ElevenLabs, a unicorn company in the AI voice technology field, has expanded its reach beyond its traditional voice synthesis-focused business by launching a new music generation AI model, "Eleven Music," into the music market. Users can input phrases like "Make some smooth jazz music with powerful lyrics from the '60s perfect for a Friday afternoon," and the AI will generate a complete song, complete with vocals and accompaniment, within minutes.
This model boasts the ability to create music suitable for commercial use, and it's already been used by over 20 customers across TV, film, gaming, and fitness apps. However, the specific names of these customers have not been disclosed.
ElevenLabs announced that it has taken steps to secure legality amid ongoing copyright infringement lawsuits from global music companies. It secured model training data through partnerships with Merlin Network, which represents independent record labels, and Kobalt Music Group, a music publisher. ElevenLabs emphasized that it has not yet partnered with major labels like Universal Music Group, Sony Music, or Warner Music, and that no music from these labels was used in training.
Both Marin and Cobalt claim that they are allowing artists to participate in AI training with their consent, and that they are providing artists with new market opportunities with revenue sharing. Cobalt stated, "This partnership also includes protections against infringement and misuse, making it a favorable agreement for artists."
AI music generation technology is also attracting attention for its cost-saving aspect. Previously, music for commercials and corporate promotional videos required hiring composers or purchasing expensive licenses. Now, custom music can be created at a much lower cost. Consequently, its application is expected to expand across various sectors, including telecommunications companies, automobile brands, app developers, advertising agencies, and gaming and entertainment companies.
