The Future of Music and AI: Insights from Avenged Sevenfold’s M. Shadows
Avenged Sevenfold frontman Matt Sanders, known as M. Shadows, is optimistic about the role of AI in the music industry, believing that it is not a matter of if but when AI will gain traction in creating music. He believes that in 20 years, the distinction between music created by humans and robots will be irrelevant to listeners.
AI as a Creative Tool
- Sanders views AI as a tool similar to a thesaurus or Google for songwriters
- AI can analyze a songwriter’s entire body of work to create something similar to their style
AI’s Influence on Various Industries
- Sanders acknowledges that AI has opened Pandora’s Box and is set to revolutionize several industries
- He ponders on the different ways AI can be utilized, such as replicating voices, songs, or assisting with chord changes
Empowering Fans with AI
- Sanders envisions a future where fans can use AI trained on Avenged Sevenfold’s music to create their own versions of songs
- This concept aligns with Grimes’ promise of sharing AI-generated music royalties with fans using her voice
Mixed Reactions to AI in Music
- While some artists like Avenged Sevenfold embrace AI, others like Billie Eilish and Katy Perry have expressed concerns about its impact on creativity
- An open letter signed by over 200 musicians called for a stop to the irresponsible use of AI in music creation
The Power of Human Creativity
- Sanders believes that human creativity still outshines AI as it can take audiences to unexplored territories
- He acknowledges the potential for AI to evolve and potentially match or surpass human creative abilities in the future
Hot Take: Navigating the Future of Music with AI
As the music industry grapples with the integration of AI, artists like Avenged Sevenfold’s M. Shadows maintain an optimistic outlook on its potential. While some question the impact of AI on artistic integrity, Sanders sees it as a valuable tool for enhancing creativity and empowering both artists and fans. The evolving relationship between AI and music underscores the need for a balanced approach that leverages technology while preserving the essence of human expression in music creation.