the Atlantic published a report uncovering the use of over 21 million music recordings across four datasets to train artificial intelligence systems. The investigation revealed that artists such as Bad Bunny, Nirvana, Squirrel Flower, and the Cramps were included, highlighting the widespread impact of this issue. One of the most vocal critics is SZA, who has taken to social media to condemn the exploitation.
In a series of posts on her Instagram and finsta, SZA shared a screenshot showing that 238 of her songs, some of which had not yet been released, were used to train AI models. Her message was direct:
Jus checked and music Ai has Trained off 238 of my songs. Im certain some unreleased. If your a musician and you support this degenerate shit? Your disgusting and there’s NOTHING YOU COULD EVER SAY TO ME TO MAKE THIS OKAY. I hope u have the life u deserve.
She further emphasized her concerns by resharing a post from her niece, VANS, who had dedicated herself to music production and performance. SZA expressed her frustration over the theft of unreleased material:
This actually what set me off.. this post is from my niece @thatsvans. Just A baby 20 something Taught herself how to play guitar, produce,write and sing all by herself. Working her ass off !!! Doing the real due diligence. Not even using ME to her advantage. Now Her unreleased song that she teased and others were stolen.. before she can even get off the ground? It’s not right. It’s not fair. if u care ab the future ..Protect the youth
SZA also addressed Diplo, a prominent advocate for AI adoption among artists. She criticized his stance that artists must either embrace AI or “give up.” Diplo has previously expressed enthusiasm for Suno’s AI tools, stating that the technology is improving in its ability to manipulate and separate stems from songs. Additionally, Diplo is an investor in Aaru, an AI company, and has praised Suno’s fundraising round, which reportedly involved “leading artists, songwriters and producers.”
However, SZA’s post raised questions about Diplo’s potential financial interests in AI ventures, as there was no public confirmation of his investment in Suno. She also highlighted the disparities in how AI technology affects different communities, noting that Black artists, despite their cultural influence, lack legal protections and are disproportionately targeted.
Producer Kenneth Blume, known as Kenny Beats, shared his own message of condemnation, addressing Suno directly:
Hey
@suno You are true losers. Whoever’s running this account, and your boss, and their bosses boss. I can’t imagine going into work daily knowing you are stealing from countless struggling musicians. I can’t imagine being proud to earn a paycheck obliterating the work and dreams of artists. Get fucked, every single one of you
The controversy extends beyond SZA’s statements, with Diplo also facing criticism for his comments about Tyler, The Creator’s expressed disdain for data centers in Georgia. Meanwhile, SZA’s posts include images and a YouTube video, as well as a Twitter/X quote from Kenny Beats.