Terms of Service

Last Updated: December 20, 2025

1. INTRODUCTION & ACCEPTANCE

Welcome to the Recording Artists Guild ("RAG"). RAG provides tools, resources, recognition programs, and infrastructure designed to support independent artists in managing their careers responsibly in a modern, AI-influenced industry.

By accessing or participating in any RAG platform, service, award program, or related site (including RAG Awards), you agree to these Terms of Service and associated policies.

If you do not agree, you should not use the platform.

2. WHAT RAG IS (IMPORTANT CLARIFICATION)

RAG is:

  • An artist support organization
  • An infrastructure and standards platform
  • A recognition and education ecosystem

RAG is not:

  • A labor union
  • A talent agency
  • A legal, financial, or tax advisor
  • A collective bargaining organization

Participation does not create an employment, agency, fiduciary, or partnership relationship.

3. ELIGIBILITY & ACCOUNT RESPONSIBILITY

By using RAG services, you confirm that:

  • You are a human individual or authorized representative
  • Information you provide is accurate and current
  • You are responsible for all activity under your account

RAG may restrict or terminate access for violations of policy or misuse of the platform.

4. ARTIST SUBMISSIONS & CONTENT

4.1 Ownership

You retain ownership of all content you submit to RAG.

By submitting content, you grant RAG a limited, non-exclusive license to:

  • Review submissions
  • Display content for evaluation, recognition, or promotion related to RAG programs
  • Archive submissions for recordkeeping

RAG does not claim ownership of artist work.

4.2 Accuracy & Rights

You are responsible for ensuring that:

  • You have the right to submit the work
  • All collaborators are properly credited
  • Any agreements, splits, or permissions are respected

RAG is not responsible for disputes arising from inaccurate submissions.

5. AI USE & DISCLOSURE POLICY

5.1 AI Is Allowed — Disclosure Is Required

RAG permits the use of AI tools in creation, provided use is accurately disclosed where required.

Disclosure may be required for:

  • Award submissions
  • Featured recognition
  • Competitive programs

Failure to disclose material AI use may result in: reclassification, disqualification, or suspension of eligibility.

5.2 AI Personas & Misrepresentation

You may not:

  • Present AI-generated personas as real humans
  • Submit AI-generated work as human-created
  • Use AI to impersonate real individuals without authorization

RAG reserves the right to remove or reclassify submissions that violate these standards.

6. RAG AWARDS — NO GUARANTEE OF RECOGNITION

Participation in RAG Awards:

  • Does not guarantee nomination or recognition
  • Does not imply endorsement
  • Is subject to eligibility rules and review processes

RAG may modify categories, update criteria, or defer recognition to preserve integrity and fairness.

7. ADVISORY COUNCIL & GOVERNANCE

Members of the RAG Advisory Council:

  • Serve in a non-fiduciary, advisory capacity
  • Do not control operations or decisions
  • Do not represent RAG individually

Advisory participation does not imply endorsement of specific artists, submissions, or outcomes.

8. AIME & AUTOMATED GUIDANCE

RAG may provide AI-assisted tools or guidance (including AIME).

These tools:

  • Are educational and informational
  • Do not constitute legal, financial, or professional advice
  • Do not replace human judgment

You remain responsible for decisions made based on guidance.

9. COMMUNITY CONDUCT

You agree to:

  • Act respectfully toward other members
  • Avoid harassment, abuse, or deception
  • Use RAG systems in good faith

Violations may result in warnings, restrictions, or termination.

10. PRIVACY & DATA USE

RAG collects limited data necessary to:

  • Operate services
  • Evaluate submissions
  • Communicate with members

RAG does not sell member data. Sensitive data is handled with care and limited access.

11. MODIFICATIONS & EVOLUTION

RAG operates in a rapidly evolving industry. These Terms may be updated to reflect technological change, policy refinement, and community needs. Material changes will be communicated when possible.

12. DISCLAIMER OF LIABILITY

RAG provides services "as is" without guarantees. RAG is not liable for lost revenue, missed opportunities, third-party disputes, or business decisions made by members. Participation is voluntary and at your own discretion.

13. GOVERNING LAW

These Terms are governed by the laws of the United States, without regard to conflict of law principles.