Music is Dead? Long live music! A talk with Robert Thomas

This AMA has now passed and the recording is not available

If AI services like Suno and Udio have transformed recorded music making as we know it so that anyone can prompt music with no skills needed, where do we go from here?

What is the role of artists in a world of AI and machine learning?

These are the provocative and relevant questions that composer and programmer Robert M Thomas will explore in this Ask Me Anything session.

Over the last 20 years, Robert has explored many possibilities beyond recorded music in numerous collaborations including Brian Eno, Massive Attack, Hans Zimmer and Imogen Heap. 

Robert believes music is at a critical moment where its very value is being called into question. As AI music generates millions of hours of music through simple prompts, recorded music is potentially becoming even more devalued. But against this bleak backdrop is it possible that machine learning is shining a new light on what it means to be an artist in the 21st century? Is it forcing us into an artistic existential crisis from which we must ask ourselves difficult questions, and reevaluate the future for music and art?

What are the opportunities which artists can explore using concepts that are outside the realms of conventional music creation, distribution and listening processes? How can artists form meaningful and unique relationships with their listeners through released music?

Join us to ask Robert questions, as well as have your say on this vital subject.

The session lasts for one hour, but you are welcome to stay longer if the discussion continues further.