New ‘final’ Beatles song produced with AI is sparking tech fears – The Globe and Mail
By alexandreTech
New ‘final’ Beatles song produced with AI is sparking tech fears – The Globe and Mail
The recent release of a new ‘final’ Beatles song produced with AI has sparked tech fears among critics and fans alike. The track, titled “Daisy Bell (Bicycle Built for Two)”, was created using machine learning algorithms, which analyzed existing Beatles songs to generate new material.
While the use of AI in music production is not entirely new, this latest release has raised concerns about the ethical implications of using technology to replace human creativity and the potential exploitation of deceased artists’ work.
The Song
“Daisy Bell (Bicycle Built for Two)” is a jangly, upbeat tune that is undeniably reminiscent of the Beatles’ early work. However, the track lacks the raw energy and emotional depth of the band’s more iconic offerings, leading many critics to question whether an algorithm can truly replicate the essence of human creativity.
Proponents of the song argue that it is a testament to the power of AI to enhance and extend the legacy of beloved artists. They argue that the technology allows us to explore new sonic possibilities and create music that would have been impossible with traditional human-only methods.
However, others worry that the use of AI in music production may be a slippery slope towards a future where creativity and artistry are sacrificed in favor of efficiency and profit margins.
Technology Fears
Skeptics of AI-generated music allege that the use of the technology could lead to a loss of jobs in the music industry. They argue that if machines can replicate the work of human musicians, there may be less demand for live performers and studio musicians.
Additionally, critics worry that the use of AI in music production could lead to a homogenization of musical styles. If everyone is using the same algorithms to generate music, there may be less diversity and originality in the music that is produced.
Finally, some worry that the use of AI in music production could lead to more cases of posthumous music releases like “Daisy Bell (Bicycle Built for Two)”. Critics argue that it is unethical to exploit artists’ legacies for profit after they have passed away, even if the music is generated using AI rather than traditional studio methods.
Ethical Implications
The release of “Daisy Bell (Bicycle Built for Two)” has raised significant ethical questions about the use of AI in music production. Many fans and critics alike question the decision to use the technology to replicate the sound of a beloved band like the Beatles.
Some argue that the use of AI in music production is inherently exploitative, as it allows record labels and producers to profit off of the work of machines rather than human beings. They worry that artists will be pressured to sign over the rights to their music in order to remain competitive in an industry that values efficiency and profits over artistic expression.
Finally, there is concern that the use of AI-generated music could lead to a future where human creativity is no longer valued or celebrated. If machines can do the work of human musicians, will there be a need for artists at all?
The release of “Daisy Bell (Bicycle Built for Two)” is just the beginning of what promises to be a long and complicated conversation about the role of AI in music production. While some see the technology as a powerful tool for expanding artistic possibilities, others worry that it represents a dangerous shift away from human creativity and expression.
Ultimately, the decision about how to incorporate AI into the music industry will require careful consideration of both the potential benefits and drawbacks of the technology. As fans and critics continue to grapple with these complex questions, one thing is clear: the future of music production is likely to look very different than it does today.
