will.i.am, the renowned musician, has strong views on the role of artificial intelligence in the music industry. He believes that true artists should not be concerned about AI taking over their craft. Instead, he emphasizes that those involved in the creative process will thrive with the help of AI, while those not directly in the creative loop may face challenges.

Unraveling the Impact of AI on the Music World with will.i.am

AI and the Chasing of Algorithms

will.i.am firmly states that true artists should not worry about artificial intelligence. He highlights that the only thing to be concerned about is if one is making music solely to chase an algorithm or trend on platforms like TikTok. He warns that if this is the case, AI will likely outperform such efforts. For example, in the music industry, managers, label execs, finance auditors, and attorneys are at risk as they may not be directly involved in the creative process. Microsoft's copilot, an AI assistant, is advancing rapidly, and by 2025 version eight, it could have a significant impact across various industries. However, musicians and hyper-creatives have nothing to fear. They will use AI to reinvent and create a whole new industry. AI is like a mirror, showing what already exists but not creating something new. It can mimic what we have created, but it cannot bring forth something that does not exist.

The Role of AI in Creativity

will.i.am has been involved with AI-related platforms for several years. His app FYI, an AI-powered app, aims to help creatives with productivity through messaging, file management tools, and content publishing. Now, they are launching "CONVOS," a content series where artists have one-on-one conversations with the AI person in the FYI.AI app. The inspiration came from a French series called "Colors" that reminded him of his own experiences promoting music. In "CONVOS," artists like Hit Boy demonstrate the app's capabilities. It offers a different type of performance based on conversation, where after the conversation, the artist jams out and creates. This is about the discovery process, a banter with AI. It helps people digest their thoughts and provides a unique way to engage with creativity. For example, musicians can work out lyrics and new material with the FYI.AI, receiving feedback and suggestions.

Caution with AI

While will.i.am is excited about what AI has to offer, he also encourages people to question what it provides. He warns that AI is not perfect and should not be blindly trusted. There are bots on social media that can give false impressions. With FYI.AI, users know they are talking to an AI, and they should push it to get the information they need. But they should also be mindful and not get lost in the information. It is someone's art, and there may be truth in it, but if it seems too good to be true, they should push further. This caution is essential as they have fun with AI.