Madonna: AI and algorithms kill creativity

Pop superstar Madonna has voiced strong criticism against artificial intelligence and algorithms, asserting that their use is fundamentally at odds with the creation of art. In a recent interview with Vogue Italia, she declared that relying on AI is the "complete opposite of creating art."

“

Relying on AI is the complete opposite of creating art.

Madonna reminisced about a time when artists were surrounded by a diverse group of creatives, fostering an environment of genuine, shared artistic expression. "You used to be surrounded by painters, musicians, dancers, and artists in one place, and you all created from a very sincere and pure impulse, for each other," she said. This contrasts sharply with today's industry, where securing a record deal often hinges on follower numbers rather than artistic merit. "Now, to get a record deal, the first thing they look at is how many followers you have," Madonna observed.

“

You used to be surrounded by painters, musicians, dancers, and artists in one place, and you all created from a very sincere and pure impulse, for each other.

She explained her sentiment through her song "Bring Your Love," where she sings, "So in that song I say: 'Don't try to distract me with numbers.'" For Madonna, her artistic journey began without concern for charts or streaming numbers. She believes algorithms and AI stifle risk-taking, which she equates to stifling art itself. To find inspiration for her new music, Madonna deliberately distances herself from technology and social media. "Lately, it's been hard because of working on the album and everything that goes with it. But I like to take a break... and disappear. That's how you feed your imagination," she stated. She added, "You need peace and days when you are connected only to nature, your children, and your horses."

“

Now, to get a record deal, the first thing they look at is how many followers you have.

This is not Madonna's first public critique of modern technology's influence. Previously, during a Q&A for her film "Confessions II – The Film," she highlighted social media's role in creating a "constant need" for people to document their lives. She urged the audience, "Put down those damn phones and connect with each other."

“

So in that song I say: 'Don't try to distract me with numbers.'