Industry insiders are buzzing about AI’s rapid evolution in music and its implications.
Dr. Joe Burns, interim chair of the Communication Department at Southeastern Louisiana University, recently shared his insights on the growing presence of artificial intelligence in the music industry. As an experienced audio production instructor and a former radio programmer, Burns has a unique perspective on how technology has transformed music, and he isn’t shy about expressing his concerns regarding AI’s future impact.
During a recent meeting with the Hammond Kiwanis Club, Burns highlighted the significant advancements in AI-generated music, referencing the Beatles’ song “Now and Then,” which was released decades after John Lennon’s passing. He argues that just as past technology has evolved dramatically, AI will continue to advance rapidly, potentially changing the way music is created and consumed.
Burns pointed out that people often underestimate technological progress. He used the example of video games, which started as simple 8-bit experiences and have evolved into complex, immersive environments. He predicts that the limitations of current AI-generated music will be surmounted in a matter of years, leading to increased sophistication in AI compositions.
During his talk, Burns showcased AI tools like Genesis and Suno, which can generate music from simple text prompts. He recounted how his daughter used Suno to quickly produce a full album, demonstrating the accessibility of these technologies. He challenged the audience to consider the implications of AI in music creation, highlighting the case of British artist imoliver, who uses Suno as an instrument and has successfully signed a record deal.
With AI artists gaining traction and climbing music charts, discussions surrounding copyright are becoming more pressing. Burns noted that the U.S. copyright office has recently adjusted its stance on AI, suggesting that as long as AI is utilized as a tool, AI-generated works could now be eligible for copyright protection. This shift raises critical questions about the future of music rights and the need for artists to protect their likenesses and styles from AI-generated reproductions.
Burns also emphasized the potential for AI to influence music awards in the future. He pointed out that the Grammy award given to the Beatles’ AI-assisted track signifies a notable shift in recognition of AI in the music industry. He posed a provocative question to his students: whether they would care if a song was written by AI, to which many responded that as long as they enjoy the music, it wouldn’t matter.
While Burns acknowledges the fascinating aspects of AI in music, he also expresses concern about its broader implications. He worries that the rise of AI could detract from the need for live performances and traditional musicianship, stating, “Why should I go see a concert? I can make a concert for me.” He recognizes that while technology brings opportunities, it also poses challenges that could significantly impact the music industry.
At the end of his presentation, Burns admitted he doesn’t have all the answers but feels compelled to share his thoughts. He expressed a sense of unease about the direction of music technology, revealing a desire to remain engaged with developments while recognizing that the industry is changing in ways he might not fully grasp.
