No, AI doesn't mean human-made music is doomed
What societal question does the article raise about the future role of musicians in the age of AI?
The societal question raised by the article about the future role of musicians in the age of AI is whether the responsibility of creating our musical worlds and cultures should be handed over to AI to save money, or if musicians should be supported with job security and a fair wage, similar to professions like doctors, dentists, politicians, and teachers. The article prompts a reflection on the value society places on musicians who contribute to the development of new musical styles and the shaping of our cultural identities.
What is the new AI model mentioned in the article, and what potential does it hold for the music industry?
The new AI model mentioned in the article is GPT-4o, which is a part of the ChatGPT model. This AI model has the potential to revolutionize the music industry by enabling users to create new tracks in any existing genre with minimal effort. It allows users to add instruments, change the music's "vibe," and even choose a virtual singer to sing their lyrics. This development in AI technology raises questions about the future of human-made music and the need to value musicians who play an important role in creating our musical worlds and cultures.
How has the relationship between technology and music evolved over time, based on historical examples provided?
The relationship between technology and music has evolved significantly over time, as seen in various historical examples:
- The invention of the gramophone marked the beginning of using technology to play music, which eventually led to debates over artistic originality with the introduction of self-playing pianos.
- Sampling, DJ-ing, autotune technology, and AI-based mastering and production software further transformed music creation and consumption.
- The development of AI programs like SOUNDRAW and Loudly enabled the creation of musical compositions in the style of almost any artist with minimal effort.
These technological advancements have not only disrupted the music industry but also transformed how we engage with music. However, music remains a very human thing, used for storytelling, self-expression, and shaping identities. While AI can create music, it is unlikely to replace the human touch and understanding of the human experience in music creation.