Edriisa Musuuza, popularly known as Eddy Kenzo and the President of the Uganda National Musicians Federation (UNMF), has voiced his perspective on the ethical implications surrounding the use of artificial intelligence (AI) to replicate the late singer Mowzey Radio’s voice. Kenzo emphasizes the importance of obtaining proper consent from the deceased artist’s family and ensuring fair compensation for the use of his vocal tone.
In a recent interview, Kenzo underscored the necessity of obtaining consent from the family of deceased artists before utilizing their voices in AI-generated projects. He contends that while the use of AI in the music industry presents innovative opportunities, it is imperative to recognize the ethical implications of replicating someone’s voice posthumously.
Kenzo advocates for a system wherein artists using AI technology to recreate voices, including his own, should seek permission from either the artist themselves or their family members. Additionally, he stresses the importance of establishing clear arrangements for compensating the family for the use of their loved one’s voice, ensuring that they benefit from the project’s proceeds.
The “Stamina” hitmaker echoes sentiments expressed by fellow artists, such as Kalifah AgaNaga, who have urged individuals leveraging Mowzey Radio’s legacy for their own gain to give back to his family. Kenzo’s stance reflects a broader commitment within the music industry to uphold ethical standards and ensure that artists’ legacies are respected and honored.
Ultimately, Kenzo’s advocacy underscores the need for transparency, respect, and fair compensation in the utilization of AI technology within the music industry. By prioritizing consent and compensation for artists and their families, the industry can uphold ethical principles while fostering innovation and creativity in the digital age.