SZA has expressed her deep apprehension regarding the growing influence of artificial intelligence in the music industry, particularly its implications for Black artists. The acclaimed singer, known for her powerful lyrics and emotive performances, feels as though she is in a battle against a technology that she believes is disproportionately affecting her community.
In an interview with i-D magazine, SZA articulated her frustrations, stating, “I feel like I’m at war because of AI.” She highlighted the troubling trend of AI-generated music, questioning why emerging artists like Olivia Dean are being overshadowed by AI covers before they even have a chance to establish their presence in the industry. This situation, she argues, not only undermines the artists’ ability to gain recognition but also perpetuates a cycle of exploitation.
SZA’s discontent extends to the nature of the music produced by AI, which she describes as “weird, stereotypical struggle music.” She believes that the richness of human experience cannot be replicated by machines, stating, “The type of blend of information my human experience provides, AI can’t even be prompted to f*** with.” This sentiment reflects her desire for authenticity and depth in music, qualities she feels are being compromised in the age of AI.
Moreover, SZA has voiced her concerns about the broader societal implications of AI technology. She remarked on the fragmentation within communities, noting, “It’s so scary to realize that we’re so deeply unprepared and fractured as a society.” Her comments underscore a growing anxiety about the loss of community and solidarity in an increasingly digital world.
Last summer, she took to social media to criticize the reliance on AI, urging her followers to consider the environmental impact of such technologies, particularly on marginalized communities. She warned that the convenience of AI comes at a significant cost, stating, “There is a price for convenience and Black and Brown will pay the brunt of it every time.” SZA’s concerns are further echoed in her song “Ghost in the Machine” from her 2022 album SOS, where she reflects on the emotional disconnect that AI can create.
