Thousands of Australian musicians believe Artificial Intelligence will destroy their ability to make a living, according to large-scale research. A survey of more than 4200 songwriters and composers from Australia and New Zealand found 82 per cent are concerned the technology will mean they can no longer support themselves by making music. The survey commissioned by music rights body APRA AMCOS is believed to be the largest yet conducted in the region looking at how the industry is dealing with AI.
"Music is fundamental to how we express ourselves, and how we connect with each other," said Jimmy Barnes in the research released on Monday. "If we let something 'artificial' take it over - no matter how 'intelligent' that machine is supposed to be - then we will lose part of what it means to be human." Other big name artists including Bernard Fanning, Peter Garrett, Tina Arena and Clare Bowditch echoed this sentiment, calling for stronger regulation to stop copyright infringement.
"The use of already copyrighted music to train AI to then go on to compose is a major factor for me. I can't see how it is legal or moral," Fanning said. However, the technology could help grow audiences on streaming platforms and help with songwriting, artists Dami Im and Sophie Payten (aka Gordi) said.
"It can be a great tool to assist in generating new musical ideas," Im said. More than half (54 per cent) of respondents agreed the technology could help the creative process, with 38 per cent are alrea.