In a recent interview with Billboard, Mick Jagger and Keith Richards of The Rolling Stones shared their perspectives on the growing influence of artificial intelligence (AI) in the music industry. As the band continues to embrace technological advancements, the legendary musicians expressed a cautious approach to AI’s role in music creation, emphasising the significance of authenticity and originality.
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The discussion follows the Rolling Stones’ innovative use of deepfake technology in their latest music video for “In the Stars,” which features digital renditions of their youthful selves. Jagger described the project as an enjoyable experience, noting that while the faces may have been altered to resemble their 1968 selves, the musicians performing in the video were real and actively engaged in the recording process. He remarked, “It’s only the faces of the musicians that are different. They’re not fake people in a fake room; they’re all in a room, really playing together.”
Richards referred to the music video as “our brushing with AI” and expressed his amusement at the transformation, quipping, “I wish I looked like that now.” However, he was clear about his reservations regarding AI’s use in music creation itself, stating, “I’d rather hear something original.” Richards highlighted the necessity for music to evolve beyond mere imitation, explaining, “Music could do a lot better than just trying to copy itself.”
The guitarist argued for the value of originality, contending that the essence of music should encourage exploration rather than be confined to repetitious patterns. “We want new input. We don’t want more and more copying and synthesising,” he added. His perspective underscores a belief that the art of music belongs to those who innovate rather than replicate.
Jagger echoed Richards’ sentiments regarding the implications of AI technology. He asserted that he does not wish to be replicated by AI, whether vocally or instrumentally, and expressed concern over the potential for AI-generated music to mimic The Rolling Stones. “I think that’s obviously wrong,” he stated. Jagger’s comments reveal an underlying fear that AI could undermine the authenticity of musicianship, reducing it to mere imitation.
Despite acknowledging that AI might have its place in visual mediums like music videos, both Jagger and Richards were adamant that it should not intrude into the creative core of music composition. Jagger highlighted his belief that genuine creative input is crucial, stating, “If someone wants to make music by AI, go ahead. But it has to be original — you have to have your own input and your own thoughts.”
The Rolling Stones’ latest album, “Foreign Tongues,” released on July 10, marks a continuation of their storied legacy in rock music. Even as the band navigates the landscape of modern technology, they remain committed to maintaining a human touch in their creative outputs. Richards and Jagger’s assertions serve as a reminder that while technology can serve as a tool, the essence of music will always lie in personal expression and originality.
As the debate around the role of AI in music intensifies, the perspectives of seasoned musicians like Jagger and Richards shed light on the potential pitfalls of a world increasingly driven by artificial creation. They represent a voice of caution, advocating for the preservation of the artistic integrity that has defined music for generations.
In a world where AI-generated content is becoming more prevalent, the Rolling Stones’ commitment to authenticity resonates strongly. It is a call to fellow artists and the music community to prioritise creativity and personal touch over mechanical duplication. The future of music, they assert, should remain firmly in the hands of the human spirit.