Off Script: Why AI doesn’t scare me - Isla Noon

In a recent column for the New Zealand Herald, Shani Sauerman, known by her stage name Isla Noon, shared her thoughts on the controversial use of music in training artificial intelligence (AI) systems. Despite the uproar within the Australasian music community over allegations of music theft by AI companies, Noon expresses a sense of calm rather than fear regarding the implications of AI on her work and the industry at large.

The controversy began when Apra Amcos, a music rights organization in Australasia, made a striking announcement that resonated throughout the New Zealand music scene. The organization claimed that numerous songs from both well-known and emerging artists had been unlawfully appropriated by AI companies for training purposes. The post, which was shared widely, included prominent names such as Crowded House and Lorde, but soon smaller artists, including Noon, revealed that their music was also included in this troubling list. Upon discovering that three of her own songs had been taken without permission, Noon turned to AI Watchdog, an online tool designed to help artists identify if their music has been misused.

Noon’s song "Body" was among those listed as having been used without a license. This particular track serves as a personal narrative about her experiences as a young woman navigating societal perceptions of her body. For Noon, the authenticity of her lived experiences is a crucial element of her artistry. She argues that no matter how advanced AI may become in generating music, it cannot replicate the human essence that comes from genuine personal experiences. As she articulates, “no matter how sophisticated a songwriter attempts to masquerade as off the back of stealing from artists, it will never actually be human.”

The sentiment that AI cannot capture the soul of human creativity is echoed by Naomi McPherson of the band Muna, who stated, “They can’t upload my soul.” This perspective highlights a growing belief among artists that the influx of AI-generated music may ultimately enhance the value of music created by real individuals. Fans, according to Noon, will continue to seek out authentic connections with artists who have lived real lives, as opposed to engaging with synthetic creations.

The Value of Authenticity

Noon posits that as the internet becomes increasingly saturated with AI-generated music, the demand for authentic, human-made music will rise. She suggests that the distinction between AI music and music made by real people will become more pronounced, leading to a greater appreciation for the latter. This perspective is rooted in the belief that genuine human experiences resonate more deeply with listeners, creating a connection that AI cannot replicate.

In a world where AI music may trend, passionate music fans are likely to gravitate towards artists who share their personal stories and experiences. Noon believes that this shift could result in a pendulum swing, where the value placed on authentic music will increase as AI-generated content becomes more commonplace. This dynamic could foster a renewed appreciation for artists who pour their hearts into their work, making their creations more treasured by audiences.

However, while Noon acknowledges the importance of protecting artists' rights in the face of AI encroachment, she remains unfazed by the presence of AI music itself. She emphasizes the need for lawmakers to take action to safeguard creators' rights and ensure that copyright frameworks are not undermined. Yet, her personal stance is clear: AI music does not intimidate her. Instead, she finds solace in the communal experience of live performances, where genuine human connection thrives.

As she concludes, the essence of music lies in shared experiences, and the joy of live shows will continue to foster a sense of humanity that AI cannot replicate. Noon’s perspective serves as a reminder that while technology continues to evolve, the core of artistic expression remains rooted in the human experience.

Isla Noon, an alt-pop artist based in Auckland, has recently released her album "Out Of Body (REDUX)." Her reflections on the intersection of AI and music underscore a broader conversation about the future of creativity in an increasingly digital world.

Why it matters

Noon’s insights into the relationship between AI and music highlight critical issues for creators and technologists alike. As AI technology advances, the potential for misuse of creative works raises significant concerns about copyright infringement and the protection of artists' rights. The need for robust legal frameworks that can adapt to technological changes is paramount in ensuring that artists are compensated for their work.

Moreover, Noon’s belief in the enduring value of authentic human experiences suggests that while AI may change the landscape of music creation, it cannot replace the emotional connections that listeners forge with artists. This perspective is crucial for creators as they navigate the evolving industry, emphasizing the importance of authenticity in their work. As the music community continues to grapple with these challenges, Noon’s reflections serve as a beacon of hope for artists striving to maintain their unique voices in a world increasingly influenced by technology.