TIDAL cuts off monetization for fully AI-generated music

Music streaming platform TIDAL is the latest to crack down on AI-generated music with a policy that will stop fully AI-generated tracks from making money on its service. The company also said it will use automated tools to remove AI music that impersonates an artist or group.

“We are committed to protecting and rewarding organic creativity to avoid compromising an artist’s ability to connect with and build their fandom from TIDAL subscribers,” wrote Tony Gervino, TIDAL EVP and Editor-in-Chief, in an announcement. He clarified that the policy is not meant to “bash technological advancement,” but rather focuses on rewarding “organic creativity.”

Under the new rules, fully AI-generated music on TIDAL will be identified and tagged, letting listeners see an “AI” badge next to tracks deemed 100% AI. These songs will not be able to be monetized, collect royalties, or be eligible for direct-to-fan sales.

TIDAL’s move follows similar actions by other streaming services like Spotify, Apple Music, Deezer, and Qobuz, which have developed their own policies to address the growing influx of AI tracks. Spotify revamped its policies last year to label AI music and filter spam, while Apple Music also adopted a tagging approach. Deezer, which reports that 44% of all new music uploaded daily is AI-generated, takes a tougher stance by actively removing AI tracks from recommendations and editorial playlists.

The policy will take effect on July 15, 2026, and is described as a “living document” open to changes as the landscape evolves. “Regardless of what you are reading elsewhere, AI’s takeover of the music industry (and your recommendations) isn’t inevitable if we take even greater steps now to monitor and control it,” noted Gervino.