In this discussion, Ann Powers, an NPR Music critic, reflects on the fate of Pitchfork and the importance of diverse voices in music journalism. Kyle Chayka, a New Yorker staff writer, critiques how algorithms shape music discovery, often sacrificing quality for quantity. Mark Henry Phillips, a composer, reveals how AI music generators challenge traditional music creation, raising ethical concerns about artists' futures. Together, they explore the intersection of technology and creativity, questioning the future of musical authenticity.

Mark Henry Phillips, a talented film and podcast composer, joins to discuss the rapid evolution of AI in music. The conversation dives into how AI tools can create songs, raising questions about the future of music composition. Phillips shares his experiences and worries that AI may replace human creativity. They explore the complexities of copyright law and the ethics surrounding AI-generated music. Ultimately, the discussion challenges our understanding of inspiration versus imitation in art and creativity.

Passenger List creator, co-writer and co-director John Scott Dryden and editor, sound designer and composer Mark Henry Phillips dive deep into the show's opening news montages, in conversation with Audrey Mardavich, managing producer of Radiotopia. Time is running out. Make your mark on Passenger List and Radiotopia before the new year at radiotopia.fm. Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices