Hozier would strike against AI use in music

LONDON: Irish musician Hozier has expressed his readiness to consider participating in a potential strike aimed at addressing the potential threat of artificial intelligence (AI) to the music industry.

As Hollywood actors and writers currently engage in a strike focused on contract improvements and safeguards against AI utilisation, Hozier revealed his willingness to join a similar movement within the music world.

Speaking to BBC’s Newsnight, the acclaimed singer acknowledged his uncertainty about whether AI truly fits the definition of art. Hozier, known for his hit song “Take Me to Church,” commented on the ongoing debate surrounding the creative capabilities of AI, stating, “Whether [AI is] art or not, I think, is nearly a philosophical debate. It can’t create something based on a human experience. So I don’t know if it meets the definition of art.”

The music industry has yet to witness the same level of strike action seen in Hollywood, where actors and writers are currently protesting the use of “digital replicas” of performers created through AI. The technology’s potential to compose songs or mimic the styles of well-known artists has raised concerns among musicians.

In a significant move earlier this year, a song utilizing AI to replicate the voices of Drake and The Weeknd was removed from streaming platforms due to allegations of copyright infringement.

The discussion on AI’s impact on the music industry continues to evolve. Recently, the Financial Times reported discussions between Google and Universal Music regarding the licensing of artists’ melodies and voices for AI-generated songs. This development underscores the ongoing exploration of the relationship between music and technology.

Hollywood actors, writers go on strike