Stanford professor Ge Wang argues that current approaches to AI-generated music fundamentally misunderstand the purpose of artistic creation. In his article published on Stanford HAI’s platform, Wang challenges the notion that AI should primarily serve as a labor-saving tool in creative processes.
The professor, who teaches Music and Computer Science at Stanford’s Center for Computer Research in Music and Acoustics, specifically criticizes AI music company Suno’s approach. He takes issue with Suno CEO’s statement that “the majority of people don’t enjoy the majority of the time they spend making music,” arguing that this perspective overlooks the inherent value of the creative process.
Wang emphasizes that the difficulties and challenges encountered while creating art are essential components of artistic expression, not obstacles to be eliminated. He draws parallels to other activities like hiking or gaming, where people willingly engage in challenging experiences for the ultimate fulfillment they provide.
The article describes Wang’s own evolution from wanting to build “the world’s most advanced algorithmic composition engine” during his graduate studies at Princeton to recognizing the importance of human engagement in the creative process. This shift came after a pivotal conversation with a guitarist who simply asked him, “What’s the point?”
Wang’s current work at Stanford includes teaching a “Music and AI” course where students are encouraged to create “useless things that are interesting” as a way to explore technology’s potential beyond mere utility. He argues that the current focus on prompt-based generative AI represents “the least imaginative use of AI” possible.
The professor warns that companies like Suno, which recently received $125 million in venture capital funding, are essentially creating a new generation of passive consumers rather than empowering creative expression. While not opposing generative AI entirely, Wang advocates for preserving spaces where humans can engage in the full creative process, including its challenges and difficulties.
The article concludes with Wang’s personal perspective as a parent, expressing his hope that his young daughter will learn to value and embrace the difficulties inherent in creative expression, with or without AI.