“Am i battling ghosts, or AI?” Kendrick Lamar Euphoria

Kendrick’s line in Euphoria wasn’t just rhetorical but reflected a new reality of music. AI-generated voices were weaponized against him during a high-profile battle of rap, marking a moment when artificial intelligence had a direct impact on shaping hip-hop’s biggest feud. Drake’s Taylor Made Freestyle diss track, which used AI-generated voices from rap legends Tupac and Snoop Dogg as taunts to Lamar, brought the controversy around AI deepfakes in music creation to a head. After Shakur’s estate filed a lawsuit, the song was quickly removed from streaming platforms. However, it sparked a debate on AI’s use in music.

Lamar responded. Not Like Us was his final track, and it not only dominated cultural conversations but also became the most-awarded rap song ever in GRAMMY’s history. He won five awards, including Record of the Year and Song. AI was not directly involved in its creation, but its appearance in the feud that led up to the battle highlighted a significant change in the way the music industry and the Recording Academy view artificial intelligence.

The Recording Academy’s Position on AI in Music

The Recording Academy is taking a measured and careful stance as AI continues to become more prevalent in music composition and production. The Recording Academy’s approach is to balance the protection of artists while remaining open to innovation. Some of the key considerations are:

• Protecting creators: The Academy has stressed that AI shouldn’t devalue human artistry. They support musicians, producers, and songwriters in maintaining control over their likeness and creative output.
• Legal and Copyright Considerations– The Recording Academy is in talks with the U.S. Copyright Office to ensure that copyright laws are updated to keep up with AI development and prevent the exploitation of artists.
• Education and Ethical AI Use– The Academy works to educate artists about AI so that they are prepared to navigate the new landscape.
• Encourage Innovation– While there are still concerns about AI replacing creativity in humans, the Academy recognizes that AI is a valuable tool when used responsibly.

AI in production vs. AI composition: Industry perspectives

AI’s impact on the music industry varies depending on its application. AI-powered tools are widely used for mixing and mastering, and many artists and producers see them as time-saving resources. According to surveys, 30.6% of artists have used AI in mastering, and 40% of them are positive about its potential. AI’s use in music composition and generation is more controversial. Some see AI as an aid to creativity, while others are concerned about its impact on artistic intent and originality.

Several prominent industry figures have expressed different opinions on AI in music. Timbaland, a GRAMMY award-winning producer, is actively exploring AI music tools. He has even collaborated with AI startup Suno. Metro Boomin, an acclaimed producer, also used AI to create BBL Drizzy, BPM 150, a track that made fun of rapper Drake. The track went viral. Kanye West, a well-known producer, has admitted that he uses AI in his music. He tweeted about wanting to “AI’ The Weeknd’s drums at GRAMMY Night. Ricky Kej, Soundverse advisor and four-time GRAMMY nominee, has praised AI’s ability to democratize the music-making process, allowing artists to push boundaries in new ways.

The Future of the GRAMMYs and AI

The Recording Academy’s rules have already been updated to reflect the growing role of AI in music. AI-generated content is not allowed to be the sole creator or major contributor of GRAMMY-winning works. The human musician remains central to the creative process, even though AI can be a useful tool.

AI’s influence in music will continue to grow despite these guidelines. Kendrick Lamar’s Not Like Us may not have relied on AI, but the events leading up to its release—AI-generated diss tracks, the ethics of deepfakes, and the broader industry conversation—highlighted just how deeply AI has embedded itself into modern music culture.

AI, whether it’s for parody, production efficiency, or creative exploration, is no longer an improbable possibility. It’s a force that’s actively shaping how artists create music and audiences interact with it. As the Recording Academy refines its stance on AI, one thing remains certain: AI will have a significant impact on music.

What is the future of AI in music?

The presence of AI in music cannot be denied. AI has become a force that shapes the music industry, whether it enhances the quality of production, promotes creative exploration, or pushes the limits of artistry. The Recording Academy made it clear that AI is not meant to replace human creativity but can be an effective tool when used with care. GRAMMY-nominated and award-winning artists such as Timbaland and Metro Boomin have all embraced AI, proving that artistry and innovation can coexist.

Soundverse’s AI-powered music tools are designed to inspire and enhance your creativity. Soundverse offers a range of AI-powered tools for musicians, producers and creators.

Visit Sound Verse Pricing and find out which tier is best for you. Take the first step towards transforming your music creation. Together, let’s shape the sound of the future.