AI-generated artists break through in country music

AI-generated singers are now ranking among the most-streamed country music artists in the United States, highlighting a growing trend in a genre some observers say has become increasingly formulaic.
Acts like Breaking Rust, Cain Walker, Aventhis and Outlaw Gospel share more than cowboy hats, denim and leather. They are entirely computer-generated, from their vocals to their melodies, yet they are producing hit songs.
“That’s a phenomenon I didn’t see coming”, said Jennie Hayes Kurtz of the band Brother and The Hayes, noting she once thought AI would be used for scientific breakthroughs rather than music.
Many AI-generated songs rely on classic country themes, particularly the lone cowboy, a rugged, reserved man who refuses to apologise for simply existing. The lyrics are delivered in gravelly voices that sound authentic.
For songwriters, the trend is concerning. Kassie Jordan of the duo Blue Honey said tools that generate songs from simple prompts could undermine credibility.
“We are starting to see a lot of people just putting words into these chatbots and it is writing songs for them”, she said. “As a songwriter, it’s kind of like, is anyone going to even think I really wrote this?”

Joe Bennett, a professor at Berklee College of Music, said many AI songs appear to be created from simple prompts. He said modern country music’s shift since the early 2000s towards a polished, pop-influenced sound with repeated melodic patterns has made it easier for AI to replicate.
Country music has staged a comeback in recent years after being overshadowed by rap and Latin music. A new generation of artists with pop influences has broadened its appeal, following the path of Taylor Swift. Artists such as Beyonce and Post Malone have also drawn new audiences through crossover projects.
Last year, Morgan Wallen and Zach Bryan were among the most streamed artists on Spotify, reflecting the genre’s revival.
However, some in the industry say the genre’s mainstream success has reduced its depth, making it easier to imitate.
“The lyrics aren’t as deep as they used to be”, Jordan said, adding that much of popular country music has become “shallow”, making it easier to duplicate.
Bennett said the industry should do more to identify AI-generated music, noting that Deezer is the only major streaming platform that clearly labels such content. He said there is growing demand for transparency.
Hayes Kurtz said some listeners may not care whether music is AI-generated, but dedicated fans who attend concerts and support artists value authenticity.
Jordan said she remains optimistic, pointing to a new wave of artists focused on traditional storytelling and emotional depth, which she believes will be harder for AI to replicate. — AFP