In 2023, over ten different music AI models have been released by independent researchers and big-tech companies, allowing users to generate custom tracks in seconds using a mere text prompt.
Thanks to off-the-shelf music AI tools, hundreds of thousands of AI-generated songs are now listed on streaming services. AI-generated content raises the question of what the future holds for creatives in music and the impact of AI on the music industry. In this article, we explore innovative life hacks for creatives and how they can adapt to the changing music landscape.
Creative AI may be the most disruptive technology for the music business since the Napster era of piracy.
At large, generative AI tools for text and visual art have picked up tens of millions of users, forcing us to rethink traditional notions of creativity, ownership, and attribution. The concept at the core of why creative AI could be so disruptive is that the friction between having an idea and manifesting that idea in the form of a creative work has essentially gone down to zero. The playing field of who can be an artist, in the sense of being an active participant in the music economy, will continue to increase dramatically.
Traditional music-industry notions of authorship and attribution will likely need to be thrown out the window with creative AI, as what is happening under the hood with these AI models is much more complex than directly sampling a song.
The legal and regulatory landscape around generative AI is still unpredictable, making future predictions a futile effort. However, one crucial piece of advice to artists and music-industry professionals is to break down information silos while we are still early and start talking to and collaborating with music and audio AI developers to develop a culture of transparent dialogue.
The best music AI developers are building iterative feedback and collaboration cycles with artists into their day-to-day workflows.
Novel approaches to licensing, monetization, and brand protection that are being experimented with right now with AI models prioritize direct artist consent and collaboration with developers as an ethical default. In the future, the music industry will require creatives to have a broader set of skills, including an understanding of how AI can work alongside their craft.
The following innovative life hacks for creatives can help them to adapt to the changing music landscape.
Experiment with AI-generated music
As AI-generated music becomes increasingly prevalent, musicians can experiment with using these tools as part of their creative process. AI-generated music can provide inspiration, allowing artists to discover new sounds and styles, and help them save time in the music-making process. For example, Boomy, an AI music creation platform, allows users to create unique tracks by selecting a genre, mood, and desired sound.
Collaborate with AI developers
Collaborating with AI developers can help creatives understand how AI can work alongside their craft. AI developers are experimenting with innovative approaches to licensing, monetization, and brand protection that prioritize direct artist consent and collaboration. By collaborating with developers, musicians can influence the development of these tools and ensure they align with their creative values.
Focus on originality and authenticity
In a world where AI can generate music, musicians must focus on originality and authenticity to stand out. Emphasis on context- and mood-based music, ambient, sleep, lo-fi, and instrumental music is increasing. Musicians can create music that reflects their unique style and sound, connecting with their audience on a personal level.
Embrace a broad set of skills
The future of the music industry will require creatives to have a broader set of skills, including an understanding of how AI can work alongside their craft. Musicians
Embrace a broad set of skills to prepare for the changes that AI will bring to the music industry.
As AI becomes more integrated into the creative process, it will be important for professionals in the music industry to not only have technical skills but also a strong foundation in creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving.
One of the most significant impacts of AI on the music industry is the democratization of creativity.
AI allows anyone to create music, and this will inevitably lead to an influx of mediocre and indistinguishable music flooding the market. To stand out in this sea of content, music professionals will need to have a strong creative vision and a unique voice that can’t be replicated by AI. Additionally, they will need to be able to identify trends, create engaging content, and connect with their audience on a deeper level.
Another essential skill for music professionals to develop is adaptability.
As the music industry continues to change rapidly, those who can quickly adapt to new trends and technologies will be the most successful. This may mean learning how to use new software, working with new collaborators, or finding new ways to monetize your work.
In addition to technical skills, professionals in the music industry will also need a strong foundation in critical thinking and problem-solving.
As AI-generated music becomes more prevalent, traditional notions of authorship and attribution may need to be thrown out the window. The legal and regulatory landscape around generative AI is still unpredictable, so music professionals will need to be able to navigate complex legal and ethical issues.
Finally, it is important for music professionals to stay up-to-date with the latest trends and technologies.
Keeping your finger on the pulse of the industry will help you stay ahead of the curve and identify emerging opportunities. This may mean attending conferences, reading industry publications, or networking with other professionals in the field.
AI will have a profound impact on the music industry, and it is essential for professionals in the field to prepare for these changes. By embracing a broad set of skills, including creativity, adaptability, critical thinking, and problem-solving, music professionals can position themselves for success in a rapidly changing landscape. As AI continues to evolve and become more integrated into the creative process, those who can stay ahead of the curve and adapt to new technologies and trends will be the most successful.