Fenix Flexin's hit song 'Rubberz' is a fascinating case study in the intersection of AI and pop culture. The track, produced by Purps on the Beat, has achieved mainstream success, peaking at No. 58 on the Billboard Hot 100, marking the first AI-generated record to reach such heights. This raises intriguing questions about the role of AI in music production and its impact on the industry.
The author delves into the controversy surrounding Fenix Flexin's admission that AI played a significant role in the creation of 'Rubberz'. The track's production template, blending the Smiths with the Galaga soundtrack, is described as a TikTok-inspired sound bed that evokes nostalgia and attention-grabbing familiarity. The author compares it to the viral success of 4Batz, who combined drill aesthetics with candy-coated R&B, highlighting the appeal of incongruous and attention-grabbing content.
The article explores the parodic aspect of 'Rubberz' and its influence on other artists, including Tyga's AI-generated '80s pop album. The author questions the homogenization of AI-made music and its potential to influence non-AI tracks, citing Future's 'Hollywood' as an example of an AI-free mimic of 'Rubberz'. The comparison between AI-generated and non-AI tracks is made, emphasizing the human touch in the latter.
The author reflects on the industry's trend towards automation and digitally assisted perfection, drawing parallels to the controversy surrounding AutoTune 20 years ago. The question is raised whether AI will be embraced by real artists or if the industry's skids are too greased for anything but homogenization. The article concludes with a call for a more innovative and human-centric approach to music production, emphasizing the need to avoid the repetition of '80s MTV-style music.
This thought-provoking piece highlights the complex relationship between AI and music, inviting readers to consider the implications of AI's growing influence on the creative process and the potential impact on the industry's future.
