In 2024, the film Lal Salaam, featuring the legendary Rajinikanth, sparked significant conversation due to its song Thimiri Yezhuda. The dialogue was largely focused on music maestro A.R. Rahman’s decision to use Artificial Intelligence to recreate the voices of the late singers Bamba Bakya and Shahul Hameed. While some fans found this innovative, others raised concerns about the ethics of using AI to bring back voices that are no longer with us.
A.R. Rahman expressed his views on the increasing integration of AI into music during a talk with PTI. He underscored the need for a careful approach to this new technology, pointing out that while it opens exciting avenues for creativity, it also comes with a responsibility. "I don’t know what’s going to happen,” Rahman remarked. “Some songs can be very inappropriate, yet they feature recognizable voices. We need to regulate this because if we don’t, it could lead to chaos."
He elaborated on the dual sides of technology in music, noting, “There are positive and negative elements. The positive aspects should empower those who may not have had opportunities to showcase their creativity. But, misuse could be detrimental. Using technology in a bad way is similar to inhaling poison unknowingly. Guidelines are essential, just as we have social standards about ethics and conduct.”
Previously, Rahman had addressed the concerns raised about reviving the voices of deceased artists for Lal Salaam, ensuring that their families were consulted and compensated for their participation.
The composer also responded to criticisms from singer Abhijeet Bhattacharya. Bhattacharya accused Rahman of undermining live music and being overly reliant on technology, suggesting that this trend was affecting traditional musicians. In his defense, Rahman reiterated that his aim is not to replace live musicians but to enhance the creative process. He added, “I genuinely support musicians and see technology as a means to explore more opportunities in music.”
In a lighter tone, Rahman mentioned, “It’s easy to blame me for things. I still care for Abhijeet and would even send him cakes. Everyone is entitled to their opinion.”
Rahman also highlighted his efforts to support musicians, sharing that he recently established an orchestra of 60 women in Dubai, providing them with jobs, health benefits, and insurance. He emphasized that numerous musicians contribute to every film project he works on, with movies like Chhaava and Ponniyin Selvan involving hundreds of artists. He noted that while he often doesn’t showcase his collaborations publicly, they are indeed extensive.
On a technical note, Rahman clarified that technology serves merely as a tool for crafting unique sounds and harmonies. He pointed out that it isn’t always feasible to reject musicians after hiring them for projects. Many producers can confirm the vast number of collaborations he has had throughout his career.
Looking ahead, A.R. Rahman is set to team up with renowned filmmaker Mani Ratnam for their upcoming film Thug Life, which will feature Kamal Haasan and is set to hit theaters in India on June 5.
