In a recent episode of the GeekWire Podcast, the host shared a fun holiday project in which he combined a vintage Boss DR-110 drum synthesizer with modern AI technology and his own guitar playing. This project illustrated the potential of AI tools that have emerged over the past few years and the ways in which they can enhance everyday life and work. Reflecting on the past year, the host emphasized the importance of focusing on things that have transitioned from impossible to merely difficult, as mentioned by Microsoft’s chief technology officer, Kevin Scott. This resonated with the host as he explored different ways to apply AI tools in various aspects of his life.
Over the past year, the host has utilized AI in simple tasks such as identifying the year of a vintage concert poster and creating nametags for family gatherings, as well as in more complex work-related endeavors like organizing and retrieving information more efficiently. AI has even helped him sleep better at night by using a Groundlight AI system to scare away raccoons from his porch. The host has also experimented with AI in music creation, as demonstrated in a popular episode of the GeekWire Podcast where AI was used to compose a jingle.
During a family Christmas gathering, the host rediscovered the Boss DR-110, a drum synthesizer from 1983. Despite its rudimentary technology compared to modern smartphone apps, the familiar beats of the device brought back nostalgic memories of creating music during that era. Inspired by this trip down memory lane, the host combined his guitar playing with the preset beats of the Boss DR-110 and used AI to extend and accompany the resulting composition. The resulting blend of vintage technology, personal musical input, and AI-generated music presented a unique and enjoyable listening experience.
The host reflects on the collaboration between the vintage drum synthesizer, his guitar playing, and the AI-generated music, acknowledging the transformative power of AI in creating a cohesive and improved musical piece. While the performance may not be Grammy-worthy, the technology has enabled the host to produce a passable and even enjoyable background music track in just a few minutes. This experience highlights the potential of AI as a creative tool that enhances the creative process rather than replaces it entirely. The host emphasizes the role of AI as an assistant, collaborator, and co-creator in enhancing personal and professional endeavors.
Looking ahead, the host remains optimistic about the possibilities that AI technology can unlock, especially in collaboration with other advanced technologies like quantum computing. By using AI as a tool to assist in creative processes and improve outcomes, the host has discovered the value of integrating AI into various aspects of his life and work. Ultimately, AI has allowed the host to push the boundaries of what was previously impossible, opening up new opportunities for creativity and innovation. As the development of AI technologies continues to progress, the host is excited to see what new and previously unimaginable possibilities will emerge.
