YouTube Introduces AIGenerated Music With Dream Track Feature

YouTube is getting into AI-generated music with its new Dream Track feature. The platform is testing a generative AI feature that allows users to create music tracks using text messages or simple melodies. Already in the hands of several American creators, the Dream Track feature automatically creates 30-second tracks by nine well-known artists, including Alec Benjamin, Charlie Puth, Sia and T-Pain.

Dream Tracks, designed to mimic the styles of collaborating artists, were introduced as part of YouTube's exploration of AI-generated music with copyright rules in mind. YouTube aims to strike a balance with big brands by emphasizing responsible use of AI. The initial group of contributing artists includes Charlie Puth, John Legend, Sia, and many more. This reflects YouTube's commitment to deeper relationships between artists and content creators.

The Dream Track feature is currently being tested with a small, select group of content creators in America. Users can create music by sending text messages such as “A song about the attraction of opposites and upbeat acoustics” to create a Dream Track style song. Charlie Puth or "A Sunny Morning in Florida, R&B" for a song inspired by T-Pain. The software generates lyrics, backing tracks, and AI-generated voices similar to the selected artist's voice, with an emphasis on integration with the YouTube Shorts service.

YouTube has also introduced other AI-powered musical tools, allowing users to create music tracks without traditional instruments. Google DeepMind's Lyria music creation model supports this tool. AI-generated audio produced by Lyria includes a muted SynthID watermark that helps identify AI-generated content, even if the content has been edited.

As the music industry is wary of AI-generated content, top executives, including Universal Music Group Chairman Lucien Grange, support YouTube's trials. The Dream Track initiative is described as an effort to explore the potential of technology to create meaningful connections between artists and creatives.

YouTube's Dream Track feature is part of a beta phase that strengthens collaboration between artists and technology partners. The platform seeks input from participating artists to shape the future of AI-generated music. Details on how AI technology will be taught and potential monetization strategies are still to be determined, highlighting the experimental nature of Dream Track.

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