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The Vergecast

Making human music in an AI world

Nov 17, 2024
In this discussion with Ge Wang, a Stanford professor and co-founder of Smule, the conversation dives into the intersection of technology and music. They explore how AI can enhance creativity without overshadowing human artistry. Ge emphasizes the importance of personal fulfillment and playful exploration in music education. The dialogue also touches on the ethical responsibilities of creators using AI and the balance between innovation and preserving unique artistic expression. It’s a fascinating look at how technology can coexist with our creativity.
50:39

Episode guests

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Ge Wang emphasizes the importance of preserving human creativity in music creation amid the rise of AI and generative systems.
  • The podcast advocates for a values-based design approach in technology that nurtures authentic artistic experiences rather than mere optimization.

Deep dives

The Intersection of Music and Technology

The conversation centers on the evolving role of technology in music creation, highlighting the significance of human creativity amid advancements like AI and virtual reality. Gu Wang, a Stanford professor and former entrepreneur, emphasizes that while technology mediates music production, it also opens new avenues for artistic expression. He cites his work with the Smule app, which combines playing music and social interaction, as an example of how technology can enhance the music-making experience. The dialogue shifts to exploring how these technologies can foster unique creative processes rather than simply replace traditional methods.

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