Podcast Explores AI’s Role in Music Industry and Artist Success

Episode 276 of the podcast Your Morning Coffee, hosted by Jay Gilbert and Mike Etchart, delves into the evolving landscape of the music industry, focusing on the rise of artificial intelligence (AI) in music creation. Released on November 17, 2025, this episode addresses the growing influence of AI artists while highlighting the achievements of independent musicians.

One key discussion point centers on the notion that while AI-generated music is making its way onto the charts, its popularity remains limited. The episode notes that AI artists might not yet resonate with audiences, raising questions about their long-term place in the industry. For instance, a recent study revealed that approximately 50,000 AI tracks are being added to Deezer every day. Incredibly, 97% of listeners participating in the study reported they could not distinguish between human-made music and tracks generated by AI.

In contrast to AI’s creeping presence in the industry, the podcast also shines a spotlight on independent artist Nic D, who has achieved a remarkable milestone of 1 billion streams. Mike Etchart elaborates on the strategies that have led to this success, showcasing how independent musicians can thrive in a competitive environment. This juxtaposition of AI’s artificiality with the authenticity of human artistry presents a compelling narrative for listeners.

The episode also features insights from notable industry figures such as Chris Nolte, COO and Co-founder of Duetti, and Rick Beato, who shares his thoughts on the impact of AI artists on mainstream charts. Additionally, Eliah Seton, CEO of SoundCloud, provides his perspective on how platforms are adapting to the influx of AI-generated content and supporting human artists.

Listeners can engage with these discussions by tuning into the episode and exploring further through the Your Morning Coffee newsletter, which offers curated content aimed at those involved in the music business.

As AI continues to shape the music landscape, the conversations initiated in this podcast episode are crucial for understanding the balance between technology and human creativity in the evolving music industry.