Is AI the future of Ghost Writing?

The future of ghost writing is an exciting topic to explore, especially with the advancements in Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology. Ghost writing is a common practice in the music industry, where a professional writer is hired to create lyrics or melodies for a musician or band. The use of AI as a ghost writer in the music industry has the potential to revolutionize the way songs are created, but it also raises a number of ethical and practical concerns.

One of the biggest pros of using AI as a ghost writer is its ability to generate an endless number of unique and diverse ideas. With AI, a musician can input certain parameters, such as a desired genre or theme, and the AI will generate a song that meets those criteria. This can save a significant amount of time and effort for musicians who may struggle with writer's block or have difficulty coming up with new ideas.

Another pro of AI ghost writing is that it can help to break down barriers in the music industry. By using AI, musicians from all over the world can collaborate and create music together, regardless of language or cultural barriers. This can lead to a more diverse and inclusive music scene.

However, there are also some cons to consider when it comes to AI ghost writing in the music industry. One of the biggest concerns is the impact it may have on the creativity and originality of music. With AI generating songs, the risk of homogeneity and lack of individuality in the music industry increases.

Another concern is the ethical implications of using AI as a ghost writer. Musicians and bands are often known for their unique style and voice, and using AI to write their songs could be seen as dishonest or lacking authenticity.

In conclusion, while the use of AI as a ghost writer in the music industry has its pros and cons, it is important to consider the ethical and practical implications of using AI in this way. As the technology continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how the music industry adapts and incorporates AI into the creative process.

Primavera 2016

Yesterday, the IMEXSA delegation and I arrived in Spain Barcelona from South Africa. All in all I think it was something like an 18 hour flight including connections. Side note - Stopping in Dubai is always fascinating, I should visit it sometime. 

Spain is a really beautiful looking place. From their buildings and architecture to the people and culture. It really does have a different energy about it. The fellas are nonchalant and the ladies all walk with confidence.  

Today was the Kick-Off of the Primavera Pro day conference, and it has been fun to take in new sights and sounds. I really do plan to capture it in the new music I am working on. So over the next while I'll be posting whatever I hear, see or smell... On the blog. 

So forgive me for being random but I have been feeling in the mood to experiment more with this wonderful blog space. Maybe we will learn something or maybe we won't but I would love to take you along for the ride:) 

Feel free to comment, share or like when you read something of interest here. I would love to hear from you.  

Sshh! It's a surprise

As the popular Bob Dylan song goes; The times they are a-changin'...

As the year draws to a close, it seems we all feel compelled at this time to feel some nostalgia and think back on the ups and downs of the year. 

I usually prefer looking forward and thinking about what the future holds. But it would be a missed chance not to think of all that 2014 has brought.

Even in our small little town of East London there have been some small,  yet significant changes that have taken place. 

For example, I recently heard the news of Numbers closing its doors - Numbers has been a popular night club that has been serving the city for decades. Growing up as a kid it was often where the "Cool kids" would go and hang out. Even to its very end, it was still able to attract some of the most popular local Dj's and artists in South Africa.

Sadly, it will be an end of an era. 

Another era that draws to a close in 2014 is that of VideoLand. The 'For Sale' sign outside its doors sealed its fate. A once popular video store that you could get nearly any DVD you were looking for, even the very niche movies and series has ended up closing its doors in 2014. VideoLand shutting down is really a sign of the times with Internet downloads and alternative forms of entertainment a common place. 

To add to this interesting conundrum of a lack of good quality entertainment in our city, Ster-Kinekor cinema was also shut down at Vincent park shopping center. Leaving Hemingways as the only place to catch the latest movies on the big screen. 

This really got me thinking: 

What is there for people to do in this town?

What can young people do for fun?

With these questions in mind, 5 months ago my team and I began working on a project to help bring some fun and excitement back into our little city. 

Our planning and preparations have paid off!

And 2015 looks set to start with a bang! And I would really like to share those moments of fun and excitement with you. 

So in just a few hours I will be happy to make the announcement about this project on my next blog post.  

We've kept this a fairly guarded secret project but now it's time to let the cat out the bag:)

WHAT MAKES AN MC GREAT?

I recently had a great conversation with a young up and coming emcee. While talking about our latest projects and having a brief listening session I pointed out some things I noticed in his rhyme schematics, delivery and flow that I have always consciously or subconsciously analyzed in the rappers I have liked or disliked. 

Which got me thinking. Why do we like certain emcees more than others? What makes one rap verse better than another? And what makes an emcee great?

I believe there are 5 things that make an emcee stand out and set them a part from the rest of the crowd.

1. Their ability to tell stories 

Usually the story is their own but even when told through the eyes of someone else they have an ability to paint vivid pictures of details and emotions that translate and ring true. This is something I believe Lecrae is doing so well at right now. Christian rappers have often been dull. Preaching at you instead of to you. In essence, Bible-Bashing. In my eyes what Lecrae has done is elevate Christian hip hop by telling you his story. And his story is an interesting one. Most people have interesting stories but how you tell them makes a huge difference.

If you think you don't have an interesting story then learn to tell other peoples stories.  

2. Their ability to make it rhyme 

It's one thing to be able to tell a story. It's another thing to make that story rhyme. Rhyme has that sticky ability to make something new sound true and stick to you like glue. That's why we Love Dr. Seuss.

Legend has it, that when rapper Rakim use to write his rhymes he would draw a line down the middle of the page. And when he got to the line he would try to make the words rhyme. This helped him perfect his internal rhyme style that made him famous. And also added a new flavour to Hip Hop.

3. Their dedication to the craft

Continuously practicing what they do makes them formidable even on their worst days.

When Tupac was in the zone he would write 3 songs a day. Even writing while he was on the toilet. Jay Z use to read a rhyming dictionary every night. 

4. Their desire to connect

Most have a strong desire to connect with their audience which make them really good at breaking down barriers to your heart and mind. Making you feel a personal connection, even though you may have never met them in real life. 

I have never met Eminem, but through his music I know that his daughter (who he loves dearly) her name is Hailie, His Ex-wife's name is Kim and they have a love/hate relationship. He has battled drug addiction and can be painfully insecure. So basically, he is a human being trying to make the most out of life and therefore we can connect with his tragedies and triumphs.  

5. Their boldness to constantly ship 

"Great artists ship." it may not be perfect but at least it was put out there for the world to see. Instead of fading into obscurity.

Question: Who are some of your favourite Emcees? Leave a comment in the section below

BK_RED DRESS [New Release]

RED DRESS by BK

SA INDIE WEEK

This week marks the start of the SA Indies Music Week Festival.  With yours truly - Eman & BK performing on Thursday the 24th April 2014. This is a great opportunity for local independent artists to network, make friends and share ideas with like minded people. 

If you are looking to advance your music career or just want to be entertained by some good local talent, pop by and say hi!

I look forward to seeing you there:) 

To book your tickets click here

HELLO SWEET WORLD - GANGS OF BALLET (Video)

Another set of Amazing South African Artists you should know about. I met the lead singer a while back when he lead worship at our church. I was impressed then and I'm still impressed now. 

Congratulations on your SAMA nominations. Bring it home boys!

The SA Music Revolution has begun!