Swangz Avenue boss concerned over AI's impact on Uganda’s music industry
He remarked, "The AI version of my song boosted its reach, yet I sense an overabundance. It's time for measures to rein it in."
Swangz Avenue boss, Benon Mugumya. File photo
NewVision Reporter
@NewVision
“Artificial Intelligence might either work in favour or against us,” this is one of the statements made by Swangz Avenue boss, Benon Mugumya following the controversial remix of one of Azawi's latest single, Masavu that has thrown Ugandan in a state of confusion.
Against this backdrop, Ice Spice's AI rendition of Drake's "Munch" went viral, surpassing the popularity of the original track, echoing similar occurrences worldwide. Notably, international artists such as Kanye West and Travis Scott have encountered comparable situations. In Uganda, Burna Boy's vocals were utilised for a rendition of the late Kadongo Kamu legend Paul Kafereo's song, while Allien Skin's voice was employed to perform Singer Aaronx's "Njalwala."
Aaronx, one of the latest new kids on block, reflecting on the impact of Allien Skin's AI voice on his song, expressed that while it undoubtedly propelled the track's popularity, he believes there should be legislation addressing AI use.
He remarked, "The AI version of my song boosted its reach, yet I sense an overabundance. It's time for measures to rein it in."
Azawi's latest single, "Masavu," infused with Rumba and Zouk elements, carries a vibe reminiscent of the late singer Mowzay Radio's style.
Coincidentally, shortly after the song's release, an AI-generated version emerged, seemingly a collaboration between the two artists. This occurrence left Ugandans bewildered, speculating that the song could be one of the unreleased hits by the late singer.
"It caught us off guard; we're unprepared to handle it at the moment," remarked Mugumya regarding the unexpected impact of AI. However, he acknowledged that despite the confusion caused by the AI version, it has notably contributed to promoting the song.
The crucial question in this scenario revolves around how to regulate and control the AI movement.
Stay tuned for an in-depth analysis of this issue, exploring potential remedies and strategies for addressing the challenges posed by AI in the music industry.