The rise of AI song generators like Suno and Udio is sparking debate about transparency in the music industry. The emergence of a fictitious band called Velvet Sundown, which uses AI-generated music, lyrics, and album art, raises questions about how creators should disclose their use of technology to their audience. As AI becomes increasingly used in music production, some people may be curious to know whether they're listening to 100% human-created content or not. Streaming service Deezer has started flagging AI-generated songs on its platform, using in-house technology to detect subtle patterns found in AI-created audio. Some users can check if a song is human-made or generated by AI using third-party services like IRCAM Amplify, which can provide probabilities of 81.8% to 98%. However, experts warn that there's no foolproof way to determine the authenticity of content as AI technology improves rapidly, making it increasingly challenging to distinguish between real and synthetic music. The emergence of Velvet Sundown, a rock group that utilizes AI-generated music, lyrics, and album art, has sparked controversy over the authenticity of its creative process. Critics argue that the band's reliance on technology raises questions about transparency with their audience, who may be misled into believing that human artists are behind the music. This debate is particularly relevant in the context of the music industry, where the line between human creativity and AI-generated content is becoming increasingly blurred.
Aya Takano's Ethereal Visions Expand Human Perspective
7.31.25
Aya Takano, a rising star in the global contemporary art scene, has emerged with ethereal visions that blend cheerful beauty and symbolism with a spiritual undercurrent. Her work offers a poetic counterpoint to the dominant anthropocentric worldview, hinting at an expanded awareness of humanity's place in the world through her spellbinding tableaux.
Evanston's First Busker Fest Takes Central Street by Storm
7.31.25
Evanston is launching its first-ever Busker Fest on Central Street in September, featuring over 25 performers showcasing a range of talents. The event aims to bring "the weird and the wacky" to the street, with applications now being accepted from all types of performers.
Nusantara Congress Showcases Indonesian Culture and Innovation
7.31.25
The Nusantara Capital Authority is hosting a congress in North Penajam Paser, East Kalimantan, to showcase Indonesia's cultural richness and innovation. The event features a culture exhibition with local culinary products, MSMEs' superior products, and a photo exhibition on Indonesia's fight for independence. A fashion show and exhibition, "Eco Fashion Nusantara," will also be held, highlighting sustainable creations by Indonesian designers. Additionally, the Nusantara Sumpit Festival showcases Kalimantan's local traditions through cultural attractions and competitions. The congress aims to support the development of the new capital and foster collaboration between the diaspora and Indonesia in various fields, with a focus on creating an inclusive and sustainable global city for all.
Owensboro Music Census Extended to August 8th Deadline
7.31.25
The Greater Owensboro Music Census has been extended to August 8, 2024, allowing more people in the local music ecosystem to participate. The census, led by the Greater Owensboro Music Commission and supported by Sound Music Cities, aims to gather detailed data on the region's music scene to inform future planning and decision-making. Don Pitts, founder of Sound Music Cities, encourages everyone involved in music, regardless of their level of involvement or income, to take the anonymous survey available at https://www.greaterowensboromusic.org.
pgLang Launches Project 3 Agency with Frosty Acquisition
7.31.25
pgLang's Project 3 will expand creative resources for businesses under its umbrella. The first offshoot, Project 3 Agency, is a full-service agency providing creative direction, content creation, production services, and brand design and strategy. pgLang acquired Frosty, an international creative studio with 30 members founded by Greg Stogdon and J.D., to bring Project 3 Agency to life.
Destination Toronto and Atlas Obscura have collaborated with Shadrach Kabango (Shad) and Danny Shaddick to create "Moving Monuments", a unique robotic percussion tower that showcases the city's diverse creative spirit. The piece, built with sustainability in mind, features repurposed instruments and salvaged materials from the Toronto Transit Commission, and incorporates field recordings of Toronto's environments. A one-day-only event will take place at Gansevoort Plaza in New York City on September 6, 2025, where audiences can experience live performances by Shad and see the sculpture for the first time.
Shi Qichao's Carrot Instrument Sparks Artistic Revolution
7.31.25
Shi Qichao is transforming everyday objects into functional instruments in his Dongying, Shandong Province studio. He began by hollowing out a carrot, which produced an unexpectedly beautiful sound, sparking his experimentation with other unconventional materials like construction materials. His creations have gained attention on social media for blending art and sustainability, challenging traditional notions of musical craftsmanship.
Sydney Theatre Company's Kinky Dinner Party Debacle
7.31.25
The Sydney Morning Herald's article discusses the final performance of a theatre company, mentioning their latest show as a "kinky dinner party". The exact name of the company is not provided in the excerpt, but it appears to be a theatrical production that combines elements of food and intimacy.