ai Archives - New Hip Hop News

Timbaland Becomes Strategic Advisor To Leading AI Music Company Suno

October 22, 2024 by newhiphopnews

Making yet another major move, four-time GRAMMY® Award-winning multi-platinum artist, creator, entrepreneur, philanthropist, and one of the most influential music producers of all-time Timbaland has announced an official partnership with leading AI music creation tool Suno. After months of being a top user of the platform, he has formalized his involvement as a strategic advisor to push forward creative strategy and inspire a new generation of artists to innovate and create.

To kick off the collaboration, Timbaland is previewing his latest single, “Love Again,” exclusively on the platform, and inviting the community to participate in a remix contest, which opens in 24 hours:

Link to the contest HERE

The remix contest will include feedback and judging from Timbaland himself, with over $100K in prizes for winning remixes, along with the opportunity to have Timbaland release the top two remixes of “Love Again” on DSPs.

Timbaland’s collaboration with Suno underscores his commitment to shaping the future of music while fostering the next generation of creators. This partnership aligns with Suno’s mission to invite musicians—whether seasoned professionals or those just beginning their journey—to experiment, collaborate, and create groundbreaking music together.

In the debut episode of Suno’s new video series, MU SE, Timbaland offers an inside look into how the platform is helping him rediscover the purity of creativity, and how he’s using Suno’s innovative tools to redefine his approach to music production.

“When I heard what Suno was doing, I was immediately curious,” said Timbaland. “After witnessing the potential, I knew I had to be a part of it. By combining forces, we have a unique opportunity to make new technologies work for the artist community and not the other way around. We’re seizing that opportunity, and we’re going to open up the floodgates for generations of artists to flourish on this new frontier. I’m excited and grateful to Suno for this opportunity.”

Taking an active role, the producer will support Suno with day-to-day product development and strategic creative direction in order to ensure new generative music tools will meet the needs of both established and emerging artists. This partnership places Timbaland on the ground floor of what has all the makings of the next music industry revolution.

“It’s an honor to work with a legend like Timbaland. At Suno, we’re really excited about exploring new ways for fans to engage with their favorite artists. With Timbaland’s guidance, we’re helping musicians create music at the speed of their ideas — whether they’re just starting out or already selling out stadiums. We couldn’t be more excited for what’s ahead!”said Mikey Shulman, CEO of Suno.

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Why Artists Should Use AI Image Generators for Album Covers

September 30, 2024 by newhiphopnews

Album covers are crucial in defining a musician’s brand and visual identity. It is often the first thing fans see, giving them a glimpse of the tone and style of the music. AI image generators now give artists new tools to create stunning album covers.

These AI tools simplify the design process, making it faster and more accessible. This blog will explore why artists should consider using AI image generators for their album covers.

The Importance of Album Covers in Music

Album covers is more than just a visual accessory. It reflects the essence of the music and the musician’s vision. A striking album cover can make a memorable impression on listeners, adding depth to the music.

Iconic album covers like Pink Floyd’s The Dark Side of the Moon or Nirvana’s Nevermind have become symbols in music history. The right album covers can engage listeners. They can build a stronger connection with your audience.

What Are AI Image Generators

An AI image generator is a tool that uses artificial intelligence to create images based on text prompts or existing visuals. You can simply describe your vision, and the AI generates artwork in minutes. Popular tools like Imagine Art allow users to experiment with different styles, themes, and concepts.

These tools are perfect for artists who want to create unique, eye-catching album covers without needing design skills.

Benefits of Using AI Image Generators for Album Covers

Here are the benefits of using an AI image generator to get album covers.

Cost-Effective

AI image generators offer an affordable way to create professional-quality album covers. Artists no longer need to hire expensive designers to achieve their vision. AI tools provide a budget-friendly option without compromising on quality.

Time-Saving

AI speeds up the creative process. Instead of waiting for revisions or brainstorming with a designer, artists can generate high-quality album covers in minutes. This is especially helpful when working on tight deadlines.

Creative Flexibility

AI image generators allow artists to experiment with different styles and concepts. Whether you’re looking for something abstract, futuristic, or minimalistic, AI can generate endless options. You can refine these options to align with your artistic vision.

Customization

Despite being automated, AI image generators give users control over the final design. artists can adjust elements like colors, textures, and styles to match their music and brand. The customization options ensure the album covers is unique to the artist.

Consistency Across Platforms

With AI tools, artists can ensure their album cover looks great across all platforms, from streaming services to social media. AI-generated images are high-quality and easily adaptable, providing consistency in your visual branding.

How AI Has Changed the Way We Create NFTs

Before AI image generators, making album covers required hiring designers or using complex software for hours. AI has simplified this process. Artists can now create multiple variations of their artwork in seconds, saving both time and effort.

With tools like Imagine Art offering access to over 40 models and 90+ art styles, the possibilities are endless. AI ensures that no two designs are the same, allowing artists to stand out in a crowded industry.

AI Image Generators vs. Traditional Designers

AI image generators offer an alternative to hiring a traditional designer. While designers provide personalized insights and collaboration, AI tools are faster and more affordable. With AI, artists can produce multiple concepts quickly, without waiting for revisions.

On the other hand, designers might be better for complex, highly specific projects. AI is ideal for those who need flexibility, speed, and budget-friendly solutions.

How to Get Started with AI Image Generators for Album Covers

Step 1: Choose an AI Tool

Start by selecting an AI image generator. Popular options include Imagine Art, DALL-E, and Artbreeder. These platforms offer user-friendly interfaces and high-quality results.

Step 2: Upload Your Ideas or Image

If you have a specific idea or image in mind, upload it to the AI tool. You can also enter text prompts that describe the concept you want for your album covers.

Step 3: Choose Your Style

Select the style that fits your music. You can choose from abstract, realistic, or minimalistic designs. AI tools provide a variety of art styles to suit your vision.

Step 4: Customize the Details

Refine your design by adjusting colors, contrast, and textures. Some tools allow you to tweak the image further, ensuring that the final design aligns with your brand.

Step 5: Generate and Review

Once your settings are ready, generate your album cover. Review the different versions, and choose the one that best represents your music.

Step 6: Download and Share

Once satisfied, download your album cover. You can now upload it to your music platforms or share it on social media.

Conclusion

AI image generators are revolutionizing the way artists create album covers. These tools offer efficiency, creative flexibility, and cost-effective solutions. Whether you’re an established artist or a newcomer, AI empowers you to explore new creative possibilities. Ready to create stunning album covers? Dive into AI tools like Imagine Art and unlock the future of music visuals.

The post Why Artists Should Use AI Image Generators for Album Covers first appeared on .

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Kanye West Accused By Redditors Of Egregious AI Use On “VULTURES 2”

September 18, 2024 by newhiphopnews

You could make a very good argument that Kanye West (unfortunately) is starting to lose that creative magic he once possessed for so long. Overall, you’re not going to find many hip-hop fans who feel that rapper, singer, and producer had a mediocre record from 2004-2021. However, the conversation surrounding his VULTURES era is vastly different. Yes, there are going to be some way too loyal Ye stans who swear that his last two projects have been good. But in general, both entries into this unfinished trilogy are a far cry from his previous efforts. Many have been fed up with how messy and lifeless the tracks are on them, and diligent Redditors claim to have one major reason as to why.

After receiving VULTURES 2, some listeners felt there was some use of AI, particularly on “SKY CITY” with CyHi’s verse. Users on the forum are claiming that there’s hardly any doubt that these suspicions are true. However, they feel Kanye didn’t stop there. Other tracks include “FIELD TRIP”, citing “rough punch-in vocals of him doing lines Ty Dolla $ign did on the full CDQ leak” as the source. Furthermore, “FOREVER”, which was recently updated with a new Ye verse, sounds off in the cadence and flow department. For this one, they claim to have the exact AI model that was utilized.

Redditors Believe They Have Exposed Kanye West’s AI Usage

Kanye West exposed for using AI vocals in at least three recent tracks
byu/Batby inhiphopheads

Finally, Redditors also feel that they have evidence for a recent unreleased Skepta and Kanye collab. As it stands, contributors are pretty positive that “SKY CITY”, “FOREVER”, and the Skepta track are “almost certainly” containing AI. Then, “FIELD TRIP” and the highly sought after Childish Gambino cut, “Say Less”, are “speculated to be containing AI vocals. Overall, commenters are pretty disappointed as they think that his best days are gone and are missing “the old Kanye”.

What are your thoughts on Redditors claiming to have evidence of Kanye West using AI for VULTURES 2?Are you buying this? Is Kanye starting to fall off, why or why not? Do you think him and Ty Dolla $ign should still deliver the third album in this trilogy? We would like to hear what you have to say, so leave your thoughts in the comments. Additionally, always keep it locked in with HNHH for all of the latest news surrounding Kanye West. Finally, stay with us for everything else going on in the music world.

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The post Kanye West Accused By Redditors Of Egregious AI Use On “VULTURES 2” appeared first on HotNewHipHop.

AI Was Used In A Massive Streaming Fraud Case, Generating Billions Of Streams And $10 Million In Royalty Payments

September 5, 2024 by newhiphopnews

The use of artificial intelligence (AI) in music has been a hot topic for a while now, but so far, we’ve only seen the tip of the iceberg of implications advanced algorithms can have for the recording industry. While artists speak out against the use of generative AI in the creation of songs and the Recording Academy grapples with its legitimacy for Grammy Awards, courts around the world are now being confronted with the use of AI in schemes aimed at defrauding streaming platforms with AI-generated songs and streams.

According to the Associated Press, one such case currently being litigated revolves around a North Carolina man who created hundreds of thousands of songs using AI, then streamed those songs billions of times to generate over $10 million in royalty payments for himself, cheating legitimate musicians and labels out of potential profits from streamers’ royalty pools. The man, 52-year-old Michael Smith, is charged with fraud and conspiracy, and could face around 60 years in prison if convicted.

By creating thousands of phony accounts on services such as Apple, Spotify, and Tidal, Smith streamed his AI-generated songs upwards of 600,000 times a day. In the federal indictment against him, Smith is quoted as boasting about his profits — over $1 million a year since 2018, when he allegedly launched the conspiracy alongside a music promoter and the chief executive of an AI music company — in an email. He even denied that what he was doing was fraud, when a music distributor questioned him about it.

Whether he genuinely did realize it was fraud or was just covering, it’s clear that the technology has upended the recording industry yet again, and that the potential posed by AI don’t only affect artists.

Actors Strike To Stop AI Takeover in Video Games

August 2, 2024 by newhiphopnews

By: Zachary Abbott

With the growth of AI in nearly every industry, workers have begun taking up arms to protect their jobs from the encroachment of AI replacements. In 2023, the Screen Actors Guild – American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA) and the Writers of Guild of America (WGA) both went on strike against the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers (AMTP) after strikes that were some of the longest held in the film and TV industry, SAG-AFTRA and the WGA were able to obtain protections for their members against use of AI without consent or compensation.

This dispute has arisen between video game developers and the actors who provide the voices and images for their video game characters. Effective July 26th, Screen Actors Guild – American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA) members who perform in video games have gone on strike against video game companies signed onto the Interactive Media Agreement. After a year and a half of negotiations over the Interactive Media Agreement, the video game companies still refuse to affirm outright that video game voice actors will be granted rights over how their voice, image, and work are used in training AI or creating AI-generated copies.

These negotiations began in October 2022, and while agreement has been reached on most other important points, AI protections have split the two sides. SAG-AFTRA asks that any game looking to employ SAG-AFTRA talent be signed onto the new Tiered-Budget Independent Interactive Media Agreement and the Interim Interactive Media Agreement or the Interim Interactive Localization Agreement. These agreements aim to give SAG-AFTRA members the right of consent to use their faces, voices, and bodies by AI, which are rights that performers in film and TV already have. Without these protections, video game companies could use AI to replicate performers without compensation or consent and would put them out of work. These Agreements force video game companies to be upfront about their intentions and obtain the consent of actors they seek to replicate through AI.

The strike was authorized on September 24th, 2023, with a 98.32% yes vote. Similar strikes in the industry have benefitted entertainers and creatives, so SAG-AFTRA feels confident that it can ultimately achieve the same results. That said, the strike will be an uphill battle, with SAG-AFTRA members striking against the video game industry titans, including divisions of Activision, EA, Insomniac, Warner Brothers, and Disney.

The post Actors Strike To Stop AI Takeover in Video Games first appeared on The Source.

The post Actors Strike To Stop AI Takeover in Video Games appeared first on The Source.

AI Companies Tied To Creation Of “BBL Drizzy” Are Being Sued By The RIAA

June 25, 2024 by newhiphopnews

The RIAA is taking a stand against the highly controversial use of AI in music. According to AllHipHop and CNN, The Recording Industry Association of America is filing two lawsuits against a pair of companies in the space for their contributions to the creation of “BBL Drizzy”. The latter quickly went viral during its use in the Drake versus Kendrick Lamar beef, mainly due to Metro Boomin. The superstar producer initiated a challenge to other rappers to give their best stuff over the instrumental. Whoever won the contest would receive $10,000 reward and a free beat. However, the original “BBL Drizzy” sample can be credited to internet comedian, King Willonius.

The latter used the AI platform, Udio, which is itself developed by Uncharted Labs. The RIAA is targeting the latter, as well as Suno. The organization feels it is entirely necessary to approach it in this way because they feel that both are performing “blatant infringement”. Neither Uncharted Labs nor Suno have commented on the impending legal action, according to CNN.

The RIAA Is Fighting Against AI & “BBL Drizzy”

In the paperwork from the RIAA, their overarching argument is this, “If developed with the permission and participation of copyright owners, generative AI tools will be able to assist humans in creating and producing new and innovative music. [But] without regard for fundamental copyright protections”, there could be “irreparable harm”, as well as a “[reduction] the quality of new music”. Furthermore, the RIAA adds, “These digital music files have been released to the public—some already finding their way onto the major streaming services—and compete with the copyrighted sound recordings that enabled their creation; yet Suno sought no permission from and gives no credit or compensation to the human artists or other rightsholders whose works fueled their creation”.

What are your thoughts on the RIAA suing two AI companies for their contributions to the “BBL Drizzy” sample? How do you see this lawsuit playing out and why? Do you think if these entities are sued, it could deter further developments? Was this “BBL Drizzy” challenge a top five moment in the Drake versus Kendrick battle? We would like to hear what you have to say, so leave your thoughts in the comments. Additionally, always keep it locked in with HNHH for all of the latest news surrounding this lawsuit. Finally, stay with us for everything else going on in the music world.

[Via] [Via]

The post AI Companies Tied To Creation Of “BBL Drizzy” Are Being Sued By The RIAA appeared first on HotNewHipHop.

Sheryl Crow Disgusted With Drake For Using AI On “Taylor Made Freestyle”

June 25, 2024 by newhiphopnews

The use of AI technology in music, but especially in general, has a lot of people upset and frightened. However, it does not seem like it is going to stop evolving any time soon. Like all things in life, it has its benefits and drawbacks. Only time will tell if people stick to being against it or come around to the idea. But right now, it seems like the general consensus is that its ruining authenticity. That is certainly a valid argument, and it is one that GRAMMY award-winning singer Sheryl Crow is using against Drake. According to AllHipHop, the “Soak Up The Sun” songwriter vented her frustrations with BBC in a feature about this, but also her personal experience with AI, and thoughts on it overall.

Part of the reason this was a topic in the first place was because the longtime vocalist talks about the controversial tech on her new album, Evolution. Specifically, this message is spread on the title track as it refers to a time when a producer replaced her vocals with AI John Mayer. With the Drake and Kendrick Lamar beef being so public, artists even like Sheryl Crow know generally what has been going on in hip-hop. As we said, the Missouri native was more than displeased with the Canadian superstar, labeling his action as “hateful”, and “antithetical to the life force that exists in all of us”.

Sheryl Crow & AI Are Like Oil & Water

Crow continued, “You cannot bring people back from the dead and believe that they would stand for that. I’m sure Drake thought, ‘Yeah, I shouldn’t do it, but I’ll say sorry later.’ But it’s already done, and people will find it even if he takes it down”. “Taylor Made Freestyle” was eventually removed due to a cease-and-desist from legal representatives for Tupac’s estate. But she does have a strong point, as what goes on the internet, stays there forever. That is partially why Crow is nervous for society, but also for her kids. She told her teenagers, “‘You’re growing up with this thing and it doesn’t seem dangerous to you because you’re a frog in a pot of water. But the water is only just starting to boil, and you won’t realize it’s getting hotter until we’re all floating on the top’”.

What are your thoughts on Sheryl Crow putting Drake on blast for using an AI Tupac feature? Are her criticisms valid, why or why not? Do you agree or disagree with her thoughts on the technology in general? Is Drake at the lowest point in his career right now? We would like to hear what you have to say, so leave your thoughts in the comments. Additionally, always keep it locked in with HNHH for all of the latest news surrounding Drake. Finally, stay with us for everything else going on in the music world.

[Via] [Via]

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The Weeknd Interviews Himself… His 10-Year-Old Self… An AI Version Of His 10-Year Old Self

June 13, 2024 by newhiphopnews

Traditionally, music interviews are between a journalist and an artist. The medium can sometimes break free of that format, though. Sometimes, artists interview each other. Then there’s the latest one from The Weeknd. In it, he interviews himself, except it’s himself at 10 years old, except it’s himself at 10 years old as portrayed via AI.

This was arranged by SSENSE, who used ChatGPT to create a “realistic” chatbot version of young Abel Tesfaye, with which present-day Tesfaye had an era-spanning conversation.

The chat starts with talk about TV shows. The Weeknd notes he’s been watching King Of The Hill and AI Tesfaye responds, “King of the Hill sounds like a big adventure! I imagine sitting on a hill being the king of everything I see!” It then asks real The Weeknd if they can make a cartoon of their own together someday.

From there, the two talk about God, imagination, their mother, and more. Depending on your views on AI, the whole thing is either sweet or perhaps a little bit unsettling and strange. At the very least, it’s an interesting exercise in creative use of technology, more of a creative writing endeavor than a journalistic interview.

Check it out here.

Elon Musk Is Ready To Ban Apple Products From His Companies

June 11, 2024 by newhiphopnews

Elon Musk says he plans to ban all Apple products from his companies after they announced a partnership with OpenAI at WWDC 2024, earlier this week. When CEO Tim Cook shared the news on X (formerly Twitter), Musk weighed in with serious criticism of the move.

“Don’t want it. Either stop this creepy spyware or all Apple devices will be banned from the premises of my companies,” he wrote at first. He added: “If Apple integrates OpenAI at the OS level, then Apple devices will be banned at my companies. That is an unacceptable security violation. And visitors will have to check their Apple devices at the door, where they will be stored in a Faraday cage.” From there, he ranted: “It’s patently absurd that Apple isn’t smart enough to make their own AI, yet is somehow capable of ensuring that OpenAI will protect your security & privacy! Apple has no clue what’s actually going on once they hand your data over to OpenAI. They’re selling you down the river.”

Elon Musk Speaks At Milken Institute’s Global Conference

BEVERLY HILLS, CALIFORNIA – MAY 6: Elon Musk, co-founder of Tesla and SpaceX and owner of X Holdings Corp., speaks at the Milken Institute’s Global Conference at the Beverly Hilton Hotel,on May 6, 2024 in Beverly Hills, California. The 27th annual global conference explores various topics, from the rise of generative AI to electric vehicle trends and features participants, soccer star David Beckham and actor Ashton Kutcher. (Photo by Apu Gomes/Getty Images)

OpenAI is best known for creating ChatGPT. “Suppose you want to create a custom bedtime story for your six-year-old who loves butterflies and solving riddles,” Apple software chief Craig Federighi said during the conference. “Put in your initial idea, and send to ChatGPT.” OpenAI has also already landed a multibillion-dollar deal with Microsoft.

Elon Musk Calls Out Apple For AI Implementation

Don’t want it.

Either stop this creepy spyware or all Apple devices will be banned from the premises of my companies.

— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) June 10, 2024

And visitors will have to check their Apple devices at the door, where they will be stored in a Faraday cage

— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) June 10, 2024

It’s patently absurd that Apple isn’t smart enough to make their own AI, yet is somehow capable of ensuring that OpenAI will protect your security & privacy!

Apple has no clue what’s actually going on once they hand your data over to OpenAI. They’re selling you down the river.

— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) June 10, 2024

Check out Musk’s posts about artificial intelligence and Apple above. Be on the lookout for further updates on Elon Musk on HotNewHipHop.

[Via]

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Joe Budden Appears To Diss Rory & Mal In Freestyle Over Drake’s “Family Matters,” But He’s Since Labeled It A.I.

May 22, 2024 by newhiphopnews

Joe Budden seemingly dissed his former podcast co-hosts, Rory and Mal, in a freestyle over Drake’s “Family Matters,” earlier this week. “It’s clear to me you can’t see the books/ It’s clear to me you think I’m a crook,” Budden raps at one point, addressing the rumors of the financial issues that led to their separation. When Elliott Wilson shared the freestyle on social media, Budden replied with, “AI smh.”

Fans shared plenty of laughs in response to the post. “They tried to AI the cohosts laughs too… nobody can AI Ish laugh fam,” one user wrote. “It’s clear you didn’t speak to your lawyer is hilarious! Please,” another added. Others flooded the section with laughing emojis.

Joe Budden, Rory, & Mal, Speak In New York City

NEW YORK, NY – JULY 21: (L-R) Mal, Joe Budden, and Rory attend the Joe Budden Podcast Live at Highline Ballroom on July 21, 2017, in New York City. (Photo by Johnny Nunez/WireImage)

Rory and Mal previously labeled Budden a “thief” and a “cat burglar” over their allegations about a financial disagreement. They also criticized him after Complex named him the number one voice in Hip Hop media in a list, last year. Budden seemingly responded during an episode of his podcast. “Instead of critiquing people’s placement on this list, we need more critiquing on why you’re not on it,” he said at the time. “To everyone not on it, shut the f*ck up. There’s some steps that you n****s have missed.” Check out Budden’s A.I.-created freestyle below.

Joe Budden Clears The Air Under Elliott Wilson’s Post

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Elliott Wilson (@elliottwilson)

In other Budden news, he used Wednesday’s episode of his podcast to finally speak on the allegations against Diddy and the latest video of him appearing to assault Cassie at a hotel in 2016. In doing so, Budden labeled the Bad Boy mogul a “lying sack of sh*t.” Be on the lookout for further updates on Joe Budden on HotNewHipHop.

[Via]

The post Joe Budden Appears To Diss Rory & Mal In Freestyle Over Drake’s “Family Matters,” But He’s Since Labeled It A.I. appeared first on HotNewHipHop.