Led Zeppelin guitarist Jimmy Page has voiced strong opposition to the UK Government's proposed opt-out system for AI training using existing music. Page argues this system would enable AI to exploit artists without proper compensation or consent.

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 the creative process involves spontaneous improvisation and human ingenuity that AI cannot replicate.

Key points from Page's statement:

• AI-generated music lacks the authentic essence that comes from lived experience
• The proposed system would allow AI companies to use artists' work without consent or payment
• The government's opt-out system is technically impossible to implement effectively
• AI shouldn't be allowed to monetize human creativity without explicit consent and fair compensation

"Music is not a product of data," Page stated. "It is an evocation, a defiance of logic, a collision of time and place and soul."

Page joins over 1,000 prominent musicians, including Annie Lennox, Damon Albarn, and Kate Bush, who recently protested these proposed changes to UK copyright law. These artists released a silent album titled "Is This What We Want?" with proceeds benefiting the Help Musicians charity.

The statement comes as the UK Government concludes its public consultation phase of the Data (Use and Access) Bill, which would significantly impact how AI companies can use existing creative works for training purposes.

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