The Impact of Artificial Intelligence on The Music Industry

The debate over music created by artificial intelligence has been at the forefront of the industry recently. Artists like Billie Eilish, Nicki Minaj and Paul McCartney have expressed their concerns over AI music stealing their artistry while also denying fair compensation. Other arguments against the use of AI in music revolve around ethical concerns as human artists’ roles in today’s music scene are being threatened by the age of machines.

However, the rise of AI technology has also caused an inevitable sense of growing support in the music industry. The technology’s supporters suggest that producers can use AI for inspiration and exploration of new sounds. DJ David Guetta has advocated for the use of AI in music saying it can help shape the sounds of the future. Dance artist Grimes said that she gives permission to anyone to use her voice in an AI-generated song and that if it is successful she will split 50% royalties. “Same deal as I would with any artist I collab[orate] with,” she said on X/Twitter.

Websites like udio.com and soundraw.com have gained popularity as they provide a space for people to create and produce music with just a few words. AI technology on websites like these can clone voices, mix and master a track, and even compose a whole song.

With the rapid growth of AI technology and its impact on music, it’s only time until legislation catches up with the industry’s recent reality. Which side of the debate are you on? Do you support the use of artificial intelligence in music making or do you think the rising technology harms the human creative process?