FKA Twigs Crafts AI Deepfake Of Herself To Outline Importance Of Regulation
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FKA Twigs appeared before the Senate Judiciary Subcommittee on Intellectual Property on Tuesday, sparking a debate on artificial intelligence and its impact on artist rights. The British singer-songwriter’s testimony coincided with the subcommittee’s review of the bipartisan Nurture Originals, Foster Art, and Keep Entertainment Safe Act (NO FAKES Act), which aims to strengthen legal protections against the unauthorized use of deepfakes that exploit artists’ voice and likeness.
In a surprising twist, Twigs revealed that, over the past year, she’d been developing her own AI deepfake—a digital replica programmed to emulate her personality and even speak multiple languages using her voice. This avatar could potentially manage online interactions with fans, freeing Twigs to focus on music creation.
While this project aligns with Twigs’ desire for greater fan engagement and efficient online management, she also leveraged the platform to advocate for stricter regulations. She emphasized the importance of artists retaining control over their likeness and intellectual property in the digital age.
“My art is the canvas on which I paint my identity and the sustaining foundation of my livelihood. It is the essence of my being,” she shared in a written testimony. “Yet this is under threat. AI cannot replicate the depth of my life journey, yet those who control it hold the power to mimic the likeness of my art, to replicate it and falsely claim my identity and intellectual property.”
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Twigs’ appearance highlighted the complex nature of AI technology. While it presents a powerful tool for artists who can utilize it with consent, it also carries significant risks if used without authorization. She underscored the need for legal frameworks that prevent third parties from manipulating and exploiting artists' work without their permission.
“I am passionate about exploring new technologies with the guise of expanding my art further and exploring new ways to express myself and reach fans,” the singer further shared on Instagram. “However it is imperative that, at this dawn of great technological growth, legislation is put in place to ensure that an artists likeness is controlled by the artist themselves.”
