NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — A big step to protect Tennessee musicians from artificial intelligence will be signed into law today in the Music City. Tennessee is the first state in the nation to move forward with this kind of legislation to protect artists from AI.
Governor Bill Lee will sign the Elvis Act (Ensuring Likeness Voice and Image Security) into law at Robert’s Western World on Broadway at noon.
The bill adds protections for songwriters, performers, and other music industry professionals so their voices are not stolen or misused by any artificial intelligence. Artists would be able to sue civilly for damages. Governor Lee says technology continues to evolve and without a law like this, it puts musicians at risk of their art being misused.
Governor Lee says from Beale Street to Broadway and beyond in Tennessee, lawmakers are fighting for legal protections for musicians.
“I’ve never met anyone like Tennie.”
That’s how one neighbor at Stones River Manor in Murfreesboro describes Tennie Fitzpatrick, who has mastered as many as seven different musical instruments. Each day, Tennie shares those talents with residents, workers and visitors. It’s an ability Tennie herself believes is “a gift from God.” That’s because Tennie is blind, and overcame a difficult, abusive childhood. Forrest Sanders shares this truly inspirational story.
- Rhori Johnston
