DistroKid quietly removes songs following UMG lawsuit over AI music
Key Takeaways
- DistroKid is removing songs without prior notice to artists.
- Takedowns are a direct response to a lawsuit filed by Universal Music Group.
- UMG previously accused DistroKid of running an AI-slop pipeline.
- Legitimate human-made music is reportedly being caught in the purge.
DistroKid has been quietly taking down songs without warning, prompting complaints from frustrated artists on social media. The company confirmed to The Verge that the removals are a direct response to a September lawsuit from Universal Music Group (UMG), which accused DistroKid of facilitating an "AI-slop pipeline."
Despite the focus on artificial intelligence, musicians are reporting that their non-AI works are also being caught in the crackdown. Creators like musician McGwire have stated that multiple songs were removed from streaming services with zero prior communication or explanation from DistroKid.
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