Grimes embraces AI by allowing fans to simulate her voice for new music

In 2023, in Dubai, Grimes received recognition at the TIME100 AI Impact Awards for her innovative approach to embracing artificial intelligence in the music industry. Unlike many of her contemporaries who have been hesitant to adopt AI, Grimes took a bold step by permitting her fans to use AI technology to simulate her voice for the creation of new musical works. In a groundbreaking move, she also pledged to share royalties from any of the music produced this way, effectively creating a collaborative relationship between herself and her fanbase. The TIME100 AI Impact Awards ceremony also honored other notable leaders in the field of AI. Among them were Anima Anandkumar, a professor from the California Institute of Technology, visual artist Refik Anadol, and Arvind Krishna, the CEO of IBM. The event featured a performance by Emirati soul singer Arqam Al Abri, adding a cultural touch to the celebration of technological advancement. Grimes took the opportunity during her acceptance speech to reflect on the blend of magic and technology, quoting Arthur C. Clarke on how advanced technology can appear magical. In her speech, Grimes highlighted the importance of celebrating innovation and recognizing those making significant contributions to society. She named several figures she believed merited special attention for their groundbreaking work, including David Holz, founder of the generative AI company Midjourney; Aza Raskin, who is assisting in decoding whale communication with AI; and Sam Zeloof, an entrepreneur recognized for his work in chip technology. Additionally, she mentioned Holly Herndon, an artist developing tools for artists to track whether their work is used in AI models, as it addresses the pressing concerns of the creative community amidst the rise of AI technology. Grimes expressed her belief that too often, the focus lies only on the negative aspects of technological advancements, neglecting the positive innovations occurring simultaneously. By pointing out the achievements of various individuals in the tech field, she aimed to inspire others to acknowledge and appreciate the potential of technology to effect positive change. She stressed the necessity of canonizing heroes within tech and celebrating victories rather than dwelling on fears, reinforcing her optimism about the future of AI in music and beyond.