AI is covering untalented musicians — Blak Jak
Musician Blak Jak says AI is covering untalented musicians
I may be taking over the studio, but Blak Jak is waiting for the moment it takes the stage.
The veteran musician, also known as Che Kalonda, says artificial intelligence may be giving some artists a voice, but the real test will come when the music stops hiding behind technology and the spotlight hits the stage.
During a Malawi24 dialogue, Blak Jak argued that AI is not replacing real musicians, but rather “covering” artists he considers untalented, due to the technology’s limited and repetitive vocal ranges.
He further maintained that live stage performances will reveal AI-dependent artists as “fake.”
In a separate interview, fellow artist Saint (The Realest) said, “There’s nothing we can do about it. Yabwera basi [it has come, that’s it].”
He added, “Real music is heard and appreciated; AI music is not real. It will come and go. So don’t fight with AI, just let it be.”
Taking a more pragmatic approach, music enthusiast Clarxy Nditah emphasized collaboration, stating that artists must remain the “creators,” while using AI strictly as an “assistant.”
This viewpoint differs from that of American producer Dr. Dre, who recently told The New York Times that he embraces AI for beat-making, describing it as a continuation of historical innovations in music production.
Regardless of how artists choose to use the technology, the Copyright Society of Malawi (COSOMA) has recently clarified that it will not register or pay royalties for fully AI-generated works.
What are your views on AI in music? Share your thoughts in the comments section.
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