The debate over the eligibility of AI-generated music for prestigious awards like the Grammys took a definitive turn when Harvey Mason Jr., the CEO of the Recording Academy, clarified that such music is not eligible for consideration. Mason’s statement came in response to a recent controversy surrounding an AI-generated track titled “Heart on My Sleeve.”
AI-generated music has been a hot topic in the music industry, with supporters touting it as a groundbreaking leap in musical innovation. However, critics argue that it lacks the emotional depth and authenticity of human artistry. A federal judge’s recent decision, upholding the US Copyright Office’s verdict, emphasized the importance of human involvement in the creative process.
The controversy deepened when an anonymous artist known as Ghostwriter submitted an AI-generated track imitating voices of renowned artists like Drake and The Weeknd for Grammy consideration. Despite being composed by a human, Mason clarified that the vocals were not legally obtained, not cleared by the label or the artists, and the song was not commercially available. The Grammys, it appears, remain steadfast in celebrating the work of human artists and creators, asserting that AI-generated music does not meet their eligibility criteria.