JEFF TURNER

Leading music publishers from the southern gospel genre recently met to discuss the implications of artificial intelligence or AI on songs, songwriters and song demos within the industry. The meeting was said to be highly productive. Rick Shelton, Vice President of Daywind Music Publishing sums up their thoughts.

“It’s my personal belief that songs intended to reach souls with the Gospel must becreated by souls who are living in relationship with Jesus. If the angels can’t sing the songs of the redeemed, how can we allow algorithms to write the songs of the redeemed?” Said Shelton.

The consortium agreed on several key points:

1- The songs promoted should reflect the heart and efforts of human creators.

2- The integrity of the songwriting and pitching process must remain beyond reproach, applying equally to both music and lyrics.

3- The intended use of AI is never to create the lyric or melody itself, but rather to provide a demonstration of what the original song sounds like.

4- To alleviate concerns artists may have regarding the originality of the songs submitted for their consideration, the publishers are willing to provide a signed statement with each submission, affirming its authenticity.

Furthermore, the publishers said they were committed to an on-going dialogue and education with the songwriters they represent regarding recognition of ethical boundaries.

Members of this committee are Rick Shelton of Daywind Music Publishing, Greg Bentley and Chris White of Crossroads / Chris White Music, Regi Stone and Randy Cox of Blank Slate Music, Joel Lindsey of Sunset Gallery Music and Dave Clark of Sunday Best Music.