### Tech, AI, and Music Production: Perspectives from Web Summit 2025
During the recent Web Summit held in Lisbon, Apple Music co-head Ole Obermann and acclaimed Dutch DJ and producer Armin van Buuren engaged in an insightful dialogue regarding the revolutionary influence of technology on the music sector. Their exchange underscored the dual nature of innovation and the human element in defining the future of music.
#### The Golden Age of Music
Obermann, who previously participated in the summit as a ByteDance executive, conveyed a hopeful outlook for the music industry’s future, stating, “there is a golden era ahead of us.” He highlighted that technological advancements are broadening music accessibility, improving discovery avenues, and nurturing stronger bonds between artists and their fans.
#### The Impact of AI on Music Production
A considerable segment of the discussion centered on the incorporation of artificial intelligence in music creation. Van Buuren recounted his own experiences with AI tools, demonstrating their practical uses. He described a particular situation where he effectively transformed the voice of a male vocalist into that of a female vocalist using AI technology. This illustration showcases the creative possibilities that AI introduces into the artistic workflow.
#### Harmonizing Technology and Human Connection
In spite of the excitement surrounding technological progress, Obermann reminded attendees of the crucial human aspect in music creation. He emphasized that while technology can enrich the musical experience, it must not overshadow the creativity and genuineness that artists contribute to their art. Van Buuren supported this idea, warning against excessive dependence on technology that might compromise the artistic essence of music.
#### Apple Music’s Spatial Audio Innovation
Van Buuren also lauded Apple Music’s Spatial Audio technology, acknowledging its noteworthy impact on the quality of his recent album, *Piano*. The album features tracks that were recorded in one take, and the Spatial Audio enhancement significantly enriched the listening experience, illustrating how technology can enhance artistic creativity.
#### Conclusion
The conversation between Obermann and van Buuren at the Web Summit serves as a reminder of the changing dynamics within the music industry. As technology progresses, the challenge lies in striking a balance between innovation and the human touch that characterizes music as an artistic endeavor. For those keen on exploring these developments, Apple Music presents a subscription service that provides access to state-of-the-art features such as Spatial Audio.
