Artificial Intelligence in Music: Catalyst of Creativity or Vector of Structural Disruption?

Abstract

Artificial intelligence (AI) is rapidly transforming the music industry by reshaping creative processes, lowering barriers to entry, and redefining governance structures. This article examines AI’s dual role as both a catalyst for innovation and a potential source of artistic and economic disruption. On the creative front, AI-assisted tools enable rapid composition, personalized learning, and new forms of experimentation; however, they also risk homogenization, cognitive dependency, and diminished originality. From the standpoint of accessibility, AI democratizes music production by reducing costs and technical barriers, yet disparities in digital access and algorithmic visibility persist. Governance challenges are equally significant, as AI-driven platforms influence discovery, revenue distribution, and authorship attribution, often reinforcing existing power asymmetries. To address these concerns, this article evaluates emerging decentralized frameworks, particularly blockchain and Web3 systems, which offer mechanisms for transparent attribution, equitable royalty distribution, and participatory governance. These technologies provide a potential counterbalance to centralized algorithmic control, enabling more artist-centered ecosystems. Ultimately, the impact of AI in music depends not on the technology itself but on the institutional structures guiding its use. Thoughtful integration can position AI as an augmentative tool that enhances human creativity while preserving artistic integrity and equity.