Jason Isbell and David Lowery have filed a class action lawsuit against AI music startup Suno, led by CEO Mikey Shulman. Rather than pursuing a copyright claim, the musicians are targeting the company on identity grounds, arguing that Suno’s product generates a song, a written description and cover artwork that evoke a specific artist when prompted with that artist’s name.
The distinction matters legally, as identity-based claims sidestep some of the copyright defenses AI companies have used in prior litigation, instead framing the issue around unauthorized use of a musician’s persona and likeness.
The case adds to a growing list of legal challenges facing AI music generators as artists and rights holders test new approaches to holding these platforms accountable.
Read the full story at Music Business Worldwide.