Embracing the Future While Preserving Our Legacy: A New Year’s Call to Action for Musicians

January 1, 2025

John Acosta  -  AFM IEB Member and President, Local 47 (Los Angeles, CA)

As we begin the new year, we are reminded that music has always been both a reflection of our times and a force that shapes them. From symphonies that capture the human spirit to the driving beats of modern pop, music is a timeless language that connects us all. Yet, as we move forward into 2025, we face unprecedented challenges and opportunities brought forth by technology, particularly artificial intelligence (AI), which is rapidly redefining the landscape of our industry.

AI has infiltrated nearly every aspect of the music industry, from composition and performance to licensing and distribution. Algorithms can now generate melodies, mimic human voices, and analyze listener preferences with astonishing accuracy. While these advancements may seem exciting, they also raise significant questions about the value of human artistry and the sustainability of our profession.

For many of us, these changes feel like an existential threat. Will AI replace musicians in recording studios? Will orchestras and live performances give way to holograms and synthesized sounds? Will our creative contributions be devalued in a world where machines can replicate what we do? These are not hypothetical scenarios—they are real challenges that we must address head-on.

In times of uncertainty, unity is our greatest strength. Our musicians union has always been a beacon of solidarity, as we advocate for fair wages, safe working conditions, and the protection of our rights as creators. As we navigate the complexities of AI and other disruptive technologies, our union remains your steadfast ally.

As a union, we must continue to:

•Negotiate fair use policies for AI-generated content: Ensure that musicians are credited and compensated when their work or likeness is used as the basis for AI creations.

•Advocate for live performance opportunities: Highlight the irreplaceable value of human connection and emotion in live music—something no machine can replicate.

•Educate and empower our members: Offer workshops, panels, and resources to help you understand and leverage new technologies, without compromising your craft or livelihood.

While the challenges are real, so too are the opportunities. Technology, if harnessed correctly, can enhance our creativity, rather than diminish it. AI can be a tool to experiment with new sounds, automate tedious tasks, and reach broader audiences. But it is our creativity, passion, and humanity that will always continue to define the soul of music.

As we enter this new year, I urge you to stay strong, stay with the union, and stay inspired. Together, we can shape a future where technology complements, rather than competes with, our artistry. Together, we can ensure that music remains a vibrant, vital force in our lives, in our communities, and in the world.

Here’s to a year of resilience, creativity, and solidarity. Together, we will face the music and shape its future. Happy new year!

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