Legendary Musician Paul McCartney Releases Silent Protest Album Against AI Copyright Theft

As of November 17th, 2025, legendary musician Paul McCartney has taken a stand against the growing threat of AI companies exploiting artists' intellectual property. The 83-year-old has released a silent track as part of a protest album titled "Is This What We Want?", which features other renowned artists like Sam Fender, Kate Bush, and Hans Zimmer.

The album, which will be pressed on vinyl and released later this month, is a powerful statement against the UK government's plans to potentially allow AI firms to use creative content without approval or paying royalties. McCartney, along with a growing coalition of musicians and artists, are campaigning to persuade the government to protect the interests of British creatives over the demands of US tech companies.

The album's track listing spells out a clear message: "the British government must not legalise music theft to benefit AI companies." This comes as the government faces pressure from the Trump administration to adopt a more AI-friendly regulatory approach, even as it tries to balance the needs of the UK's £125 billion creative industries.

With the government's proposals not expected to be debated in parliament until 2026, artists are taking matters into their own hands. McCartney's silent contribution, which features tape hiss and indeterminate clattering, symbolizes the potential silencing of original music if AI companies are allowed to exploit creators' work. The protest album aims to raise awareness and spur the government into action to safeguard the future of the country's vibrant music scene.