Rock legend Ted Nugent recently slammed artificial intelligence in music. He believes that AI cannot replicate the emotional depth and technical nuance of human artistry.
Ted Nugent criticizes AI music
On YouTube, Nugent expressed strong skepticism regarding AI’s ability to capture the essence of authentic musical performance. He focused particularly on the intangible qualities that define great musicianship.
“AI kiss my a—. Artificial intelligence will never be able to play the guitar solo to ‘Journey to the Center of the Mind.’ Oh, it’ll sound like it, but it won’t have those nuances. It won’t have that piss and vinegar. Won’t have that edge. Won’t have the grit from my fingertips,” Nugent said.
The guitarist highlighted that quality artistry comes from genuine human connection and emotion. He believes AI fundamentally cannot provide these elements.
“Quality of life comes from heart and soul connections. AI can’t do that. It might sound like it. It might look like it, but it’ll never be that. In fact, AI is just the opposite of reality, emotion, spirit, meaningfulness. AI cannot stare into the dark sky at the stars and wonder. AI can’t do that,” he continued.
Nugent referenced legendary performers to further illustrate his point. He suggested that no algorithm could authentically replicate their artistry.
“AI can’t do anything that James Brown did. They might do a hologram of some guy dancing, but it won’t be James Brown. You won’t sense the sweat and the piss and vinegar, the emotion, the defiance, the soulfulness. AI can’t do Little Richard,” Nugent stated.
