Music Canada: Patrick Rogers’ Industry Outlook 2025
Patrick Rogers, Music Canada’s CEO, delivers a crucial industry outlook for 2025, addressing the pressing issues of AI’s impact on copyright and the evolving landscape of streaming regulations. Rogers emphasizes the necessity for modernized policies to protect artists and foster sustainable growth within the Canadian music industry. He critiques AI companies’ copyright practices, advocating for proper licensing to ensure artists are compensated for the use of their music. Furthermore, News Directory 3 reports on Rogers’ concerns regarding the CRTC’s approach to streaming services and its potential effects on Canadian music investment. He pushes for policies that incentivize global platforms to invest in Canada and support local talent. What’s the next step for the music industry in Canada? Discover what’s next …
Music Canada CEO Addresses AI Copyright and Streaming Regulations
Updated May 26, 2025
Patrick Rogers, CEO of Music Canada, shared his annual “State of the Industry” remarks at departure, focusing on political shifts affecting the global music industry. Rogers addressed key issues such as artificial intelligence,copyright,and streaming regulations,emphasizing the need for updated policies to support Canadian artists and the music industry.
Rogers acknowledged the rapid transformation of the music industry over the past decade,driven by technological advancements. He stressed the importance of adapting to these changes and addressing challenges head-on.
A significant portion of Rogers’ address focused on the impact of AI on copyright. He criticized AI companies for using copyrighted music to train their models without proper licensing or compensation to rights holders. Rogers argued that copyright protection is essential for artists to be paid when their music is used and that the music industry is well-equipped to handle AI licensing due to its experience with streaming.
Rogers also expressed frustration with the canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission’s (CRTC) approach to regulating streaming services. he said the CRTC’s initial decisions risked treating streaming services like conventional radio stations, possibly hindering investment in the Canadian music industry. Rogers emphasized the importance of incentivizing global digital platforms to invest in Canada, supporting Canadian artists, labels, and venues.
The best cultural policy in Canada is one that incentivizes global digital platforms to invest in Canada… We should want Canadian employees, Canadian artist plans, canadian splash pages and Canadian sponsorship.
Music Canada has filed a motion to intervene at the Federal Court of Appeal, advocating for the recognition and valuation of platform investments in Canada as part of the contribution system. Rogers remains hopeful that the CRTC will build a regulatory framework that allows canadian and indigenous artists to compete globally.
What’s next
Music Canada will continue to participate in CRTC consultations throughout the year, working to shape a regulatory system that supports the growth and competitiveness of the Canadian music industry in the digital age.