In today's world, artificial intelligence (AI) technology is becoming more and more ubiquitous in everyday life. This groundbreaking innovation has undoubtedly caused a transformation in how society functions. From streamlining business practices through advanced data analysis to proofreading emails, AI is here to stay. Unsurprisingly, the independent music industry is no exception to this wave of innovation.
AI-based tools are rapidly evolving, assisting musicians at every stage of the process, from composition to distribution! Today, musicians can access software that can streamline music creation, as well as provide inspiration and fill gaps in areas where they may lack expertise. By incorporating AI technology into DAW’s (digital audio workstations), as well as having access to OpenAI such as ChatGPT, some would say it has never been easier to make and distribute your own music.
However, with these new advancements and innovations it is also crucial to consider what does this shift mean for how music is shared and consumed?
New music industry opportunities thanks to AI
To answer this question I have spoken with independent musicians Brenda Román and Paula Simón to gain more insight. Both artists acknowledged the benefits of working in an era where streaming platforms and the internet allow musicians to operate outside traditional record label structures. “It’s easier nowadays than it was 40 years ago”, Paula noted “But it’s still difficult at times, too”.
The worldwide adoption of streaming platforms such as Spotify have democratised music access, today society is no longer limited geographically and users of these platforms can now listen to any song they please in a matter of seconds. Furthermore, these platforms offer an avenue to share their work directly with audiences and engage with fans on social media.
However, while streaming has opened doors, it hasn’t eliminated all obstacles. “As independent artists, we have other jobs to take care of. We have to do our own tasks”, Paula explained. “At the same time, you have to keep putting out music all the time”. The entrepreneurial nature of being an independent musician means artists juggle multiple roles: creator, social media marketer and manager, all while maintaining a steady output of content.
Leveraging AI tools
When both musicians were asked if they used AI tools to help juggle the multitude of tasks they handled daily in order to maintain a growing music career, Brenda emphasises the important role of tools such as OpenAI for time saving: “There are so many tools nowadays that we've been using. For example, just if you use ChatGPT, you can have content ideas and schedule ideas on how to organise your content, as well using social media analytics” . Evidently, AI tools are a great way of time saving and an essential part of any new musician's tool kit. However, both musicians advised you must spend time learning how to get the most out of the analytics and advice provided by platforms such as Spotify for Artists and ChatGPT, “It's so difficult to reach an audience if you're not active 24/7. It's really hard, especially now in Tiktok” Paula remarked.
Overall, it seems for now while AI can be a great tool to help independent artists balance many different tasks when it comes to marketing and self-promotion, it requires a lot of time and effort which can be difficult for those working other jobs to supplement income. Further, as the price of touring continues to occur many different expenses in an ever increasingly saturated industry it seems independent musicians still have their work cut out for them.
As technology advances, it is clear its ability to provide marketing aids, cheap music education and provide inspiration will only get better. For now, the best way to help independent musicians is to show your support. Engage with them online, share their music, and attend their events whenever possible. As AI becomes a more integral part of the music industry, it’s essential to balance technological advancements with the human connections that make music meaningful!
Do you have any thoughts on this topic? Feel free to send me a DM on our insta @mediterraneangirlsinmusic ;)