In Nashville, Luke Bryan is thrilled about the cutting-edge security measures implemented for players by artificial intelligence.
The policy, known as the Ensuring Likeness, Voice, and Image Security Act or the “ELVIS Act,” was approved by Tennessee Gov. Bill Lee on Thursday.
Luke Bryan joined the celebration at the historic Broadway venue, Robert’s Western World in Nashville, Tennessee.
Expressing his enthusiasm for the new law, Bryan stated, “What an incredible regulation for the state of Tennessee.” He emphasized the importance of protecting the rights of creators who are pursuing their dreams, acknowledging the effort put forth by policymakers and supporters of the act.
Luke Bryan addressed the audience during the drafting of the ELVIS Act to Protect Voice & Likeness in Age of AI event at Robert’s Western World on March 21, 2024, in Nashville, Tennessee. (Jason Kempin/Getty Images for Human Artistry Campaign)
Understanding Artificial Intelligence (AI)
Reflecting on the complexity of AI, Bryan remarked, “It’s challenging to grasp the advancements in AI, but I believe the ELVIS Act will safeguard our unique accents.”
Following the enactment of the ELVIS Act, Tennessee became one of three states to include vocal image in the protected category, alongside names, photos, and likeness, considered as a property right rather than a publicity right.
The bipartisan bill, unanimously approved in the General Assembly, introduces legal measures against unauthorized use of an individual’s voice or creation of artificial content without proper authorization.
Governor Bill Lee commended the General Assembly for their collaboration in safeguarding the state’s artists and songwriters in the evolving landscape of technology, particularly artificial intelligence.
State Rep. William Lamberth, singer Luke Bryan, Tennessee Gov. Bill Lee, State Senator Jack Johnson, CEO of the Recording Industry Association of America Mitch Glazier, and singer Chris Janson were present at the signing of the ELVIS Act on March 21, 2024. (Jason Kempin/Getty Images for Human Artistry Campaign)
Impact on Hollywood and AI Regulation
During the Hollywood strikes, artificial intelligence emerged as a significant concern, prompting SAG-AFTRA National Executive Director Duncan Crabtree-Ireland to applaud the passage of the ELVIS Act.
Crabtree-Ireland expressed appreciation to Governor Lee for spearheading meaningful protections against unauthorized use of voice and likeness through AI.
The ELVIS Act sets a precedent for policymakers across various industries, aiming to safeguard the images, voices, and likenesses of artists from exploitation by AI without consent or fair compensation.
Given the historical misuse of Elvis Presley’s likeness posthumously, the legislation aptly bears the name ELVIS Act.
Before the enactment of legislation in 1984 to protect personality rights, Elvis Presley’s image was frequently exploited without permission. (Fotos International/Getty Images)
Protection of Personal Rights
The Personal Rights Protection Act of 1984 established by the Tennessee Legislature emphasizes the inheritance and perpetual nature of persona rights, safeguarding individuals from unauthorized use of their likeness.
Similar AI-related legislation is under discussion in Congress, with artists like Lainey Wilson testifying about the detrimental impact of AI on personal identity and creative work.
Wilson stressed the importance of protecting artists’ voices and likenesses from exploitation, highlighting the need for responsible AI usage to prevent unauthorized replication.
Lainey Wilson testified before a congressional subcommittee in February regarding the challenges artists face due to AI manipulation. (Neilson Barnard/Getty Images for The Recording Academy)
Conclusion
The misuse of AI poses a threat to personal dignity and artistic integrity, underscoring the necessity for stringent regulations to protect individuals from unauthorized exploitation. As technology continues to evolve, it is crucial to ensure that AI is utilized responsibly to preserve the integrity of creative works and personal identities.
