AI or real talent?

Much has been reported about the creation of music with AI technologies. It is appearing everywhere so we thought we would give an explainer and also describe Muxu Artists position on the subject.

Smokin' Wolf - embracing new technologies but built on good old-fashioned talent

What Do We Mean by "AI"?

Artificial Intelligence has become one of the most frequently used terms in technology, but it is often used to describe a wide range of tools that are not necessarily intelligent in the way most people imagine.

In music, much of what is marketed as AI is actually a combination of machine learning, vast data processing and sophisticated software models capable of recognising patterns and generating outputs based on what they have learned. Because the results can appear creative and human-like, the term "AI" has become the catch-all description.

Today, a growing number of companies offer platforms that allow users to generate songs simply by entering prompts. These systems are trained on large amounts of existing music and use that knowledge to create new outputs in familiar styles. While impressive from a technical perspective, these tools have also sparked significant debate about originality, creativity and the future of music.

The Impact on the Music Industry

There is little doubt that prompt-based music generation allows huge volumes of music to be created quickly and cheaply. This has led to concerns about the increasing commoditisation of music and the potential flooding of streaming platforms with content created without the involvement of musicians, composers or performers.

When people discuss the negative impact of AI on the music industry, they are often referring to these prompt-based systems rather than the wider range of technologies currently used in professional music production.

However, not all AI-related technologies are the same, and many have become valuable creative tools in the hands of skilled musicians.

How AI Is Being Used Responsibly

Perhaps the most significant development in recent years has been the emergence of advanced voice-generation technology.

Traditionally, creating a vocal track required a songwriter or producer to provide a backing track to a singer, who would then record and deliver a vocal performance. While this process remains common, new technologies now allow musicians to create vocal performances using software-based voice models.

Some genres, particularly electronic dance music, have experimented with synthetic and manipulated vocals for decades. Today, however, these technologies are being adopted across almost every genre of music.

Understanding MIDI and Voice Generation

To understand how modern voice generation works, it helps to understand MIDI.

For decades, MIDI has been a fundamental part of music production. In simple terms, a MIDI keyboard sends performance data to a computer, including information such as which notes were played, when they were played and how hard they were struck.

Traditionally, this data is routed through virtual instruments, often known as VSTs (Virtual Studio Technology). A virtual piano, for example, contains recordings of every note at multiple playing intensities. When MIDI data is sent to the instrument, the software reproduces a realistic piano performance.

This technology has been central to music production for many years and is used extensively across virtually all modern genres.

Voice generation follows a similar principle.

Instead of triggering piano samples or synthesiser sounds, MIDI data can now control sophisticated voice models. Producers can adjust lyrics, phrasing, expression, timing, breath control and other performance characteristics to shape the final result.

The technology is powerful, but it still requires musical knowledge, creative judgement and extensive editing to create a convincing and emotionally engaging performance.

How Muxu Artists Use These Tools

Some Muxu artists use voice-generation technology as part of their creative workflow.

In the case of Smokin' Wolf, for example, a musician may first perform the vocal melody themselves. That performance is recorded and converted into MIDI data, which can then be refined and edited. The MIDI information is routed through a custom voice model that has been developed to suit the artistic vision of the project.

The resulting vocal is not simply generated from a text prompt. It is the product of composition, performance, arrangement, editing and production.

The technology becomes another instrument within the creative process, much like a synthesiser, piano or guitar VST. Used in this way, it can expand artistic possibilities while remaining firmly under the control of musicians and producers.

The Difference Between Creation and Generation

At Muxu, we believe there is an important distinction between creating music and generating music.

Technology has always played a central role in music production. From multitrack tape machines and drum machines to synthesisers and digital audio workstations, musicians have continually embraced new tools to expand creative possibilities.

The concern arises when technology is used not as a creative tool, but as a replacement for creativity itself.

Prompt-based music generation can create impressive results, but it is often difficult for users to meaningfully shape, develop or refine the output beyond the initial generation. The result can feel more like an approximation of music than the product of artistic intention and craftsmanship.

For musicians, composers and producers who have spent years developing their skills, this raises important questions about authorship, value and artistic identity.

Our Position

When distributing music today, rights holders are increasingly being offered the opportunity to license their catalogues to AI companies for training purposes.

In simple terms, this means allowing AI models to learn from existing music so that users can generate new works based on those learned patterns.

At Muxu, we have chosen not to participate in these programmes.

We believe that artists should retain control over how their work is used and that the long-term value of creativity should not be sacrificed for short-term financial incentives.

For that reason, we have said no, and we intend to continue saying no.

How to Support Independent Artists

Independent artists are the foundation of a diverse and healthy music ecosystem.

Supporting them helps ensure that original music continues to be created and discovered.

You can help by:

• Streaming and sharing their music.

• Attending live performances and events.

• Purchasing merchandise directly from artists.

• Following and supporting them on social media.

• Recommending their music to friends and family.

Every stream, ticket purchase and recommendation makes a difference.

Muxu exists to showcase unique artists, original voices and authentic creativity. By supporting independent musicians, listeners help create a richer and more vibrant musical landscape for everyone.

Conclusion

Technology itself is neither good nor bad. Its value depends entirely on how it is used.

At Muxu, we believe technology should empower artists rather than replace them.

Innovation can open exciting new creative possibilities, but the heart of music will always remain the same: human imagination, emotional expression and artistic vision.

As listeners, we all have a role to play. Be curious about how music is made, support independent creators and value the craft behind the art you consume.

Thank you for reading.