Stereophonics frontman Kelly Jones has joined the growing number of artists who are speaking out against the increasing use of artificial intelligence (AI) in the music industry. During an interview with Times Radio at the Latitude Festival, Jones expressed his belief that art should come from real human expression.
Jones admitted that he only became aware of the prevalence of AI technology in songwriting after attending the Ivor Novello Awards earlier this year. He expressed his reservations about how AI is being used to “finish off people’s songwriting” and emphasized the importance of art coming from genuine human emotion and creativity.
The singer criticized the idea of a computer completing an artist’s idea, stating that it reduces the process to algorithms and removes the personal touch. Jones also expressed his disapproval of songs that involve multiple songwriters, comparing it to a painting where multiple painters contribute to the work, questioning whose creation it truly is.
Jones is not the only artist who has expressed concerns about AI in the music industry. Nick Cave and Sting have also voiced their doubts about AI’s impact on human creativity. However, Billy Corgan of the Smashing Pumpkins has a different perspective, believing that AI will revolutionize music and allow for new ways to manipulate the system.
In addition to his criticisms of AI, Jones discussed his newly formed band, Far From Saints, and their recently released self-titled album. He emphasized that the album is meant to be listened to from start to finish as a complete work.
Far From Saints will be embarking on a UK tour in November and December, starting in Birmingham and concluding in London. Tickets are available for purchase.
Overall, Jones’s concerns about AI in songwriting reflect a wider debate within the music industry about how technology is shaping the creative process and the role of human expression in art.