Tupac Estate Considers Lawsuit Against AI-Generated Drake Song

Canadian rapper Drake is facing potential legal action from the estate of Tupac Shakur following the unauthorized use of an AI-generated version of Tupac's voice in his recent track, “Taylor Made Freestyle.” This song, which serves as a diss track directed at fellow rapper Kendrick Lamar, incorporates synthetic voices of both Tupac and Snoop Dogg, sparking controversy and concern over the implications of AI technologies in music.

In a stark statement, attorneys representing Tupac's estate expressed their profound disappointment regarding this infringement. They assert that the use of Tupac’s voice was not only unauthorized but also a significant misappropriation of the late rapper’s legacy, who was tragically killed in 1996. The legal notice demands that the song be removed from all streaming platforms to prevent further damage.

The cease and desist letter highlights that the release is a “flagrant violation” of Tupac's publicity rights and those of his estate. It specifically mentions the disrespect inherent in using Tupac's voice to provoke Kendrick Lamar, who has always shown respect for Tupac and his contributions to the hip-hop genre. The AI-generated Tupac even encourages Lamar to respond to Drake, saying, “You seem a little nervous about all the publicity. You asked for the smoke, now it seems you too busy for the smoke,” further complicating matters.

Unsurprisingly, the legal notice points out that the estate would never have granted permission for such a project. “The unauthorized, equally dismaying use of Tupac’s voice against Kendrick Lamar compounds the insult,” it stated, emphasizing the importance of honoring the contributions of influential artists.

The controversy surrounding “Taylor Made Freestyle” has garnered significant public interest, as seen by its more than 750,000 views on YouTube. The estate of Tupac Shakur, administered by Amaru Entertainment—a record label established by his mother after his death—claims that the song has not only misled the public into thinking the estate endorses the track but has also harmed the market for their own AI-related projects.

Adding to the intrigue, Snoop Dogg expressed his disbelief over the use of his voice in the diss track on his Instagram, questioning the circumstances surrounding its creation: “They did what? When? How… What’s going on… I’m going back to bed.” This reaction underscores the broader concerns within the music industry about the implications of AI on artistic integrity and authorization.

As discussions continue regarding the role of artificial intelligence in creative fields, the potential legal ramifications of this case may serve as a crucial touchpoint for regulating the burgeoning intersection of technology and music. The outcome could set important precedents regarding the ownership and use of an artist's likeness and voice in the digital age.