Musicians Embracing AI Can Balance Technology With Integrity

Robot hands playing the piano
Illustration: VIP+; Adobe Stock

A recent study conducted by distributor Ditto Music surprisingly found that nearly 60% of the musicians surveyed are already using artificial intelligence in some capacity.

This ranges from utilizing AI for artwork development (38%) and music mastering (almost 31%) to music production (20%) and even songwriting assistance (11%). The fact that a majority of musicians have had positive experiences with AI is a testament to its potential impact on the industry.

It is important to acknowledge, however, that there are still artists who prefer traditional methods and have reservations about integrating AI into their creative processes, with approximately 28.5% of respondents expressing a reluctance to use AI in their projects.

The reasons cited varied, with some musicians mentioning limited access to AI tools (28%), time constraints preventing them from exploring AI (25%), concerns about the creativity derived from AI (23%), affordability issues (17%) or a combination of factors (7%).

And while there are indeed many free AI tools available, getting acquainted with these technologies does require an investment of time and effort. Nevertheless, AI’s presence in the music industry has been growing steadily over the past few years, and those who embrace its potential will gain a competitive advantage.

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Taking a balanced approach, it is clear AI has the potential to enhance music creation, production and even distribution processes. By leveraging AI tools, musicians can explore new sounds, improve the quality of their recordings and gain valuable insights into audience preferences.

On the other hand, it is crucial to acknowledge that AI is not a one-size-fits-all solution. Some musicians may prefer the human touch, cherishing the organic and intuitive aspects of music creation. Additionally, concerns about AI-generated creativity and the fear of losing the authenticity and uniqueness of their artistry are valid considerations.

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Ultimately, the decision to embrace or abstain from using AI in music is a personal one. Musicians should carefully evaluate their specific needs, artistic vision and comfort level with the new advancements, because embracing the technology while preserving artistic integrity can lead to innovative and compelling musical experiences.

Virginie Berger, a music and tech industry veteran, is a leading expert in rights management, digital transformation and music business innovation.

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