Conserving Tony Bennett’s Legacy in the AI Era

Protecting a Legendary Artist in the Digital Age

Iconoclast has teamed up with AI licensing and protection platform Vermillio to safeguard the name, image, voice, and likeness of legendary singer Tony Bennett across generative AI systems. The partnership addresses growing concerns from estates and rightsholders about unauthorized AI reproductions of iconic artists.

TraceID: Monitoring AI and the Internet

Using Vermillio’s TraceID platform, Iconoclast can monitor both public generative AI models, including OpenAI’s Sora, and the broader internet for unlicensed uses of Bennett’s likeness. TraceID scans content at creation across major AI platforms and tracks distribution online, helping identify potential opportunities for authorized licensing while preventing misuse.

Leadership Voices Support

Olivier Chastan, Founder of Iconoclast, said, “Partnering with Vermillio allows us to navigate the evolving technological landscape, preserving Tony’s artistic identity while embracing new, responsible and creative ways to extend his reach.” Dan Neely, Co-Founder and CEO of Vermillio, added, “Tony Bennett’s artistry touched so many lives. With TraceID, Iconoclast is setting a precedent for how estates can manage intellectual property in the AI era while enabling new creative expressions.”

Honoring Tony Bennett’s Legacy

Bennett, who passed away in 2023, had an eight-decade career, winning 20 Grammy Awards, a Lifetime Achievement Award, and two Primetime Emmy Awards. In 2024, Iconoclast acquired a catalog of Bennett’s music assets, reportedly valued under $50 million. The collaboration ensures his legacy is preserved and responsibly extended in the digital age.

Smart Licensing with Blockchain Technology

TraceID uses blockchain-based smart contracts to manage licensing agreements, allowing rightsholders to block unauthorized uses while monetizing approved AI applications. The platform is already deployed with clients such as WME, which protects high-profile celebrities, including Steve Harvey, from AI misuse.

Iconoclast’s Expanding Role in Artist Protection

Founded in 2021 by Olivier Chastan, Iconoclast manages estates and intellectual property for notable artists, including Robbie Robertson, David Cassidy, and Giorgio Moroder. Vermillio has previously partnered with Sony Music Entertainment and Legacy Recordings on projects with The Orb and David Gilmour, enabling fans to remix music and create original artwork.

A New Standard for AI-Conscious Rights Management

This partnership marks a milestone in AI rights management, demonstrating how technology can protect artist legacies while responsibly enabling creative innovation.