AI is indeed transforming music creation and production in several ways.
The AI algorithms generate music compositions based on patterns and styles learned from vast datasets of existing music. These systems create original melodies, chord progressions, and harmonies, mimicking the style of famous composers or producing entirely new styles. This has opened up new possibilities for composers to explore and experiment with different musical ideas.
It analyzes large amounts of music data to provide songwriting assistance. It suggests chord progressions, lyrics, and even melodies based on popular trends or specific musical genres. This is particularly useful for songwriters looking for inspiration or struggling to develop new ideas.
For example, AI algorithms automatically mix and master tracks, adjust levels, and improve the overall sound quality. They also help in creating dynamic arrangements by suggesting instrumentation, effects, and transitions.
The AI algorithms generate new sounds and samples based on existing audio samples. This allows musicians and producers to have access to an extensive library of unique sounds and textures. AI also manipulates existing samples, altering their pitch, tempo, or timbre to create entirely new sonic possibilities.
AI-powered recommendation systems help users discover new music based on their preferences, listening habits, and other contextual factors. These systems analyze vast amounts of data, including user behavior and music metadata, to provide personalized recommendations that cater to individual tastes.
Celebrated Nigerian singer and entrepreneur, Oluwatosin Oluwole Ajibade popularly known as Mr. Eazi has highlighted the transformative role of artificial intelligence (AI) in the music industry.
Mr. Eazi shared insights on how AI has made things easier for him when making music.
“In terms of your question of what AI does, right now, true AI is assisting creatives. We got into this room, and there were so many creatives making music. Before, when I was making music, I had to write, use tests and errors, and come up with melodies manually. But now, with AI, I can feed in my voice, and it helps create songs that sound authentic, enhancing our creativity. Good technology always makes things easier.”
Mr. Eazi
Mr. Eazi further highlighted how his platform, Power Pay, revolutionizes payments for creatives worldwide.
“It’s crazy. This is the future for Africa. Through my investment in Power Pay, we’ve been able to pay dancers across the continent. When we release a song, we might need to pay 50 to 100 TikTokers, aged 18 and up, between $100 to $1,000 per post.
“We can now send this money to 20 African countries simultaneously. If they don’t get paid, they won’t upload their videos. Payments are made before performance, and thanks to FinTech and mobile money, we can distribute funds directly to their mobile wallets.”
Mr. Eazi
While AI is transforming music creation and production, it’s important to note that it is still a tool to be used by musicians and producers.
Ultimately, human creativity and artistic expression remain at the core of music production, with AI serving as a powerful assistant and collaborator.
Music Copyright Protection
Technology has indeed played a significant role in protecting music copyrights
Digital Rights Management (DRM) technologies were developed to control the access and distribution of digital music. DRM systems encrypt music files and restrict their usage, preventing unauthorized copying or sharing. This helps protect the rights of copyright holders and ensures that they receive proper compensation for their work.
Watermarking and fingerprinting techniques embed unique identifiers into digital music files. These identifiers are used to track and identify copyrighted material, even if it has been altered or copied. This helps in detecting unauthorized use of copyrighted music and provides evidence in legal proceedings.
Online platforms and streaming services use content identification systems to scan and analyze uploaded music for copyrighted material. These systems compare the uploaded content with a database of registered music to identify potential copyright infringement. When a match is found, the copyright holder is notified, and appropriate actions are taken.
Blockchain, a decentralized and transparent ledger, has the potential to revolutionize music copyright protection. It provides a secure and immutable record of ownership, licensing, and distribution of music. Smart contracts automatically enforce copyright terms and ensure that artists receive fair compensation for their work.
Advanced data analytics and monitoring tools help copyright holders identify instances of unauthorized use of their music across various platforms. These tools track and analyze online activities, detect copyright infringement, and provide valuable insights for legal action.
Mr. Eazi discussed the significant advancements in protecting music copyrights using technology. He pointed out that the music industry boasts some of the most sophisticated copyright protection systems.
“You know, music today is one of the most advanced copyright protection systems in the world. With Shazam, you can identify a song instantly, whether it was made in Kumasi or Tamale. Each uploaded song has a digital DNA and an international ASRC number. At Empawa, my music label, we’ve successfully frozen monetization on major artists’ albums when they’ve used our producers’ work without credit, ensuring proper attribution.”
Mr. Eazi
These advancements in technology have improved the ability to protect music copyrights, deter piracy, and ensure that artists and copyright holders are fairly compensated for their creations.
However, it is an ongoing challenge, and new technologies continue to evolve to address emerging copyright issues.
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