The AI thing…

I wanted to take time and share a view point with you regarding this artificial intelligence technology that is brewing. Actually, it has already arrived.

First of all, we have to understand that this subject is trending and seems to be everywhere and on every platform, which may seem overwhelming at the moment. But it doesn’t change the fact that it exists.

I’ve heard some of my friends who work in the industry (music and film) express some concerns regarding the relevance of their existence as artists now that IA is here. And this is the main problem in my opinion. Yes, certainly in the span of three minutes anyone who understands the AI tool and the parameters could “create” - or ask the tool to create, I should say- any piece of music they wish in the way they want it. You could tell AI to create an album from all the Ozzy Osbourne hits played by the Beatles. That could be a thing, yes. 

People seem to forget one thing about art in general, and it is that it is fun to make it.

The fun comes from getting involved and making art with like-minded people who also like to create. It’s fun to think about your next shot and decide what lens you are going to use for the scene or what chord should you use in the bridge of the last song. That is fun. To create some machine that creates art on automatic and on demand and could basically do it in an infinite amount procures absolutely no satisfaction to artists. 

In comparison, now we have gigantic factories that are only dedicated to the making of bread. However, somehow in 2023 we have independent bakers still making a living. Personally, I would rather purchase something from someone who enjoys creating it, rather than a software designed to reduce production/cost ratio.  

However, everyone has their own opinion. I invite you to protest against it if this is what you want to do. I invite you to use if you wish. Use it well, make it profitable. Use it in your interest as a creator.

The real threat is the idea of “being useless”. The real danger is that people might start to think that what they are doing as creators is not relevant anymore. That our value to society is even lower. As a musician myself I can tell you that, unfortunately, artists can invalidate themselves too easily. The AI topic doesn’t have to bring art into an apathetic state. 

Remember the fun we have on stage when we gather people together to hear the message we wish to share. We create art because it makes people happy. We make music because it makes people feel. Maybe some people won’t care if music and movies are being made on automatic, or maybe they will. But it is not important right now.

I make music because it is fun to make and I know I’m good at it. And you are good at it, too. Do not question your own art because of the importance of this new technology into the world. There will always be new technology and tools being create in this day of age. And there will always be people who are ready to pay over ten thousand dollars for a vintage musical instrument. 

There are still movies being shot on film.

Broadway Street in Nashville is still playing loudly until 2 am.

People still buy real oil paintings. 

And last time I went, the Philharmonic Hall in Manhattan was still packed.

So let’s just keep making art of the utmost aestethics.