SoundExchange’s CEO Michael Huppe Considers The Pros And Cons Of AI

BusinessHollywood & EntertainmentSoundExchange’s CEO Michael Huppe Considers The Pros And Cons Of AIByProf. Mike Alleyne Ph.D,Contributor.Forbes contributors publish independent expert analyses and insights. Professor Mike Alleyne Ph.D is an award-winning author and editor.Follow AuthorMay 22, 2026, 04:27am EDT--:-- / --:--This voice experience is generated by AI. Learn more.This voice experience is generated by AI. Learn more.As artificial intelligence draws increased attention, a recording industry leader provides perspective.SoundExchange President and CEO, Michael Huppe.© Elliott O'DonovanAI’s presence in popular music is raising alarm with concerns about the cloning of copyrighted material and the technology’s potential replacement of artistic creativity at the press of a button. In March 2026, IFPI (the International Federation of the Phonographic Industry) referenced the active engagement of record companies with AI, aiming to achieve a blend between the technology and human artistry. This includes the major label signing of licensing agreements with AI music generator Udio (except for Sony which is still litigating), music catalog companies, and other licensors. Unlike Udio which proposes a “walled garden” approach (a closed ecosystem that prevents users from uploading music from its platform), its rival, Suno, does not yet impose any such limitations. When asked by Forbes about the AI challenges confronting the recording industry, Michael Huppe, the President and CEO of SoundExchange, considered the possibilities.At this critical moment, how great is the AI threat to the recording industry’s intellectual property? AI has the potential to be a threat and also a great opportunity. The threat of uncontrolled AI is very real. The advancements that are being made in AI technology every couple of weeks are remarkable and the output is becoming better and better. It is critical that our culture and our legal systems put in place the guardrails that are ne...