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The Grammy Controversy: Drake and The Weeknd’s AI Track Eligibility

The Grammy Controversy: Drake and The Weeknd’s AI Track Eligibility

Image credit: lev radin / Shutterstock.com

The world of music has been abuzz with the recent controversy surrounding the eligibility of “Heart On My Sleeve,” an Artificial Intelligence (AI) generated track featuring vocals of Drake and The Weeknd, for the upcoming Grammy Awards.

The Track: A Remarkable Feat of AI

The song, which surfaced on YouTube in April, later migrated to streaming platforms, amassing over 630,000 streams on Spotify before being taken down by Universal Music Group. It caused a stir due to its accurate replication of the artists’ vocals and lyricism, despite them not having any direct involvement in its composition.

Grammy Eligibility: A New Precedent

This week, the track was deemed eligible for Grammy consideration by Recording Academy CEO Harvey Mason Jr., who stated that “it’s absolutely eligible because it was written by a human.” This statement has sparked discussion among industry professionals, as it opens the door for AI-generated music to be considered for prestigious awards.

The Controversy: Universal’s Stand Against AI Music

While the tech world celebrates this as a victory for AI, Universal Music Group has taken a stand against the use of AI-generated music. In a statement released in April, they called AI music a “fraud,” and requested its ban from streaming platforms.

Universal Music Group calls AI music a “fraud,” and wants it banned from streaming platforms. Experts say it’s not that easy. https://t.co/g8CHWp3eH0 pic.twitter.com/DESVr3755Y

— CNN International (@cnni) April 19, 2023

The Dilemma: Embrace AI or Protect Artists?

Universal has always embraced new technology for the benefit of its artists, including having their own innovation around AI. However, they took issue with the use of their artists’ music to create AI-generated tracks, labeling it as a violation of their agreements and copyright law.

The Choice: Artists and Fans or Deep Fakes and Fraud?

Universal’s statement presents music industry stakeholders with a critical choice: to side with artists, fans, and human creative expression, or to support deep fakes and fraud, denying artists their due compensation.

The Responsibility: Platforms Must Act

Universal believes that platforms have a fundamental legal and ethical responsibility to prevent the use of their services in ways that harm artists. They are encouraged by the engagement of their platform partners on these issues, as they recognize the need to be part of the solution.

The Future: Uncertain Times Ahead

This controversy has ignited a debate that could redefine the music industry. As AI continues to advance and blur the lines between human and machine creativity, industry stakeholders will have to grapple with complex ethical and legal issues. It remains to be seen how this will play out, but one thing is certain: the music industry is in for a shakeup.

Conclusion: A Call to Action

The debate surrounding AI music and its eligibility for awards like the Grammy is more than just a legal issue. It’s a call to action for the music industry to define its stance on AI and to create norms that protect artists while also embracing innovation. As the saga of “Heart On My Sleeve” continues, it will undoubtedly shape the future of music.

Bib Sama: The Rising Star of the UK Music Scene 

Bib Sama: The Rising Star of the UK Music Scene 

As the echoes of the Notting Hill Carnival fade and we enter the twilight of summer, UK’s music scene refuses to dim. Among the artists still lighting up the stage is none other than the rising rapper and singer, Bib Sama. His latest single, “Baefriend”, is making waves and promises to keep the party going well into the autumn. 

London’s Emerging Talent 

Born and raised in London, Bib Sama has been on a steady climb to stardom. His debut mixtape, “PLATINUS ✧”, dropped last year and has been making noise ever since. His subsequent sold-out gig at Peckham Audio only added to the buzz surrounding this promising artist. 

“All eyes have been on him ever since, and this new track looks like it could be his breakout smash.” 

The Sound of “Nu-grime” 

Bib Sama’s sound is as intriguing as it is catchy. Drawing inspiration from video game soundtracks and anime, he’s crafted a unique sound that’s been dubbed “nu-grime”. This genre-bending style has earned him comparisons to artists like JPEGMAFIA and Lancey Foux. But despite these comparisons, Bib Sama is carving out a niche all his own. 

“Either way, he’s drawing an impassioned following that looks certain to grow beyond cult status.” 

“Baefriend” Drops 

With the release of his latest single, “Baefriend”, Bib Sama continues to prove why he’s one of the most exciting artists in the UK right now. The accompanying music video, which just dropped, is not to be missed. Add “Baefriend” to your playlists and keep an eye on this emerging talent. 
  

What’s Next for Bib Sama? 

While we can’t predict the future, one thing is certain: Bib Sama’s star is on the rise. With his unique sound, impressive discography, and growing fanbase, we can’t wait to see where he goes from here. 

In the meantime, we’ll be here, eagerly anticipating his next move and keeping “Baefriend” on repeat. 

Conclusion 

In the ever-evolving world of music, new stars are born every day. But few shine as brightly as Bib Sama. With his blend of unique sounds and undeniable talent, he’s an artist to watch. 

Whether you’re a long-time fan or just now discovering his music, one thing is clear: Bib Sama isn’t going anywhere but up. And we’re here for the ride. 

Maiya The Don: Mariah Carey’s Stamp of Approval and Music’s Rising Star

Maiya The Don: Mariah Carey’s Stamp of Approval and Music’s Rising Star

IMAGE credit: Everett Collection / Shutterstock.com

Maiya The Don, the fresh face of New York’s music scene, recently unveiled a surprise for her fans. During the 2023 ENVSN Festival in Brooklyn, the rapper dropped a bombshell about her upcoming single, “Body”. The new track promises to be an exciting creative endeavor, with the surprising twist of including a sample from Mariah Carey’s hit song, “Touch My Body”. What’s even more noteworthy? The pop icon herself has given the song her seal of approval.

Mariah Carey’s Endorsement of Maiya’s New Single

“The queen Mariah loves it. So that means you have to love it. I don’t make the rules,” Maiya The Don stated confidently when asked about her upcoming track.

This endorsement from Mariah Carey, an established icon in the music industry, is an exciting development for Maiya. With this approval, Maiya’s upcoming single “Body” is already creating a buzz even before its official release.

A Glimpse into “Body”

In a tantalizing teaser shared on Instagram, Maiya gave us a glimpse into her new track. Her lyrics are bold and powerful, promising a song that’s full of attitude and grit.

“Bi**h! Play with me if you want/ Tell these h*es I don’t duck no smoke/ I know all you bi**hes know/ Knock the wig right off a troll/ You can hate me but we know, none of you bi**hes wanna test my body/ Wrist froze (yeah), f**k a showboat, your ni**a want more.”

Maiya’s Journey: From “Telfy” to “Body”

Her journey started with the viral hit “Telfy” in 2022, which paid homage to the popular Black-owned luxury brand Telfar. The music video for “Telfy” astoundingly amassed over 200 million views on YouTube, cementing Maiya’s status as a rising star in the music industry.

Maiya then followed up with her single “Luv U Better”, which featured Saddiq Saunderson from Wu-Tang: An American Saga as her love interest in the music video. She was also featured in a few tracks, including Flo Millie’s 2023 “Conceited (Remix)” with Lola Brooke, and made an appearance in Lakeyah’s video for “Want Em Hood”.

Maiya The Don and Hip-Hop’s 50th Anniversary

On the occasion of Hip-Hop’s 50th anniversary, Maiya teamed up with Google Pixel to deliver a few lines about why Hip-Hop holds a special place in her heart. Her deep connection with the music genre adds another layer to her artistry and persona.

Anticipation for “Body”

With the release date for “Body” still under wraps, the anticipation amongst fans and music enthusiasts is palpable. With the song following the successful “Luv U Better” and the viral “Telfy”, expectations are high. Add to that the endorsement from Mariah Carey, and it’s clear that Maiya The Don’s new single is one of the most eagerly awaited tracks of the year.

Conclusion

Maiya The Don is undoubtedly a rising star in the music industry. Her unique style, powerful lyrics, and the ability to collaborate with and get endorsements from industry heavyweights like Mariah Carey set her apart. As we eagerly wait for the release of “Body”, one thing’s for sure – Maiya The Don is a name you’ll be hearing a lot more of in the music world.

Lil Yachty Blazes a Trail with Visual Stunner “TESLA” 

Lil Yachty Blazes a Trail with Visual Stunner “TESLA” 

## The Year of Lil Yachty 

Before we delve into the masterpiece that is “TESLA”, let’s take a moment to appreciate the journey that has led Lil Yachty to this point. Charting a course through the 2023 music scene like a ship on high seas, Lil Yachty has been nothing short of prodigious. His audacious venture outside the traditional hip-hop sphere with his fifth studio album Let’s Start Here was a testament to his versatility as an artist. The 14-track album saw collaborations with the likes of Diana Gordon, Teezo Touchdown, Justine Skye, Foushee, Ant Clemons, and Daniel Caesar

His momentum didn’t stop there. Yachty‘s musical repertoire expanded with a series of tracks such as “Strike (Holster)”, “Satellite”, “SOLO STEPPIN CRETE BOY”, and “SLIDE” that showcased his lyrical prowess and unique style. Yet, it was on a fateful Friday in August that Yachty truly made waves with his new single, our focus for this piece, “TESLA”. 

The Birth of “TESLA” 

Crafted by the talented duo MitchGoneMad and WessGoneMad, “TESLA” is a testament to Yachty’s evolving style, filled with lyrical bravado that paints a vivid picture of street life, and the allure of a high-end lifestyle. The lyrics, unapologetically bold and defiant, resonate with Yachty’s audience, encapsulating the spirit of the streets: 

“I ain’t goin’ back and forth with that n**ga, he ain’t even made no millions, he keep on droppin’ the block, it’s a real reason, back and forth, back and forth, ’til it ain’t even, ’til it ain’t easy, seek help, immediately, go, ooh, ooh, ooh, gas him up and get him killed, my b**ch spoiled like the milk, he get tough off a pill, he get peeled, send that b**ch home, actin’ goofy, my cup spilled, b**ch, you for real?” 
 

“TESLA” Visuals: A Feast for the Eyes 

The visual counterpart to “TESLA” is a spectacle in and of itself. Directed by Cole Bennett and produced by Lyrical Lemonade, the video is a vibrant, color-infused journey through various stylized settings. Each frame captures Yachty in a myriad of fashionable ensembles, adding a touch of sartorial elegance to the high-energy narrative. 

You can watch the “TESLA” music video here

The Road Ahead: “The Field Trip Tour” 

But the journey doesn’t stop at “TESLA”. Come September, Lil Yachty is set to embark on “The Field Trip Tour”, a musical expedition that will traverse numerous North American cities before making its way overseas in November. Fans who wish to be a part of this musical journey can purchase tickets from the official website

As an artist, Lil Yachty’s 2023 trajectory has been nothing short of impressive. From the release of his fifth studio album to the launch of “TESLA” and the upcoming “The Field Trip Tour”, Yachty is setting the stage for a new era of his musical journey, one that promises to be as vibrant and dynamic as the artist himself. 

Whether you’re a seasoned Lil Yachty fan or a newcomer to his music, “TESLA” offers a glimpse into the evolution of an artist who isn’t afraid to push boundaries and redefine the music landscape. So, plug in your headphones, hit play on “TESLA”, and get ready to embark on a musical journey like no other. 

“Ciara and Chris Brown Set the Scene Ablaze in the Vibrant ‘How We Roll’ Music Video”

“Ciara and Chris Brown Set the Scene Ablaze in the Vibrant ‘How We Roll’ Music Video”

In a celebration of music, dance, and camaraderie, Ciara and Chris Brown come together for an electrifying house party in their latest music video, “How We Roll.” The dynamic duo’s infectious energy and undeniable chemistry light up the screen, making it a visual spectacle that fans won’t want to miss.

The video kicks off with Ciara and Chris Brown extending invitations to each other’s parties, sparking a friendly competition to see who can throw the most unforgettable bash. The playful banter sets the stage for a music-filled showdown that unfolds in a unique and engaging way.

Set against a backdrop of vibrant colors and pulsating beats, Ciara and Chris Brown perform their laidback yet groovy R&B anthem, “How We Roll.” The track captures the essence of a carefree party atmosphere, and their smooth vocals effortlessly complement the infectious rhythm. The song’s catchy chorus and memorable melodies create the perfect soundtrack for the lively festivities.

Ciara takes the stage in an all-black ensemble paired with iconic Nike Air Command Forces, showcasing her signature style and commanding presence. Chris Brown makes a striking appearance in a scarlet and white varsity jacket, reminiscent of his iconic “Kiss Kiss” music video look. The pair’s distinct fashion choices add to the visual appeal of the video, emphasizing their individuality and star power.

Their moves pay homage to legends like Michael and Janet Jackson, infusing the performance with a sense of nostalgia and reverence for the history of dance in music. The choreography perfectly complements the track’s upbeat tempo and adds an extra layer of entertainment to the visual experience.

“How We Roll” serves as the lead single from Ciara’s highly anticipated EP, fittingly titled “CiCi,” scheduled for release on August 18, 2023. The project marks a new chapter in her musical journey and is set to showcase her evolution as an artist. Building on the success of her previous album, “Beauty Marks,” the EP promises to deliver an exciting blend of R&B, dance, and pop elements that fans have

come to love.

In “How We Roll,” Ciara and Chris Brown’s dynamic collaboration not only celebrates music and dance but also highlights their genuine connection and shared passion for creating memorable experiences. As fans eagerly anticipate the release of “CiCi,” this visually captivating music video offers a tantalizing glimpse into the vibrant world they can expect to explore.