AI-generated songs with Northern Ireland themes have been dropped from local commercial radio playlists following a wave of online criticism. The tracks had been broadcast on air and circulated widely on social media, dividing listeners and musicians.

Some creators argue that AI music is a new form of expression. Oliver McCann, whose song Stone was the first to exceed one million streams on the AI music platform Suno, said the technology lets him concentrate on storytelling. McCann, who signed with a record label in 2025 as an AI music designer, noted that radio has always valued connection with audiences, regardless of how a song is made.

Paul Connolly, a Derry-born singer and songwriter, said he is dismayed by the growth of AI-generated music. He said it devalues the work of human artists, pointing to fewer opportunities for musicians to perform live or get airtime. Connolly, who leads the band The Wood Burning Savages, argued that streaming services and broadcasters should not give these tracks a platform.

McCann acknowledged the concerns, saying he considers the human creative process to be essential and personal. He drew a line between artists who use AI deliberately and those who simply press a button to generate a piece.

There is no legal requirement for streaming platforms to label AI-generated music. Spotify has introduced an optional credit feature, Deezer uses an AI detection tool, and Apple Music asks labels to declare AI use through transparency tags.

The removal of the Northern Ireland-themed tracks from local airwaves reflects the ongoing debate over artificial intelligence in creative fields.