Renowned musician A R Rahman recently shared his thoughts on the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in music, emphasizing that it should serve a purpose rather than being a gimmick. Rahman himself has ventured into the realm of AI in music by using AI software to recreate the voices of late playback singers Bamba Bakya and Shahul Hameed for a track in the upcoming film Lal Salaam. The use of AI technology has allowed him to bring back the voices of his friends and past collaborators.
Rahman believes that the use of technology should be done with proper permissions and considerations. When he and his team decided to use AI software, they sought the consent of the two singers’ families and provided compensation for using their voices. He is of the opinion that when commercial use is involved, it is crucial to obtain permission and compensate accordingly to avoid misuse of AI technology.
The musician acknowledges that recreating old tracks with new technology can be fun and impressive, as seen on platforms like Tik Tok and Instagram. However, he emphasizes the importance of setting a method for obtaining permissions and compensating for commercial use to prevent misuse.
Rahman’s attempt to recreate the voices of late playback singers is similar to how cinema brings back historical figures on the big screen. He believes that bringing back voices with permission and sensitivity to the sentiments of the singers’ families is a way to preserve their legacy and contribute to artistic expression.
Despite the debates surrounding the use of AI and its potential impact on job loss, Rahman asserts that technology should not harm humanity and should only enhance our way of work. He believes that people in leadership positions should be cautious and ensure that technology creates more job opportunities rather than taking them away.
In conclusion, A R Rahman’s foray into using AI in music highlights the importance of using technology responsibly and with proper permissions. By bringing back the voices of his late collaborators, Rahman demonstrates how AI can serve a purpose in preserving artistic legacies. However, he emphasizes the need for ethical considerations and compensation when using AI technology commercially.
