By Jess Jones Hollywood performers and media artists have struck a “groundbreaking” agreement with major record labels to protect their work against the rising influence of artificial intelligence (AI). The deal, covering the period from 2021 to 2026, promises higher minimum salaries and safeguards against the use of AI, according to a statement by the union that represents Hollywood actors and writers, known as SAG-AFTRA. Warner Music Group, Sony Music Entertainment, Universal Music Group and Disney Music Group are all included in the deal. Duncan Crabtree-Ireland, SAG-AFTRA national executiv…