AI’s making waves in China’s music scene; over half of new indie songs are AI-generated.
Deezer has been tracking the rise of AI-generated music, revealing that last November, 34% of all uploads to its platform were produced by artificial intelligence. Now, China is reporting a significant surge in this trend, particularly within its independent music sector.
A recent article by People’s Daily, a state-owned media outlet, highlighted that AI-generated music constituted 56.9% of all new independent tracks released in China during the first quarter of 2025. This statistic marks a notable shift in how music is created and consumed in the country.
Unlike the concerns raised in Western media regarding the implications of AI in music, the narrative in China takes a more optimistic tone. The People’s Daily article emphasizes the potential benefits of AI for the local music industry, suggesting that it opens up new creative horizons rather than presenting a crisis.
Among the developments, Tencent Music’s GenAI music tool has gained significant traction, with over 10 million users. This platform has generated more than 26 million tracks, which have collectively garnered over 1 billion streams. The sheer volume of AI-generated music suggests an evolving approach to music production that could redefine the industry.
While concerns about the authenticity and originality of AI music persist in the West, the Chinese perspective highlights collaboration between technology and artistry. This approach could signal a broader acceptance of AI as a valuable tool for musicians, rather than a threat to traditional music-making processes.
As the landscape of the music industry continues to shift, the integration of AI in both production and distribution could lead to significant changes in how artists engage with their audiences. It’s evident that the rise of AI-generated music is reshaping the independent music scene in China, with authorities viewing it as an evolution rather than an obstacle.
