Have you ever wondered how AI is shaking up the music industry? Well, buckle up, because this week’s top AI music news is nothing short of revolutionary. From groundbreaking licensing frameworks to AI-generated hits, there’s a lot to unpack. Let’s dive in!
1. GEMA’s bold move: A 30% Cut from AI developers?
First up, German performance rights organization GEMA is making waves with its new generative AI licensing framework. They’re calling for a whopping 30% share of all net income from AI developers who use protected musical works in their training data. 😲
You might be thinking, “Is this even enforceable?” Great question! While GEMA’s stance is ambitious, the challenge lies in getting AI companies to comply—especially when giants like OpenAI have already threatened to exit the EU over strict regulations.
But here’s the kicker: With the EU’s AI Act coming into play and Germany’s unique regulatory environment, GEMA’s demands might just set a precedent. They’re also pushing for payments on all economic benefits from AI-generated music, ensuring rights holders get a fair shake. Talk about leveling the playing field!
2. Brenda Lee’s classic gets a Spanish AI makeover
Next on our list, Universal Music Group has breathed new life into Brenda Lee’s 1958 hit “Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree.” Using AI technology, they’ve released a Spanish version titled “Noche Buena y Navidad.”
“Wait, Brenda Lee sings in Spanish now?” Well, not exactly. UMG used SoundLabs‘ AI plug-in, MicDrop, to transform Lee’s iconic vocals into Spanish—with her full approval, of course. Chilean singer Leyla Hoyle recorded the Spanish lyrics, mimicking Lee’s vocal patterns, and then AI worked its magic to make it sound like the original artist. Pretty cool, right?
This move not only preserves the classic’s charm but also taps into the booming Latin American market. It’s a win-win for artists and fans alike!
3. Sir Lucian Grainge and Holly Herndon on the ‘AI Power List 2024’
Ever wondered who’s leading the charge in AI and music? Business Insider’s ‘AI Power List 2024’ features two industry heavyweights: Universal Music Group’s Sir Lucian Grainge and musician-technologist Holly Herndon.
Sir Lucian is praised for proactively prepping UMG for the AI wave, going on offense rather than defense. On the flip side, Holly Herndon is celebrated for her innovative use of AI to create art. She’s at the forefront of using AI not just as a tool but as a creative partner.
She’s also co-founded Spawning, offering a ‘Do Not Train’ registry to protect artists’ works from unauthorized AI training. It’s all about giving control back to creators—a mission we can all get behind!
4. Timbaland’s love affair with Suno AI:
Producer extraordinaire Timbaland has been spending up to 10 hours a day with his new muse: Suno AI. He’s so smitten, he even calls it “Baby Timbo”! 😄
Some might worry about the legal controversies surrounding AI, but Timbaland isn’t fazed. He likens Suno to the early days of Auto-Tune—a revolutionary tool that changed music forever. “It’s like falling back in love with the purity of creativity,” he says.
For Timbaland, AI isn’t about replacing human talent; it’s about enhancing creativity. And honestly, who wouldn’t want a tool that reignites passion and innovation?
5. Jacob Collier teams up with Google on MusicFX DJ
Last but not least, musical genius Jacob Collier has partnered with Google to launch MusicFX DJ, an AI-powered music production tool. 🎹
This isn’t just another AI generator. MusicFX DJ allows users to create “non-linear, weird, continuously evolving” musical tapestries from simple prompts. Collier emphasizes that it’s not about replicating existing styles but exploring fresh, unique materials in real time.
Imagine having an AI collaborator that sparks new ideas and pushes creative boundaries. For aspiring musicians like you, this could be a game-changer!
