I watched a video by Rick Beato on YouTube this morning that once again brought up in my mind that the future of music may not involve singers and players like me. Rick is about my age, and he has been in the music business at a top level for all his life and knows what he’s talking about. I believe that music is a gift, and I’ve always felt that it was my purpose to use it for the benefit of those around me in whatever way I could. That sounds high-minded for sure, but it’s a joy to be in service to something bigger than myself. This morning I realized that people like me probably won’t be necessary to write music and probably perform it very soon. If you watch this video (https://youtu.be/JSswFa8Ta1k?si=4ttepIuMsZTYp_ZT) where Rick Beato plays some current AI music created from simple prompts or descriptions of what each song should be, you will see that the quality of the recordings and even the chord structure and lyrics are so close to what is currently popular that it is astounding. He concludes by saying that people won’t be able to hear the difference and won’t mind listening to this AI-generated music. I would say the same thing after I listened to it. Some of the chord progressions and lyrics were more clever almost randomly than what current songwriters come up with for pop and country songs. Of course this is not a live performance by a live person, but if in the future it isn’t necessary for a song to be written and recorded by a real person, then will there be anyone trying to perform them live anymore? I would hope that AI would be a tool to inspire and work out tough passages for musicians instead of a way for non-musicians to create music, but it sure doesn’t look like we’re headed that way. And of course writing and art are following similar paths. The creative arts that have made the books, songs, and artwork that we have cherished for centuries may no longer be an expression of our culture and our dreams and struggles that is created by people. It boggles my mind to think of it. How about you? Listen to the video above and tell me what you think.
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What have I been up to?
I had 9 senior facilities last week, but 1 outdoor show had to be rescheduled for weather since we had a storm come in on the weekend. I enjoyed playing Spring songs for my facilities, and they really enjoyed them.
My Wednesday online show was Spring songs, and it was honestly a lot of fun. There were some great requests, and I know the audience loved the thoughts and songs about Spring.
My Sunday online show was favorites and requests as always, and what a nice night it was with lots of great requests and a new song or two. This group of Munch Bunchers as they call themselves is so supportive and sincere. It’s a pleasure to know them and play for them.
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What am I up to this week?
I have 9 senior facilities this week, and I’m sure I’ll be playing more Spring songs including rain and flower songs. This is just a great time of the year with all the new growth and excitement in nature all around us.
My Wednesday online show 7-8:45 mountain time will be songs from 60 years ago this time - 1965. I love songs from this year including songs from the Beatles, The Rolling Stones, the Sound of Music, and Roger Miller just to name a few. I’ll probably write in my blog about 1965 next week to talk more about this great year in music. It will be a really fun evening, and I’d love to have you in the audience.
Friday night 6-9 I’ll be back at the Garden of the Gods Club in the Grand View restaurant playing instrumental guitar tunes. Take note that I’m playing a half hour later now that the sun goes down later with the time change and the days growing longer. I’d love to have you if this sounds good to you. Reservations are at 888-994-3156 or you can usually sit at the bar or the small table near me in the bar.
My Sunday online show 7-8:45 mountain time will be favorites and requests as always, and it’s always a good night of wonderful songs and good camaraderie. These nights are very special to me. Come on out if you can.
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That’s it for this week. I know it has been a tense time for a lot of folks with the volatility in the world and the markets, but I hope you are doing well and are healthy.
Best always,
Tom
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Details this week:
Who: Tom Munch
What: playing and singing an online concert of 1965 songs
Where: facebook.com/tom.munch and tommunch.com/online-concerts
When: Wednesday, April 9, 7-8:45 pm mountain time
Who: Tom Munch
What: playing instrumental guitar tunes
Where: Garden of the Gods Resort and Club in the Grand View Restaurant. 888-994-3156
When: Friday, April 11, 6-9 pm
Who: Tom Munch
What: playing and singing an online concert of favorites and requests
Where: facebook.com/tom.munch and tommunch.com/online-concerts
When: Sunday, April 13, 7-8:45 pm mountain time
