The UK music industry is optimistic about 2026, with potential major comebacks from Harry Styles and Oasis, ongoing AI controversies, a shift in the Brit Awards location, and new government measures to protect grassroots venues and regulate ticket resale, all amid a recovering market and emerging UK artists.
The article discusses upcoming music events and releases in 2026, including potential Oasis reunion at Knebworth, new albums from artists like Beyoncé, Harry Styles, and Madonna, the rise of AI in music production, and major tours from BTS, Blackpink, and others, amidst a year of experimental and diverse musical trends.
Guardian readers express mixed opinions on AI in music, emphasizing the importance of human emotion and creativity, concerns over copyright and reliance on technology, and the need for transparency and protections for musicians.
The top country song in the US this week, 'Walk My Walk' by Breaking Rust, is AI-generated, highlighting the growing influence of artificial intelligence in music production. Despite mixed opinions from experts, the song has gained significant popularity, raising questions about the future of human versus machine-created music and emphasizing the importance of human originality in art.
Originally Published 2 months ago — by billboard.com
Xania Monet, an AI-driven artist created by poet Telisha Jones, made history by debuting at No. 30 on the Billboard Adult R&B Airplay chart with her song 'How Was I Supposed to Know?', marking the first AI-based act to earn a spot on a Billboard radio chart, highlighting the evolving role of AI in the music industry.
Auto-Tune, initially an audio processing tool from the 1990s, has become a staple in modern music, influencing artists and production styles. Despite some backlash, it is widely accepted and used as an instrument in its own right. The Vergecast explores Auto-Tune's origins, its impact on music, and its potential parallels with the emerging AI era in music production.
Billie Eilish, R.E.M., Jason Isbell, and over 200 other artists have signed an open letter urging AI developers and digital music services to refrain from using artificial intelligence to infringe upon and devalue the rights of human artists. The letter, organized by the Artist Rights Alliance, emphasizes the need to protect against the predatory use of AI to steal artists' voices and likenesses, violate creators' rights, and disrupt the music ecosystem.
The Rolling Stones have released their latest single, "Sweet Sounds Of Heaven," featuring Lady Gaga and Stevie Wonder. The gospel-infused track is reminiscent of the band's classic hits and showcases Wonder on various instruments while Gaga provides backing vocals. The song is part of their upcoming album, "Hackney Diamonds," which also features Paul McCartney and Elton John. In other news, Keith Richards expressed his thoughts on AI in music, calling it "toy town," and Mick Jagger hinted that the band's back catalog may go to charity instead of his children.