A new artificial intelligence–powered music award competition by the Ethiopian Artificial Intelligence Institute has drawn criticism from musicians and industry stakeholders, who warn it could disrupt creative work, threaten livelihoods and challenge existing copyright frameworks.
The competition invites participants to submit musical pieces lasting between two and five minutes, with at least 70 percent of the content generated by artificial intelligence. Organizers have framed the initiative as a way to promote technological innovation. Since its announcement, however, it has prompted debate across Ethiopia’s music sector.
Almight Tefera, a composer and instrumentalist, questioned the premise of AI-generated music, arguing that it differs fundamentally from human-created work in both process and outcome. He said the growing use of AI in music production could affect how artists develop skills and engage with creative expression, particularly if automated tools begin to replace traditional training and collaboration.
When considering the performance of a musical instrument, the emotional expression of a human and an artificial intelligence differ significantly, according to Almight.
“While an AI’s technical execution may be precise, it often lacks the nuanced emotional depth conveyed by a human performer. Fostering artificial emotional expression could lead to a generation less inclined to articulate its own genuine emotions,” he said. If an individual can generate music and substantial revenue within a minute, “it raises questions about the incentive for musicians to dedicate years to formal musical education or to collaborate with lyricists and composers,” he said, adding that this scenario could lead musicians to question the value of expressing their own emotions, potentially viewing it as a missed financial opportunity within a lucrative industry.
He believes such developments could severely impact musicians within the music industry, and it is imperative to address these concerns with a sustainable solution.
Serawit Fikru, a veteran music educator and head of Siderta Music School, also raised concerns about the broader implications for the profession. He said the increased reliance on AI tools in music creation could alter the role of musicians and reshape how music is produced and consumed.
While acknowledging that AI may be useful as a learning aid, he noted concerns about its use as a primary creative driver.
Dawit Yifru, president of the Ethiopian Music Sector Associations, said the competition could have structural implications for the industry. He pointed to the potential impact on a wide range of professionals, including songwriters, composers, instrumentalists and event organizers, whose work is tied to traditional production processes.
He also noted that existing copyright and related rights frameworks are built around human authorship, raising questions about how AI-generated works would be classified and protected.
The debate has also highlighted gaps in Ethiopia’s legal framework. Current copyright laws do not clearly address issues such as ownership of AI-generated content, eligibility for protection or the distribution of revenue derived from such works.
Zerubbabel Kibebe, an AI technology expert and chief executive of Be Gize Optimax, said the rapid expansion of AI applications is already affecting creative industries, including music. He noted that regulatory mechanisms have yet to keep pace with technological change, and that clearer legal frameworks may be required to address emerging challenges.
Attempts to reach officials at the Ethiopian Artificial Intelligence Institute, a public office, for comment were unsuccessful at the time of publication.
Artificial intelligence is significantly impacting human endeavours, particularly within the music industry, and presents a considerable challenge to musicians. He further stated, “While AI may not be entirely controllable, establishing legal frameworks could be beneficial in mitigating potential adverse effects,” Zerubbabel said.
