Renowned singer Kumar Sanu is paving the way as the first Indian singer to legally protect his personality rights amidst the rise of Artificial Intelligence (AI) duplicating celebrity voices.
In an era where AI technology can replicate voices with startling accuracy, Kumar Sanu is taking preemptive legal action to safeguard his distinctive baritone from unauthorized use. He joins the ranks of actors like Amitabh Bachchan, Anil Kapoor, and Jackie Shroff, who have already taken measures to protect their personas in India.
Kumar Sanu’s Concerns and Actions
During a recent visit to the United States for concerts, Kumar Sanu realized the urgency of protecting his voice in an increasingly AI-dominated world. Expressing his concerns, he emphasized the ethical implications of AI-generated duplicates, stating, “Creating duplicate voices using AI is not right. It undermines the authenticity and uniqueness of an artist. I believe it’s necessary to take legal steps to prevent misuse.”
The influence of AI extends beyond mere duplication, impacting the music industry’s creative landscape. Kumar Sanu’s timeless melodies continue to resonate through AI-generated covers, demonstrating the enduring power of nostalgia in contemporary music. Filmmakers often resort to remaking old classics, raising questions about the current state of original music.
The State of Today’s Music
When asked about the quality of modern music, Kumar Sanu expressed reservations about the direction it has taken. He criticized the industry’s emphasis on profit-driven productions at the expense of melody and meaningful lyrics. “Producers and directors seem to overlook the essence of music. They force-feed the public with shallow lyrics and neglect the true artistry of music,” he lamented.
While acknowledging the appeal of remakes, Kumar Sanu stressed the irreplaceable charm of original renditions sung by their creators. “I support the revival of old songs, but if the original singer is available and capable, no one else can do justice to the song like them,” he asserted. He urged industry stakeholders to recognize and preserve the intrinsic value of authentic musical expression.
As Kumar Sanu prepares to take legal action to safeguard his voice, his initiative marks a significant step in protecting artists’ integrity and creative rights in the face of advancing technology. His stance reflects broader concerns within the entertainment industry regarding the ethical use of AI and its impact on artistic authenticity.
Kumar Sanu’s decision to protect his personality rights underscores the evolving challenges and opportunities brought forth by AI in the realm of entertainment. As he navigates these complexities, his dedication to preserving musical authenticity serves as a reminder of the enduring value of genuine artistic expression in an increasingly digital world.
