AR Rahman, the musical maestro, has recently stirred discussions by employing Artificial Intelligence (AI) to recreate the voices of late singers Bamba Bakya and Shahul Hameed for the enchanting song, “Thimiri Yezhuda,” featured in Rajinikanth’s Lal Salaam. This innovative approach has sparked a wave of opinions among fans, but Rahman is quick to clarify, emphasizing that the families of the revered singers were duly consulted, and fair remuneration was provided.
Rahman’s Technological Marvel
AR Rahman, taking to his X account, shared Sony Music South’s post, shedding light on the utilization of an AI tool to replicate the voices of the late singers. In his caption, Rahman stated, “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” along with hashtags like respect and nostalgia.
Permission and Compensation
The emphasis on securing permission from the families highlights Rahman’s commitment to ethical AI use. The families of Bamba Bakya and Shahul Hameed were not only informed but were also adequately compensated for the utilization of their departed loved ones’ voice algorithms.
Remembering the Artists
Bamba Bakya, who collaborated with Rahman on numerous occasions, tragically passed away in 2022 due to a cardiac arrest. Shahul Hameed met a similar fate in 1997, losing his life in a car crash near Chennai. Rahman’s effort to immortalize their voices in Lal Salaam demonstrates a deep sense of respect and nostalgia for these departed talents.
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…#respect #nostalgia 🙏 https://t.co/X2TpRoGT3l
— A.R.Rahman (@arrahman) January 29, 2024
Diverse Fan Reactions
Reactions from fans have been diverse, reflecting the polarizing nature of this technological feat. Supporters commend Rahman for the nostalgic experience of hearing voices from the past, expressing anticipation for similar renditions of other legendary singers. However, not all responses have been positive.
Ethical Concerns
Critics argue that using someone’s voice posthumously without explicit consent raises ethical questions about ownership and consent. Concerns are voiced about the potential suppression of opportunities for emerging talents in the music industry.
Rahman’s Response to Critics
In the face of criticism, Rahman’s supporters praise him as a trailblazer, with some stating that only he could pull off such a feat. However, dissenters stress the importance of considering the broader implications on the industry, cautioning against setting a precedent that might pave the way for AI dominance.
Lal Salaam: Beyond the Controversy
Directed by Aishwarya Rajinikanth, Lal Salaam is a sports action drama scheduled to hit theaters on February 9. The controversy surrounding the use of AI in its soundtrack adds an intriguing layer to the film’s anticipation.
In conclusion, AR Rahman’s use of AI to recreate the voices of Bamba Bakya and Shahul Hameed has sparked a multifaceted conversation within the musical and technological spheres. While some celebrate the innovation, others raise valid concerns about ethics and the potential impact on the future of music. As Lal Salaam awaits its theatrical release, the debate over the intersection of technology and artistic expression continues to captivate audiences.
