Michael Huppe, President & CEO of SoundExchange, is exploring the impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on the music industry in the coming years. While there are concerns about the risks AI poses to music creators, there is also potential for it to be a powerful tool for unleashing creativity. AI has been rapidly embraced by musicians worldwide, with many experimenting with AI-generated music to enhance their craft and create new music that resonates with audiences.
Despite some challenges, such as the unauthorized release of AI-generated music sounding like popular artists, the potential of AI in the music industry is significant. Musicians are finding innovative ways to utilize AI technology, such as the “music resurrectionists” who are creating new music in collaboration with deceased artists like John Lennon and Biggie Smalls. Others are using AI to broaden the reach of their music, such as K-Pop label HYBE releasing a new song in six languages simultaneously with AI assistance.
The impact of AI is also seen in the ability of artists to bring their music to a wider audience. Artists like Tom Morello and several mainstream musicians are working with AI companies to create new music and provide opportunities for aspiring creators to experiment with their signature sounds. Additionally, AI tools like BandLab, ChatGPT, and WavTool are enabling working musicians to enhance their creative process and find new ways to express themselves through music.
Moving forward, it is essential to ensure that AI is used responsibly and with proper respect for the creators whose work is being utilized. Michael Huppe emphasizes the importance of consent, credit, and compensation in the use of AI tools in the music industry to protect creators’ intellectual property rights. By adopting these principles and implementing safeguards, AI has the potential to revolutionize the music industry and open up new possibilities for artists without replacing the human touch in music creation.
As AI continues to evolve and impact various industries, including music, it is crucial for stakeholders to engage in discussions about the ethical and legal implications of AI technology. The intersection of AI and music has the potential to transform how music is created, distributed, and experienced by audiences worldwide. With the right approach and safeguards in place, AI can be a valuable tool for empowering musicians and enhancing the creative process in the music industry.
