Taylor Swift Files Sound and Image Marks to Address AI Risks

TAS Rights Management, the company handling Taylor Swift's intellectual property, submitted three trademark applications to the USPTO on April 24, 2026. Two applications seek registration of sound marks consisting of audio clips in which Swift says "Hey, it's Taylor" and "Hey, it's Taylor Swift." The third application covers a design mark depicting Swift on stage during her Eras Tour, holding a pink guitar while wearing a multi-colored iridescent bodysuit and silver boots.

These filings represent an effort to secure trademark protection for specific elements of Swift's voice and visual likeness. Trademark attorneys have noted that sound marks for spoken phrases are uncommon and that such registrations, if granted, could provide a basis for addressing unauthorized uses that create consumer confusion.

The applications add to an existing portfolio of hundreds of marks owned by TAS Rights Management. They follow similar strategies employed by other celebrities seeking to manage digital likeness concerns. The USPTO will examine the applications under standard registrability criteria, including distinctiveness and potential conflicts with prior marks.

No opposition proceedings have been initiated as of the latest reports. The filings remain pending and subject to the agency's review process.

Sources: https://www.cnn.com/2026/04/28/business/taylor-swift-trademark-ai-intl https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/crm1mygrmv2o https://variety.com/2026/music/news/taylor-swift-trademark-voice-likeness-ai-misuse-1236731401/