UMG’s Executive Vice President urges artist-centric AI at UN summit
Michael Nash, who is also UMG's Chief Digital Officer, made a case for ethical AI in music, highlighting copyright protection & industry-backed innovation among others
At the recent United Nations AI for Good Summit in Geneva on July 8, Executive Vice President and Chief Digital Officer of Universal Music Group (UMG) Michael Nash shared the company’s perspective on AI and its role in the future of music.
The summit, which drew over 13,000 delegates including policymakers, technologists, and cultural leaders, served as a platform for critical discussions on how AI can support the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals.
In his speech, Nash outlined how the world’s top music rights company is tackling AI, and why he believes “market-based solutions are the answer” to its challenges in music.
An article published on Music Business Worldwide, highlighted four key takeaways in Nash's keynote.
First, he challenged anti-copyright narratives in tech, stating: “Copyright is not the enemy of innovation, quite the opposite.” He referenced Steve Jobs and Apple’s iTunes model as a pivotal example of innovation built on respecting rights.
Second, Nash reaffirmed UMG’s core AI strategy: “Universal’s strategy on AI is based on a simple philosophy: centre the conversation on artists.”
He emphasised that protecting artists’ rights is key to developing sustainable and ethical AI tools, adding that innovation should begin from a foundation grounded in copyright.
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Third, he highlighted the use of AI in artist-led projects, such as The Beatles’ ‘Now and Then’, which isolated John Lennon’s vocals from an old cassette and went on to win a Grammy.
Other projects included Apple Music’s Sound Therapy initiative and an upcoming Keith Urban video, both developed using ethically trained AI systems.
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Finally, he underlined how audiences continue to prioritise human artistry, dismissing hype around AI acts like Velvet Sundown, noting they make up a fraction of actual consumption.
“The vast majority, 70-75%, say real artists matter the most,” he revealed, based on new consumer data, reinforcing that fans still connect most with human stories and expression.
[Via Music Business Worldwide]
Amira Waworuntu is Mixmag Asia’s Managing Editor, follow her on Instagram.
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