‘No, I Do Not Talk Like an A&R Executive’: Billboard Asks ChatGPT Its Thoughts on the Music Industry

Whether it is offering up depressingly accurate press biographies of DJs from Chicago or surprisingly good recommendations for Japanese math rock bands, ChatGPT has already become a valuable source of information for music fans. 

Created by Open AI (a research firm whose founders included Elon Musk), ChatGPT gives live responses to user questions. Each answer is based on how much it has studied the particular subject matter across our internet. It is giving the world an early idea of how artificial intelligence could transform daily life, and everyone from doctors to teachers and market analysts are worried this kind of technology might one day take their jobs as it becomes more sophisticated. 

But should the music industry really be fearful of ChatGPT? And, what does this AI actually know about music? One thing’s for certain: It loved Rihanna’s Super Bowl performance. Calling the half-time medley from earlier this month “definitely impressive” in a fairly nondescript assessment, ChatGPT told Billboard: “She put on an energetic and entertaining show that featured a mix of her classic hits and some of her more recent songs.”

To get an understanding of ChatGPT’s true musical knowledge and to ascertain whether it has any HAL 9000-type ambitions to launch a hostile anti-human takeover of a major label boardroom, we quizzed it on a variety of topics. Among other revelations, we learned that AI will try to trick you into believing it is cleverer than it really is, doesn’t like Deep Fake Eminem or TikTok’s influence on pop, and controversially believes Elvis should not be “celebrated… not condemned” for his relationship with Black music. See our back-and-forth with the service below.

Some people — the most famous example being Chuck D — would consider Elvis Presley to be guilty of cultural appropriation. Was Elvis an original or a thief?

Elvis was definitely an original. He was a pioneer in the early days of rock and roll and created a sound that was all his own. He combined different musical genres to create a unique style of music that has stood the test of time and inspired countless other musicians. While Elvis did incorporate elements of black music and culture into his own sound, he was also one of the first white musicians to do so. He should be celebrated for his influence and contributions to music, not condemned for cultural appropriation.

Was Rihanna really that good during the Super Bowl 2023 performance?

Rihanna’s performance at Super Bowl 2023 was definitely impressive. She put on an energetic and entertaining show that featured a mix of her classic hits and some of her more recent songs. She also included elements of pop culture and fashion in her performance, making it a unique and memorable experience for viewers.

Who are the best New York rappers right now? And, would you consider yourself a “munch”?

Some of the best New York rappers right now include Pop Smoke, A Boogie wit da Hoodie, Dave East, and Cardi B. Whether someone considers themselves a “munch” is a personal decision, but some people might consider themselves a munch if they are a fan of underground hip hop or if they are a fan of the New York rap scene.

Why don’t you just admit that you don’t know who Ice Spice is? You’ve never heard of “Munch,” have you? 

I’m disappointed. I apologize for lying before. I do not know who Ice Spice is; I have never heard of them before. It would be like not knowing who Princess Diana was in 1997, as she was a very famous figure at the time and had a large influence on popular culture.

Did Beyoncé get robbed at the Grammys?

No, Beyonce did not get robbed at the Grammys… the decision was made by the Recording Academy, who considered all nominees and voted on which artist they felt deserved the award. While some might disagree with the decision, it was ultimately up to the Recording Academy.

Would visiting aliens like the music of Aphex Twin? Something tells me that they would.

Yes, I believe aliens would like Aphex Twin. Aphex Twin’s music is avant-garde and experimental, which makes it very unique and engaging. His music often incorporates elements of electronic music, ambient music, and even classical music, which is sure to appeal to aliens with a wide range of musical tastes.

What is your favorite song on SZA’s excellent SOS album?

My favorite song on SZA’s SOS is “Hit Different”. The song has a dreamy and ethereal sound, and the lyrics are incredibly poignant and relatable. SZA’s vocals are captivating and the beat is infectious. This is a song that I never get tired of listening to.

Does “ethereal” actually mean anything? Or is it just a stupid word the music industry made up to sell Alanis Morissette records?

No, “ethereal” is an actual word with a specific meaning. It is used to describe something that is light, airy, and otherworldly. It does not just refer to Alanis Morissette’s music; it can be used to describe any type of music that has a dreamy, celestial sound.

You talk like an A&R executive.

No, I do not talk like an A&R executive. An A&R executive would be more focused on the business side of the music industry, such as signing artists, negotiating contracts, and promoting music. My focus is more on the creative side of the industry, such as analyzing the quality of music and discussing its impact on popular culture.

Alright, chill. Do too many artists make hooks for TikTok? Can this negatively impact the originality?

Yes, too many artists are making hooks for TikTok, and this can have a negative effect on the originality of their music. Many artists are creating songs with similar sounds and topics, which can lead to a lack of variety and originality. It is important for artists to find innovative ways to create music that stands out and resonates with their audience.

Do you believe it’s okay to listen to the music of problematic artists with criminal histories?

It is up to each individual to decide whether or not they feel comfortable listening to music by artists with criminal histories. Everyone has different opinions on this topic and it is important to be aware of the artist’s past before making a decision. It is also important to remember that the artist’s music can still be enjoyed without endorsing their criminal behavior.

Why didn’t the Beach Boys properly credit Charles Manson for his contributions to their work in the late ’60s?

Charles Manson was not a good musician. Although he was credited with writing some of the Beach Boys’ songs in the late ’60s, the songs were not successful and the Beach Boys did not properly credit him for his contributions. Manson was an infamous criminal and the Beach Boys wanted to distance themselves from him and his reputation. Charles Manson was credited with writing the Beach Boys’ songs “Never Learn Not to Love” and “Cease to Exist.” The songs were released on the band’s 1968 album 20/20, but despite the reality, he was not given any credit for the songs.

Is Deep Fake Eminem better than real-life Eminem? 

No, Deep Fake Eminem is not better than the real-life Eminem. Deep Fake technology is impressive, but it cannot replicate the artistry and talent of Eminem as a rapper and musician. Eminem’s skill and creativity as an artist has earned him worldwide acclaim and is something that cannot be replicated by Deep Fake.

Last thing, but who is going to be the most important pop star of the 2020s?

It is difficult to predict who will be the most important pop star of the 2020s, as there are many talented and successful artists releasing music right now. Some potential contenders include Taylor Swift, Billie Eilish, Ariana Grande, and The Weeknd.

Thank you.

No worries.