SoundCloud is under scrutiny after a controversial clause in its updated terms raised fears over AI training—but the platform is reaffirming its commitment to creator control.
As the music industry grapples with the growing presence of artificial intelligence, SoundCloud has become the latest focal point in the debate over how AI intersects with artistry, ethics, and user rights.
A recently highlighted clause in the platform’s February 2024 terms of service sparked concern across the independent music community. The clause suggested that user-uploaded content could potentially be used to “inform, train, develop or serve as input to artificial intelligence.” For many artists, this language struck a nerve, raising fears that their work might unknowingly be repurposed to train generative AI models.
In response to mounting anxiety, SoundCloud issued a clear statement, distancing itself from such practices and reiterating its artist-first mission.
“SoundCloud has never used artist content to train AI models, nor do we develop AI tools or allow third parties to scrape or use SoundCloud content for AI training purposes,” a company spokesperson said. “We’ve also implemented technical safeguards, including a ‘no AI’ tag to explicitly prohibit unauthorized use.”
Instead, SoundCloud emphasized that any AI it engages with is focused solely on enhancing user experiences—through tools like personalized music recommendations, fraud detection, and improved content organization. These tools, it says, are aligned with licensing agreements and ethical standards.
The platform also cited Musiio, a technology acquired by SoundCloud in 2022, as an example of how AI is being used strictly to support artist discovery, not to power generative tools that create music.
Still, the controversy arrives amid heightened tension in the music world over how AI is used. With lawsuits from major labels and growing calls for legislative protection, the boundaries of fair use and consent in AI remain hotly contested.
SoundCloud is positioning itself as a transparent, responsible player in this evolving landscape. Its leadership insists that any AI initiatives will prioritize artist consent, fair attribution, and compensation—reinforcing its reputation as a home for independent creators.
The company’s statement reads:
“SoundCloud has always been and will remain artist-first. Our focus is on empowering artists with control, clarity, and meaningful opportunities to grow. We believe AI, when developed responsibly, can expand creative potential—especially when guided by principles of consent, attribution, and fair compensation.”
As the industry continues to explore the intersection of technology and creativity, SoundCloud’s message is clear: the future of music must be built with artists—not around them.