Members of R.E.M. — Michael Stipe, Mike Mills, Bill Berry, and Peter Buck — have joined forces with Billy Corgan from Smashing Pumpkins, Bonnie Raitt, OK Go, and more in a new campaign against the misuse of artificial intelligence. The initiative, called Stealing Isn’t Innovation, is supported by the Human Artistry Campaign and criticizes big tech companies for using copyrighted material without permission.
The campaign’s message is clear: “Stealing our work is not innovation. It’s theft – plain and simple.” The website emphasizes that there are better ways for AI companies to operate, such as through licensing deals and partnerships that respect creators’ rights.
The campaign aims to show that it’s possible to advance AI technology while also protecting the rights of artists. Other musicians backing this cause include MGMT, Cyndi Lauper, Chaka Khan, CAKE, Susan Tedeschi and Derek Trucks, Warren Haynes, The Zombies, and Simon Le Bon from Duran Duran.
This movement highlights the importance of respecting the hard work of artists and finding ethical ways to use their creations. Fans of music and creativity are encouraged to support this important cause.
