Renowned rapper Ice Cube recently voiced his disdain for AI-generated songs and expressed his willingness to take legal action against those responsible for using his likeness without permission. During an interview on the Full Send podcast, Cube was asked about an AI track imitating Drake and The Weeknd called “Heart On My Sleeve.” In response, he condemned the practice, referring to it as “demonic.” Cube asserted that he would sue both the creators of such tracks and the platforms that play them, comparing it to unauthorized sampling. He believes that AI will face backlash from real artists and organic music enthusiasts.
Cube is not the only artist expressing concerns about artificial intelligence. Young Guru, a music producer, criticized AI-generated Kendrick Lamar tracks in a February 2023 Instagram post. He highlighted the ethical and legal implications of AI programs like Tacotron 2, which can mimic voices without copyright protection. Young Guru pointed out the potential for misuse, noting that individuals could create entire albums in the voice of their favorite musicians. Furthermore, he emphasized the broader implications of AI technology, raising concerns about the potential creation of manipulated individuals in various industries. He also highlighted the lack of laws in some areas, such as revenge porn, which further compounds the ethical challenges associated with AI.
These statements from Ice Cube and Young Guru shed light on the apprehensions surrounding AI-generated content and its potential impact on the music industry and society at large. The discussion extends beyond copyright issues and delves into the ethical considerations of utilizing AI in creative endeavors. Both artists raise valid concerns about the need for regulations and safeguards to prevent the misuse of AI technology. As AI continues to advance, it becomes increasingly crucial to address these concerns, foster dialogue among artists, technologists, and policymakers, and establish frameworks that protect the rights and integrity of human creativity in the face of emerging AI capabilities.
