In May 2025, SoundCloud publicly denied allegations that it uses user-uploaded tracks to train generative AI models. This clarification came after scrutiny of a February 2024 update to its Terms of Service, which many users interpreted as a green light for AI-related uses of their music.
SoundCloud Responds to AI Training Concerns
Marni Greenberg, SoundCloud’s SVP and head of communications, emphasized that the updated terms were intended to reflect the platform’s ongoing use of AI in features like content recommendation, fraud detection, and search—not in generative model training.
Lack of Transparency Sparks Backlash
Although the company insists it has never used user content for AI training, the quiet rollout of the updated terms raised transparency concerns. Critics argue that artists were not sufficiently notified about the changes, which mentioned AI explicitly for the first time.
SoundCloud responded by reaffirming its commitment to artist control, promising not to engage in unauthorized scraping or AI data harvesting. The platform introduced tools like a “no AI” tag to help artists opt out of any future AI-related uses.
AI Tools on SoundCloud: Assistance, Not Exploitation
SoundCloud has embraced AI to enhance creative workflows for artists, but these tools—like Tuney, Soundful, Fadr, and Voice-Swap—are designed to support creation rather than train on user data. The company’s acquisition of Musiio in 2022, a predictive AI platform for identifying potential hits, further showcases its strategy to use AI for enhancing user experience without infringing on artist rights.
Industry-Wide Tensions Over AI and Copyright
SoundCloud’s position stands in contrast to other music giants like Sony Music Group, which has taken aggressive action to block AI developers from using its catalog. In April 2025, Sony sent letters to over 700 AI companies and streaming services, explicitly denying permission for any text/data mining or scraping for AI training purposes.
Looking Ahead: AI With Artist Consent
SoundCloud’s leadership says it will continue developing AI-powered tools with transparency and consent at the forefront. While generative AI remains a controversial topic in the music industry, SoundCloud aims to distinguish itself by giving creators both control and opportunity.
As the music world navigates this new AI frontier, SoundCloud’s approach may serve as a test case for balancing innovation with artist rights.