Veteran Punjabi singer Malkit Singh recently shared his insights on the rising influence of artificial intelligence in the music industry.
Human Voice vs. Artificial Intelligence
In an exclusive interview, Malkit discussed how technology may continue to advance, but the essence of a real human voice is irreplaceable. He emphasized the magic of live performances, stating that while AI can aid in music creation, the connection between an artist and the audience is profoundly human.
When asked if AI poses a threat to artists, Malkit Singh remarked that although technology will evolve, nothing can replace the human voice. He articulated, “Not really. Technology will evolve, but the voice is God’s gift. AI can create music, but it can’t perform live on stage. When an artist stands in front of an audience, the real voice matters. Music can be taught, instruments can be taught, but the voice is divine.”
The Shift in Music Consumption
Reflecting on today’s fast-paced digital world, Singh acknowledged that the rapid viral nature of songs makes long-form musical storytelling increasingly challenging. He reminisced about the days of cassettes and CDs, when music had a longer shelf life and artists held a lasting place in listeners’ hearts.
He observed, “Earlier we had cassettes and CDs. Now, everything is digital and fast. People forget the artist within days. But timeless songs remain. We were lucky to experience that golden era; those songs are still loved today.”
Punjabi Music’s Dominance
Malkit Singh also addressed the growing prominence of Punjabi music in Bollywood. He noted that Punjabi tracks resonate with listeners due to their infectious beats and high energy. The ‘Gur Nalo Ishq Mitha’ singer remarked that even during his performances in Europe, audiences joyfully repeat Punjabi phrases, showcasing the genre’s universal appeal.
He explained, “Punjabi music connects with people instantly because of its beat and energy. Even if you don’t understand the words, you can dance to it. Classical music is beautiful, but it can feel heavy for many listeners. Punjabi songs are simple, catchy, and easy to sing along. Even when I perform for European audiences, they repeat Punjabi phrases joyfully.”