Led Zeppelin guitarist Jimmy Page has strongly criticized the UK Government's proposed Data (Use and Access) Bill, which would implement an opt-out system for AI to use existing music in its training materials.

Photo Credit: Avda // CC by 3.0

Drawing from his extensive experience as a session musician in 1960s London and his journey with Led Zeppelin, Page emphasizes that true musical creativity stems from human collaboration, improvisation, and lived experience - elements that AI cannot replicate.

Key points from Page's statement:

• The proposed opt-out system is technically impossible to implement effectively
• AI-generated content lacks the authentic human elements that define true artistry
• Current proposals would allow AI companies to use creative works without consent or compensation
• The system would effectively legalize exploitation of artists' work without proper protection

Page warns that allowing AI to freely use existing music for training threatens both artists' rights and cultural heritage. He argues that explicit consent and fair compensation should be mandatory for any AI use of human-created content.

His protest joins a broader movement of over 1,000 musicians, including Annie Lennox, Damon Albarn, and Kate Bush, who recently released a silent album titled "Is This What We Want?" to protest the proposed changes. All profits from this album will support the Help Musicians charity.

The public consultation phase of the Data (Use and Access) Bill is now closing, with artists united in calling for stronger protections against AI exploitation of creative works.

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