive Director and Chief Negotiator.
Other highlights of the agreement include improvements to health care and retirement options, and an increase in the percentage of streaming income that will be covered by contributions.
Members’ final vote on ratification is expected to take place in the next few weeks.