In a candid yet concerned tone, acclaimed composer AR Rahman has expressed his disapproval of the increasing trend of remixing and reimagining songs without obtaining due permission from the original creators. Known for crafting some of the most timeless and innovative soundscapes in Indian cinema over the past three decades, Rahman’s work has become a frequent target of remixes by emerging artists in both films and music albums.
In an enlightening interview with The Week, AR Rahman addressed the pervasive issue of copyright infringement that composers face today. “I believe in always following certain ethics,” said the Oscar-winning composer, emphasizing the importance of respecting the original creators. “You can’t take a song from a movie and use it in another movie six years later, saying you are reimagining it. You can’t reimagine people’s work without their permission. You could post it on Instagram, but certainly not make it mainstream.”
Rahman’s firm stance raises pivotal questions about the delicate balance between creative expression and ethical responsibility within the music industry. The evolution of technology, particularly with platforms enabling the widespread sharing and modification of music, heightens the need for stringent copyright protections. For artists like Rahman, safeguarding the integrity of their original compositions is paramount.
Alongside unauthorized remixes, Rahman has voiced apprehension about the ramifications of Artificial Intelligence (AI) misuse in music. While the composer is not entirely opposed to AI—it can indeed offer ethical enhancements in areas where human procrastination often plagues issues such as the justice system, infrastructure, and education—there remains a dark side. Rahman articulated his concern about composers not being remunerated for their creative output even when AI applications borrow their distinctive styles.
. “An even bigger evil is people misusing AI and not paying the composer even if they are borrowing his style. We need to bell this cat, because it could lead to major ethical issues. People could lose jobs,” he warned.
In Rahman’s perspective, the unchecked adoption of AI in music composition poses a significant threat not only to the livelihood of composers but also to the creative aspects of the industry. The potential overshadowing of human creativity with machine-generated art could result in a monotonous landscape lacking the unique voice and emotional depth that only human experiences can infuse into music.
Rahman’s clarion call urges the industry and listeners alike to conscientiously weigh the implications of remix culture and technological innovation against the backdrop of artistic integrity. His insights provoke a broader discourse on the responsibilities that come with these capabilities, particularly among younger artists eager to carve their niches using existing works as stepping stones without due diligence or respect for the original creators.
The ongoing dialogue about ethical practices in music brings to the forefront the need for comprehensive frameworks that protect artists’ rights while fostering healthy creative exploration. With luminaries like AR Rahman spearheading these critical conversations, it becomes increasingly clear that advancing the music industry necessitates a firm commitment to ethical standards—a commitment that elevates originality and respects the sanctity of creative expressions.
As we reflect on Rahman’s statements, they serve as a timely reminder of the profound responsibility shared by all stakeholders in the music industry—from composers and producers to publishers and listeners. The advent of new technologies and platforms invariably demands renewed vigilance and cooperation to ensure that creativity is not only celebrated but also safeguarded. AR Rahman’s vocal stance underscores an urgent call for re-evaluation, insisting that just as music has the power to unite and heal, it must also adhere to principles that honor the creators behind it.
Published – October 26, 2024 01:33 pm IST Indian cinema music
