AR Rahman criticizes remix culture and AI misuse in music industry

Oscar-winning composer AR Rahman has voiced strong disapproval of the rising trend of remixes and reimagined songs, a phenomenon that has taken hold in Indian music since the late '90s and recently broadened to include songs only a few years old.

In a candid interview with The Week, Rahman expressed concern over this practice, emphasizing that using someone’s work without permission for commercial gain is disrespectful. "You can’t take a song from a movie and use it in another one six years later, calling it reimagined," he stated.

Also read: Diljit Dosanjh seeks blessings at Bangla Sahib Gurudwara before Delhi concert

Rahman noted that while he doesn’t object to fans sharing reimagined versions on social media, commercializing these remakes without consent crosses ethical boundaries. His iconic track “Humma Humma” from the 1995 film Bombay, which was remixed as "The Humma Song" in OK Jaanu (2017), remains a notable example. Ironically, Rahman composed the score for OK Jaanu but wasn’t involved in the remix.

Beyond remixes, Rahman raised alarms about the misuse of artificial intelligence (AI) in music. Labeling AI as a potential “evil” in the industry, he warned that AI-generated compositions that mimic original styles without compensation to the composers could lead to widespread job losses and ethical concerns.

The composer’s recent work includes scores for Raayan and Amar Singh Chamkila, both well-received, and he has upcoming projects like Chhava and Thug Life.