Academy Award-winning composer A.R. Rahman used AI to resurrect the voices of late singers Bamba Bakya and Shahul Hameed for the song "Thimiri Yezhuda" in Rajinikanth's film, "Lal Salaam." Internet is divided on Rahman's move. Some netizens commend Rahman's innovative approach, embracing technological advancements. Others find it disrespectful and morally unethical. Rahman clarified that he obtained permission from the families and compensated them for using their voice algorithms. His responsible use of technology aligns with the belief that it can serve as a potent tool for artistic progress without compromising ethics. The case prompts discussions on posthumous contributions and the evolving landscape of creative expression.
Academy Award-winning composer
A.R. Rahman
used artificial intelligence to resurrect the voices of the late singers Bamba Bakya and Shahul Hameed for the song "Thimiri Yezhuda" in Rajinikanth's forthcoming film, "Lal Salaam."
Internet is divided on A.R. Rahman’s this move
This move has ignited a division across the internet, with numerous netizens commending Rahman's innovative approach, asserting that musicians should embrace technological advancements.
On the social media platform X, one user expressed, "Respecting the creators and compensating them/their family for their contributions is key. When technology is harnessed responsibly, it becomes a powerful tool for progress."
On the other hand, there is a faction that deems this attempt as "disrespectful" and "morally unethical." A user wrote, "Not just disrespectful, this also sets a wrong precedent on ethical grounds."
Another user expressed similar sentiments, stating, "Asking consent from their family and remunerating them cannot work."
In response to the polarising reactions, Rahman took to social media to provide a clarification, seeking to address the concerns raised by the public. The distinguished composer affirmed, "We took permission from their families and sent deserving remuneration for using their voice algorithms. Technology is not a threat and a nuisance if we use it right."
This statement underscores Rahman's commitment to ethical practices in harnessing technology, emphasizing the importance of obtaining consent from the families of the deceased singers and duly compensating them for utilizing their voice algorithms. Rahman's approach aligns with the belief that technology, when wielded responsibly, can serve as a potent tool for artistic progress without compromising ethical standards.
The convergence of technology and artistry, as exemplified by Rahman's use of
AI in music
creation, prompts a broader discourse on the ethical considerations surrounding posthumous contributions in the digital age and the evolving landscape of creative expression.