“Embracing Humanity in Music: Teddy Swims Discusses AI at SXSW Sydney”

## The Future of Music and Human Emotion

As AI continues to evolve in the music industry, fans of Teddy Swims can find solace in his belief that no machine can imitate the unique messiness and vulnerability that characterize authentic music. During his keynote address at SXSW Sydney, Swims emphasized the enduring significance of genuine musical expression and detailed how artists can utilize AI for enhanced creativity.

### Reimagining Old Music

Swims, whose real name is Jaten Dimsdale, shared his experiences with AI during the event. He has used technology to breathe new life into older songs that he cherished. “I’ve started going back to some older songs from four or five years ago that I always felt had potential. With AI, I can reimagine them and discover the magic they contain,” he told the audience.

Additionally, AI assists him in exploring how different melodies would play out across various genres. By inputting some lyrics into an AI tool, he can quickly visualize how a song might sound in styles ranging from country to rock or pop.

### Enhancing Productivity

Using AI not only streamlines the creative process but also saves time. “Rather than going through multiple iterations over months, I can get a fully fleshed-out idea in seconds,” he explained. In cases where minor adjustments to vocals are necessary, such as changing a word in a track, AI proves invaluable.

For instance, if his producer needs a quick fix while he’s in Sydney and the producer is in LA, using AI to replace a word allows for a seamless process without the need for studio time. “Little changes like that showcase how beneficial AI can be in music production,” Swims remarked.

### The Human Element Remains

Despite his enthusiasm for AI’s role in the industry, Swims insists that the essence of creativity relies on human emotion—something machines cannot replicate. He believes future artists will learn the nuances of prompting AI to achieve their desired outcomes.

“I think mastering the art of prompting will become essential, allowing for more creativity,” he added. “If used the right way, AI can be a beautiful tool that complements human artistry.”

### Protecting Artist Rights

Addressing the critical topic of artist rights, Swims’ manager, Luke Conway, highlighted the necessity for fair compensation. “Streaming platforms need a way to differentiate between real artists and AI-generated content, ensuring that musicians are properly rewarded for their craft,” he stated.

Conway emphasized that while AI can serve as a helpful instrument, it must be utilized ethically and responsibly.

In a world where creativity and technology intersect, what are your thoughts on the role of AI in music?