Led Zeppelin guitarist Jimmy Page has strongly opposed the UK Government's proposed Data (Use and Access) Bill, which would allow AI systems to use existing music for training without explicit consent or compensation.

Photo Credit: Avda // CC by 3.0

In a detailed Instagram statement, Page drew from his experience as a 1960s London session musician to emphasize the human elements of musical creation. He stressed that genuine artistry comes from "lived experience, struggles, triumphs, and soul" - qualities that AI cannot replicate.

The guitarist specifically criticized the government's proposed opt-out system, calling it "technically impossible" and "a sham." He argued that allowing AI companies to use creative works without consent or payment amounts to exploitation, not innovation.

Key points from Page's statement:

• AI-generated music lacks the "visceral essence" of human creativity
• The proposed system would allow AI to use artists' work without proper compensation
• Current legislation fails to protect creators' rights effectively
• Musical creation involves human elements that cannot be replicated by algorithms

Page joins over 1,000 other musicians, including Annie Lennox, Damon Albarn, and Kate Bush, who recently protested these changes by releasing a silent album titled "Is This What We Want?" All profits from this album will support Help Musicians charity.

The musician's stance aligns with growing industry concerns about AI's impact on creative rights and the need for proper regulation to protect artists' intellectual property while ensuring fair compensation for their work.

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