Universal Music Group (UMG) has partnered with AI startup SoundLabs to develop “ultra-high fidelity vocal models” of its artists, allowing them to use AI-generated versions of their own voices while retaining full ownership and creative control.

Overview of the Partnership

UMG, the world’s largest music company, has teamed up with SoundLabs to offer its artists access to advanced AI technology through a new tool called MicDrop.

This AI vocal plug-in will enable artists to create high-fidelity vocal models using their own voice data. The partnership ensures that artists retain ownership of these AI-generated vocals and have full artistic approval over their use.

Key Features of MicDrop

MicDrop is set to launch this summer and will be compatible with all major digital audio workstations (DAWs). The tool offers a range of innovative features, including:

• Voice-to-voice transformation: Artists can modify their voices to sound like other voices.
• Voice-to-instrument conversion: Artists can create instrument sounds using their voices.
• Speech-to-singing: Converts spoken words into singing.
• Language transposition: Allows artists to sing in languages they do not speak.

Ethical Considerations and Artist Control

The use of AI in music has been a contentious topic, but UMG and SoundLabs emphasize ethical practices. 

“Artificial intelligence, when used ethically and trained consensually, has the Promethean ability to unlock unimaginable new creative insights,” said BT, founder of SoundLabs. 

The partnership aligns with UMG’s commitment to responsible AI use, as outlined in their “Principles for Music Creation with AI,” which advocate for transparency and artist control.

Industry Reactions and Implications

The music industry is rapidly embracing AI, with nearly two-thirds of young creatives incorporating it into their music-making process.However, the ethical implications remain a hot topic.

Chris Horton, SVP of Strategic Technology at UMG, stated, “UMG strives to keep artists at the center of our AI strategy, so that technology is used in service of artistry, rather than the other way around.” 

This sentiment is echoed by many in the industry who see AI as a tool to enhance, not replace, human creativity.

Case Studies and Examples

One notable example of AI’s potential in music is Randy Travis’s recent single “Where That Came From,” which used AI to recreate his voice after he lost his singing ability due to a stroke.

This demonstrates how AI can offer new opportunities for artists facing physical limitations.

Why This Matters

For music producers, this partnership between UMG and SoundLabs represents a significant shift in how music can be created and produced.

The ability to use AI-generated vocal models opens up new creative possibilities, from experimenting with different vocal styles to overcoming language barriers.

This technology could democratize music production, making it more accessible and innovative, while ensuring that artists maintain control over their creative output.

For more information on the ethical use of AI in music, visit the Principles for Music Creation with AI and explore the potential of AI tools like MicDrop.

By embracing AI responsibly, the music industry can push the boundaries of creativity while respecting the integrity and rights of artists.