Ed Sheeran's Sapphire in Arijit Singh's Voice: AI Recreation Goes Viral – Legal Questions Arise
Ed Sheeran recently released the video for Sapphire, a collaboration featuring Indian singer Arijit Singh. Shortly after, an AI-generated version of the song surfaced online, sung entirely in Arijit Singh's voice. This AI rendition has amassed over one million views, sparking debate about the legality and ethics of using AI to mimic artists' voices.
Release of Sapphire
On June 6, Ed Sheeran unveiled the video for Sapphire, which he had teased for some time. The video was shot in a guerrilla style during his trip to India and showcases candid moments like riding auto rickshaws and interacting with fans. Indian audiences were particularly excited because Arijit Singh appears in the video, driving Ed Sheeran on a scooter through his hometown of Jiaganj in West Bengal’s Murshidabad district.
Ed Sheeran referred to Arijit as "the final jigsaw piece" of the song and hinted at an upcoming Punjabi version featuring the Bollywood singer. Meanwhile, a recreated AI version of Sapphire emerged on YouTube, uploaded by user Sing Rajveera on June 7. This version features Arijit Singh's voice throughout, but the accompanying video consists only of an AI-generated image of both artists floating on screen while the audio plays.
Mixed Social Media Responses
Reactions on social media have been divided. Some listeners praised the AI version, noting how closely it resembles the original. Comments like “I just realized how good Ed Sheeran is, they almost sound identical” and “Both versions are best but I like this one most” were common. Fans of Arijit Singh expressed admiration for his voice, with remarks such as “Arjit the voice of India” and “No one can beat Arijit Singh.”
However, others criticized the use of AI in music. Some argued that AI cannot replicate the emotional depth and artistry of a human artist. Comments included “AI can't create the magic Arijit does” and “AI just stole our feelings slowly.” Several users emphasized that while the AI version is interesting, it lacks the genuine emotion that defines the original song.
Legal Implications of Using AI to Mimic Arijit Singh’s Voice
The issue goes beyond public opinion. In 2024, Arijit Singh filed a legal case against unauthorized AI use of his voice and image. The Bombay High Court ruled in his favor, recognizing such use as “technological exploitation.” The court granted interim relief to Singh, reinforcing that using someone’s voice or likeness without consent violates their personality rights.
The ruling highlighted that unauthorized use undermines an individual’s control over their identity and prevents them from stopping commercial or deceptive practices. This sets a legal precedent that unauthorized AI-generated recreations of an artist’s voice or image could face injunctions and liability.
What This Means for Legal Professionals
- Personality rights now explicitly cover digital and AI-generated likenesses, strengthening artists' control over their identity in the digital space.
- Unauthorized AI recreations can be challenged as a violation of copyright and privacy, with courts willing to provide interim relief.
- Legal frameworks must keep pace with AI technology to protect creators from exploitation and unauthorized commercial use.
For legal practitioners, staying informed about emerging AI cases is essential. This includes understanding how existing laws on personality rights, copyright, and intellectual property apply to AI-generated content.
For more on AI-related legal education and resources, visit Complete AI Training.
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