Spotify Introduces “Verified by Spotify” Badge to Distinguish Human Artists from AI
Spotify has launched a new feature called “Verified by Spotify” that aims to differentiate real artists from artificial intelligence-generated music on the platform. This move comes as AI-generated music has gained popularity, accumulating millions of streams.
According to Spotify’s website, artists awarded the green badge with a check mark must demonstrate consistent listener engagement over time and have a noticeable presence both on and off the platform. This includes factors such as active social media accounts, live performance schedules, and merchandise sales.
To be eligible for verification, artists must maintain at least 10,000 active listeners for three consecutive months. Spotify also considers artists who have significantly impacted music culture and history or are gaining momentum and relevance in the industry.
Andrew Cash, CEO of the Canadian Independent Music Association (CIMA), expressed that the implementation of a verification system was inevitable to distinguish between AI-generated and authentic music, satisfying both artists and fans. However, Cash raised concerns about potential obstacles the verification criteria could pose for emerging independent artists seeking wider recognition.
The “Verified by Spotify” badge has already been assigned to renowned artists such as Madonna, BTS, and Bad Bunny, along with Canadian talents like The Beaches, Cameron Whitcomb, and Jeremy Dutcher. Notably, some artists like bbno$, Joni Mitchell, and R. Kelly are yet to receive verification.
While Spotify’s verification system is evolving, the platform currently excludes AI-generated content from being eligible for review or approval. In contrast, other platforms like Apple Music and Deezer have introduced features to help users identify AI-generated music. Artists like Taylor Swift have also taken legal steps to safeguard their music and image from potential AI misuse.
As Spotify continues to roll out the verification badges, it remains to be seen how this initiative will impact the music industry’s landscape, particularly for smaller artists striving to establish their presence in the digital realm.
