TORONTO — In a recent statement, Celine Dion has alerted her fans about the emergence of “fake” songs circulating online that utilize artificial intelligence to imitate her voice. This warning comes from her representatives, who shared the information on her official Instagram account.
The representatives emphasized that these unauthorized recordings, which claim to be a replication of Dion’s voice, are “not approved and are not songs from her official discography.” They revealed that these recordings have appeared across various digital platforms, creating confusion among listeners.
Although Dion's team did not specify the titles of these songs, there have been notable instances where fake recordings surfaced on platforms like YouTube. One such recording is a cover of the gospel song “Heal Me Lord,” which has gained significant traction, accruing over one million views. Other examples include AI-generated renditions of duets, featuring Dion's voice alongside that of Whitney Houston on “I Will Always Love You” and a collaboration with Charlie Puth on “See You Again.”
Celine Dion is not alone in facing the impact of AI technology. Several other prominent Canadian artists, including The Weeknd, Alanis Morissette, and Shawn Mendes, have also experienced unauthorized AI-generated songs portraying their famous voices. This phenomenon has prompted discussions among musicians regarding the need for legal reforms to protect artists' voices and intellectual property.
On the other hand, some artists have welcomed the advances in AI technology. A notable example is Toronto rapper Drake, who employed an AI version of the late rapper Tupac Shakur’s voice last year for one of his diss tracks aimed at Kendrick Lamar. This indicates a divide within the music community regarding the ethics and application of AI in music production.
Dion's current health struggles, particularly with stiff person syndrome—a rare neurological disorder affecting her vocal capabilities—add a layer of urgency to her message. Despite her challenges, she made a surprise appearance at the Olympic Games in Paris last year, performing Édith Piaf’s classic “L’Hymne à l’amour,” showcasing her enduring talent and passion for music.
As artificial intelligence continues to evolve and infiltrate the music industry, artists like Celine Dion are standing firm in protecting their legacy and artistic integrity. The rise of unauthorized AI-generated songs raises significant questions about copyright laws and the ownership of one’s voice in the digital age.
