Everything you need to know:
- Ariana Grande expressed distaste for AI covers using her vocals without allowing, saying they are “terrifying” and hated.
- She’s frustrated by unfinished demos leaking, like “Fantasize” on TikTok, joking threatened legal action.
- While irritating, Ariana constructively drew inspiration from leaked “Fantasize” influences for new album “Eternal Sunshine.”
Ariana Grande is never one to hold back her true feelings, and her recent interview with podcaster Zach Sang gave fans new insights into some of the singer’s strongest opinions.
Two topics really get under Ariana’s skin:
- AI-generated covers of her songs.
- Leaked demos from her studio sessions.
Without her OK, Ariana Grande’s vocals are off-limits for anyone’s reuse
On AI covers, Ariana didn’t mince words. When asked by Zach for her thoughts on artificial intelligence being used to recreate her distinctive vocals on new songs, she bluntly responded:
“What are we doing? What? Why? I hate it. It’s terrifying.”
Ariana Grande
Here’s a video:
While some see potential for AI to assist in the creative process, Ariana views computer-generated versions of her voice without consent as troubling.
Is AI help or horror? Ariana Grande takes a stand
She wasn’t much warmer to the idea of AI helping songwriters craft initial demos replying simply “It’s terrifying.” It’s clear that for Ariana, unauthorized AI recreations of her vocals cross an important line. As the owner of one of pop music’s most iconic voices, she understandably wants full control over how and when her talent is utilized.
The issue of AI covers has been hotly debated since tracks like last year’s “Heart On My Sleeve” went viral for featuring computer-generated vocals resembling Drake and The Weeknd. While the technology continues advancing, many artists share Ariana’s stance that generating new songs impersonating voices without permission is problematic.
Fans looking to hear “AI Ari” covers will have to look elsewhere for now.
From stolen to stellar: How Ariana turned a leak into gold
Ariana was also vocal about her frustration with studio sessions leaking online, especially the Max Martin-produced demo “Fantasize” that spread widely on TikTok. As she explained, the song wasn’t intended for her album – it was actually written for a TV project as “a parody of like a ’90s girl group vibe.”
So she understandably took issue finding it circulating without permission:
“Thank you very much. I’ll see you in jail – literally.”
Ariana Grande
Ariana quipped sarcastically about the leak. She called those responsible “thieves, pirates, crooks [and] illegal,” offering pointedly to “pay you more to get it back.”
Rather than let the leak derail her, Ariana chose to use it constructively. She took inspiration from the ’90s style to inform her new album “Eternal Sunshine,” giving fans “Ariana’s version” of the concept on lead single “yes and?.” The experience was clearly frustrating but also fuel for her creativity.
By speaking candidly about hot-button topics in her interview, Ariana lent valuable perspective on important industry issues. As an artist with one of the most imitated voices, she understands uniquely well the challenges of navigating technology’s growing role in music. Her strong opinions also send a message that copyright and privacy will remain top priorities amongst creators.
Read more: I tested 4 AI text to song generators using the same prompt
Fans can understand Ariana wanting full autonomy over her talents and unfinished work. While innovations like AI will continue sparking complex debates, artists like Ariana ensuring their voices are heard will be indispensable to forging balanced solutions. With her characteristic bluntness and ability to spin negatives into gold, she’s sure to remain an outspoken voice as these discussions evolve.
