Music Matters XXXIX -  Oral Tradition and AI

We are excited to announce the next edition of Music Matters, entitled “Oral Tradition and AI” presented by Rahel Aklilu from EMI Records. This talk is the first in the series “Future Sounds” which focuses on how AI and the shift toward right-wing politics across Europe and the US, are shaping both the future of the music industry and artistic expression more broadly. We are delighted to have writer and Music Industry professional Rahel Aklilu as our first speaker.

Please see below for the abstract and further details:

Oral tradition, archiving and documentation of culture have undoubtedly evolved. As we move towards digital documentation (which is evolving in itself) the role of oral tradition holds greater importance in preserving the music and culture we consume and enjoy, which serve as living archives of our times. Artificial intelligence can, and has been used to both aid and disrupt these traditions but what does the future look like? We will look at the overlap between technology, tradition and community and how they affect narrative. 

Rahel Aklilu is a London-based freelance writer and music industry professional. Her work encompasses a range of topics within music, culture and fashion with a focus on amplifying work in the Black diaspora and beyond, often through the lens of socio-politics. Publications she has written for include The Face, Dazed, Complex UK, Clash and Vice.