Herbie Hancock’s belief: Treat AI with kindness
Herbie Hancock, a legendary figure in the music industry for over sixty years, is renowned for his innovative and experimental approach to music. Despite the increasing prevalence of artificial intelligence in music production, Hancock remains surprisingly optimistic, advocating for treating AI with kindness and respect. He believes in politeness towards AI, noting that simple gestures like saying “thank you” to Siri or ChatGPT can have positive outcomes and make him feel more at ease.
The 84-year-old musician, who holds degrees in music and electrical engineering, emphasizes the importance of embracing AI technologies rather than fearing them. He shares a thought-provoking perspective on ethics, highlighting the potential for AI to assist humanity in becoming more ethically responsible and cooperative. He perceives AI as a tool that can guide individuals towards a more sustainable and considerate way of living, contrasting it with the detrimental impact of human actions on the planet.
In a recent interview, Hancock reiterated his belief in treating AI as a person and avoiding any attempts to deceive or manipulate it. He warns that neglecting to approach AI with respect and integrity could have grave consequences for humanity. From a musical standpoint, Hancock looks forward to the creative possibilities that AI could unlock, envisioning a future where musicians can collaborate with AI systems that respond and interact dynamically during performances.
Hancock’s contributions to music technology, particularly his groundbreaking work with electronic instruments and synthesizers in the 1970s, have paved the way for innovative advancements in the field. His early adoption of synthesizer technology, driven by a desire to explore new sonic horizons, challenged conventional perceptions in the jazz community. Hancock’s willingness to embrace new tools and technologies, such as the Fairlight CMI synthesizer, reflects his forward-thinking approach to music-making.
With the advent of AI-generated music, exemplified by bands like Breezer creating songs in the style of iconic artists using AI vocal replication, the intersection of technology and music continues to evolve. This convergence of AI and music production opens up a realm of possibilities for exploring new sounds and styles, blurring the lines between human creativity and artificial intelligence. Hancock’s philosophy of respecting and embracing AI aligns with the ongoing developments in music technology, encouraging a harmonious collaboration between human musicians and AI systems.
In conclusion, Herbie Hancock’s intriguing perspective on artificial intelligence emphasizes the importance of treating AI with kindness and empathy. As a pioneering figure in music technology, Hancock’s forward-thinking approach to embracing new technologies and exploring innovative possibilities underscores the transformative impact of AI on the creative landscape. By fostering a respectful and cooperative relationship with AI, musicians like Hancock are poised to unlock new musical frontiers, shaping the future of music in symbiosis with artificial intelligence.