(Hypebot) — AI has changed the way creative works are composed, expanded potential production possibilities, and much more. Here are some of the multifaceted roles AI plays in today’s music industry…
by Virginie Berger Since Byta
AI and the creative process in music
Did you miss the first part? Click here to read “Navigating the AI Revolution in the Music Industry.”
Artificial intelligence (AI) has had a significant impact on the music creation process, revolutionizing the way compositions are created, performances are delivered, collaborations are formed and productions are made. In this second part of the exploration, we seek to dissect the nuanced roles that AI plays in these areas, examining advances in generative AI, the totality of AI music creation, and the complex interaction between AI and human artists.
The new landscape of composition
The landscape of music composition has been significantly changed by generative AI. By analyzing large datasets of musical compositions, these advanced algorithms can identify complex patterns and structures within the music. They are then trained to replicate the styles of specific artists, allowing for the creation of new music carrying the distinctive sound of those musicians. AI music generators, such as AIVA, represent this trend, providing the ability to quickly produce music in different styles. This ability has made it an asset to composers looking to expand their creative horizons and to the industry always looking for innovative sounds. There remains debate about the originality and emotional depth of AI-generated compositions compared to those created by human musicians.
The evolution of performance
The impact of AI on performance is equally transformative. Technologies such as Yamaha’s AI Music Ensemble technology are an example of this. They analyze the nuances of human performance and generate complementary performance in real time. This allows for a seamless blend of human and AI musicality, creating a new type of ensemble where the lines between organic and synthetic sounds are blurred. The potential of such technology goes beyond mere accompaniment, portending a future in which AI could contribute to live performances in unpredictable and dynamic ways. However, it also sparks discussions about the authenticity of live performances when AI is involved and the implications for musicians whose roles may be altered by these technologies.
Collaborative Frontiers with AI
The collaborative potential of AI in music is vast. AI systems can now analyze input from a variety of sources, including pianos and orchestras, and use that information to contribute creatively. This has led to the use of AI not only to accompany human performances, but also to control aspects of the performance environment, such as lighting and video, creating a more immersive experience. Researchers continue to explore these interactions, seeking to understand and improve the creative synergy between humans and AI in the music creation process.
Production transformed by AI
In production, AI offers tools that promise to simplify and accelerate the creative process. For example, AI-powered tools like Magenta and Orb Producer Suite can help generate musical templates and assets, saving producers and musicians time. These tools create algorithms and new music by learning from large datasets of musical compositions. While these tools can be beneficial, particularly for independent artists, there is an ongoing debate over the impact of this technology on the production landscape, including concerns about the homogenization of music and the potential devaluation of music. human expertise.
Assessing the impact of AI on music production
The role of AI in music production is characterized by both potential advantages and disadvantages. On the one hand, AI can improve efficiency and open up new creative possibilities. On the other hand, there are concerns about loss of originality, quality issues, and the potential for AI to produce music that lacks the nuanced expression of human-created compositions. Additionally, the risk of job losses for musicians and producers and the unresolved nature of copyright issues present significant challenges.
AI-generated music, while innovative, can sometimes lack the emotional depth and authenticity of human-composed music, and the risk of a homogenized music landscape is a pressing concern.
When AI misses the rhythm
Not all AI-generated music is up to par, with some attempts criticized for lacking the depth and authenticity of human composition. An AI rendition of The Weeknd’s “I Feel It Coming,” intended to reflect Michael Jackson’s style, fell short of emotional depth. Similarly, AI platforms like Jukebox and MusicLM have come under scrutiny in terms of quality. Even attempts to replicate the style of renowned composers like Hans Zimmer with AI have failed, with one Disney director opting for Zimmer’s authentic composition rather than the AI-generated piece.
Musicians themselves have mixed reactions to AI-generated music. While some, like Liam Gallagher and Grimes, have praised the potential of AI, others, like Selena Gomez and Drake, have expressed concerns about its impact on creativity and job security. Musicians like Alfa Mist recognize the usefulness of AI in certain aspects of production but emphasize the irreplaceable value of the human experience in music creation.
Navigating Copyright and Intellectual Property Challenges
The integration of AI into music creation also brings to the fore complex issues surrounding copyright and intellectual property. Some platforms solve this problem by offering subscriptions that allow users to claim copyright ownership of AI-generated compositions. However, the legal framework surrounding AI-generated content is still evolving, and the implications for copyright law and ownership are the subject of active legal debate.
The landscape of AI music production tools – from Magenta Studio to Orb Producer Suite, from Amper to AIVA, Jukedeck and WavTool – presents a spectrum of possibilities for integration into the creative process. Each tool carries its own set of rules and rights, providing a solution suitable for artists ranging from amateurs to professionals, ensuring that the power to create and ownership rights remain firmly in the hands of the creator.
Navigating the complex dance between AI and music, we find ourselves at the intersection of innovation and tradition. As we explore this uncharted territory, the music industry must wield AI with a conscientious hand, ensuring that this technological marvel serves as a bridge to new artistic landscapes, not a divider between creator and artist. craftsmanship.
Virginie Berger, a music and technology industry veteran, specializes in rights management, digital transformation and innovation in the music industry. With over 20 years of experience as SVP of Global Publishing at Downtown Music-Songtrust, Armonia, Myspace and Microsoft, she has driven revenue, built partnerships and championed artists’ rights. Curator, professor and artist advocate, she excels in innovation and monetization of music rights. She currently serves as an international advisor helping companies increase brand awareness, cultivate partnerships and promote rights innovation. In addition, it is relaunching its media platform, Don’t Believe the Hype, dedicated to the music business, innovation and international expertise.
