Will.i.am discusses the transformative impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on the creative industries, likening the current era to a new Renaissance. He argues that just as the original Renaissance revolutionized art and creativity, AI is now ushering in an “age of the hyper-creative,” where technology can amplify and expand creative possibilities. However, this rapid innovation also brings significant challenges, particularly around copyright and the use of artists’ work in training AI models.

He addresses recent debates in the UK, where proposed changes to copyright law could allow AI companies to use copyrighted material more freely. Will.i.am acknowledges the concerns of artists like Damon Albarn and Annie Lennox, who protested these changes, emphasizing that artists should have control over how their work is used, whether for commercial licensing or AI training. He suggests that licensing copyrighted music for AI training could be a solution, but warns that the value of creative work must be properly recognized and compensated, as current models like Spotify often undervalue artists’ contributions.

Will.i.am also highlights the broader implications of AI and data practices, noting that the issue extends beyond music to all forms of human work and creativity. He stresses the urgent need for governance and regulation to protect individuals across professions, not just artists. The core problem, he argues, lies in the business models that exploit creative and intellectual labor, rather than in the technology itself.

Looking ahead, he predicts that AI-generated music will become increasingly prevalent, drawing an analogy to organic versus non-organic produce in supermarkets. He suggests that consumers may eventually need to distinguish between “synthetic” and “human-made” music, and that there could be a premium placed on authentic, lived human experiences such as live concerts and performances. Despite the rise of AI bands and virtual artists, he believes there will always be a demand for genuine human connection in art and entertainment.

Ultimately, Will.i.am expresses more concern for professions based on memory and numbers, such as accountants and lawyers, than for creative roles like musicians. He believes that creatives will adapt and thrive, continuing to provide the emotional and soulful experiences that people crave. While AI will disrupt many sectors, he is optimistic about the resilience of artists, predicting that they will continue to create meaningful work and connect with audiences, even as technology reshapes the landscape.