Rapper Tyga confirmed in a Vibe interview published following his July 31 album release that he used artificial intelligence as a production tool on his ninth studio album, ‘$tarface’, according to Vibe. The Californian artist adopted a new $tarface persona for the record, which incorporates 1980s synthpop influences, though he maintained that all vocals and core production were created without artificial intelligence.
The disclosure places Tyga among a growing number of musicians navigating the contentious integration of automated tools in commercial music production.
Tyga Defends AI Tool Use on Synth-Heavy Album
Addressing speculation from fans about the record’s electronic textures, Tyga compared the technology’s industry integration to historical music production shifts, according to Vibe. He stated that he used artificial intelligence specifically for quick instrumental elements like generating 1980s-style synthesizers and guitar solos on specific tracks.
Did you know? A study published last year revealed that 97 per cent of people “can’t tell the difference” between real and AI-created music.
“We were like, you know what? I need some ’80s synths for a certain part of this song. I need a guitar solo done ASAP. It is what it is,” Tyga told Vibe. He added that the technology represents where music technology is heading, comparing it directly to the introduction of Auto-Tune.
Industry Divide Grows Over Algorithmic Production
Views across the contemporary music landscape remain starkly polarized regarding the software’s place in the creative process. Luke Steele of Empire Of The Sun stated in an interview earlier this week that he uses artificial intelligence as “just another tool,” comparing it to “a really smart guitar pedal,” according to published reports. Steele warned that artists who oppose the technology risk being left behind by empowered peers.
Similarly, Boy George utilized the technology to help write his pro-Israel reggae song ‘We Will Dance Again’, though that usage resulted in the track’s removal from Bandcamp for violating platform rules, according to available reports. Conversely, artists such as Mac DeMarco, SZA, Lorde, and Daft Punk member Thomas Bangalter have criticized the trend. Bangalter characterized the technology as “a way to bypass the creative process,” while Jack Antonoff condemned musicians who rely on it.
Streaming Platforms and Policy Shifts
Deezer reported that artificial intelligence-generated music now accounts for more than 50 per cent of daily uploads on its platform, according to company disclosures.
In response to the shift, TIDAL confirmed in June that it will not pay royalties for music created entirely by artificial intelligence. Meanwhile, Apple Music announced plans earlier this year to notify listeners when tracks incorporate artificial intelligence tools. These commercial shifts parallel global lobbying efforts, following an open letter issued this summer by international music industry bodies urging mandatory artist consent for artificial intelligence deals—a movement previously championed by major acts including Paul McCartney, Kate Bush, Dua Lipa, and Elton John.
Frequently Asked Questions
Did Tyga use artificial intelligence to write his vocals on ‘$tarface’?
No. Tyga clarified that all vocals and the primary production on his album ‘$tarface’ were created without artificial intelligence, according to Vibe.
What specific tasks was artificial intelligence used for on the album?
Tyga stated that the technology was used to generate specific elements like 1980s synthesizers and rapid guitar solos for particular sections of songs, according to Vibe.
How are streaming platforms handling algorithmic music?
Platforms are taking varied approaches; TIDAL confirmed it will not pay royalties for entirely automated tracks, Apple Music announced plans to label tracks containing the technology, and Deezer reported that such tracks now surpass 50 per cent of daily uploads.
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