In a recording room at Queen Mary University of London, researchers are experimenting with innovative artificial intelligence (AI) tools to create what they call the "new virtual worlds" of music. Under the guidance of Dr. Mathieu Barthet, a senior lecturer in Digital Media, more than 30 doctoral students, including Andrea Martonelli and Max Graf, are delving into computational creativity and generative AI. They have established a futuristic studio that combines music with cutting-edge technology. Graf refers to this fusion as extended reality, or XR, as it expands the boundaries of our physical reality. He showcases his creation, "Netz, " a virtual instrument played using an augmented-reality headset that tracks gestures to produce notes or chords. Martonelli demonstrates the "HITar, " an advanced guitar equipped with AI sensors that interpret his movements to generate drum and synthesizer sounds. Although AI's presence in music-making can be traced back to the 1950s, recent advancements in generative AI have brought about groundbreaking developments, with robots now capable of creating music. This has sparked divided opinions within the industry, particularly since the emergence of digital pop stars like those popularized by the ChatGPT language system last year. Generative AI has the ability to independently create various content, including original sounds, lyrics, or entire songs. However, many artists prefer to use simpler forms of AI to enhance their sound. UK alternative rock singer-songwriter YUNGBLUD believes that AI could help steer his music in a new direction, while others express concerns about the technology going too far.

Alternative rock duo Nova Twins' Amy Love stated that relying on AI to write songs, especially imitating artists' voices, is not cool. She also criticized the use of deceased artists' voices as being ethically questionable. In November, the Beatles released "Now and Then, " touted as their final song, which featured John Lennon's voice recreated using AI from an old recording. Warner Music announced a partnership with the estate of the late French singer Edith Piaf to recreate her voice using AI technology. While labels and streaming companies collaborate to promote this technology, many experts raise legal and ethical concerns surrounding AI. Abbas Lightwalla, the director of global legal policy at the International Federation of the Phonographic Industry (IFPI), warns that illegal development could jeopardize the opportunities presented by generative AI. However, regulation of generative AI is still in its early stages. Dr. Barthet believes that AI has its place in the music production process as long as it is guided properly and musicians and performers retain a level of control. He also suggests that AI-generated music may unlock possibilities in new and emerging virtual worlds. In conclusion, the exploration of AI in music is ongoing at Queen Mary University of London, where scholars are harnessing innovative AI tools to revolutionize the music industry's virtual landscape. While opinions on the extent of AI's influence vary, there is consensus that careful consideration of legal and ethical implications is crucial.