The 11th Carthage Music Days, currently underway, hosted a panel discussion titled "Artificial Intelligence and Music: Threat or Opportunity." The event brought together experts to examine the growing use of artificial intelligence in music production and its potential risks and benefits. The discussion highlighted the need to preserve Tunisia's cultural heritage and identity in the face of increasing AI-generated music.
According to recent statistics, 90,000 AI-generated music tracks were uploaded to a major music platform in June 2026, marking a nine-fold increase from January 2025. However, despite this surge in AI-generated content, only 1-3% of users listened to these tracks. This raises questions about the impact of AI on the music industry and the potential consequences for human creators.
Experts noted that Tunisia's music scene is still relatively untouched by AI, but this lack of representation poses a risk to the country's cultural identity. If AI-generated music becomes more prevalent, there is a danger that traditional Tunisian music could be misrepresented or lost. To mitigate this risk, participants emphasized the need for a comprehensive initiative to integrate Tunisian culture into AI platforms.
Ziad El Mouedeb El Hamroni, a university professor and multidisciplinary artist, stressed the importance of collaboration between technology experts, cultural specialists, and musicians to develop AI that respects and preserves Tunisian cultural heritage. He cited the Finnish "Elements of AI" program as a model for responsible AI development and education.
Sami Ben Said, a musician and director of the Carthage Music Days, noted that while AI can produce high-quality music at a lower cost, it lacks the emotional depth and authenticity of human creativity. He also highlighted the need for clearer regulations and laws regarding intellectual property rights in the context of AI-generated music.
The panel discussion also touched on the economic implications of AI in the music industry. According to the International Confederation of Authors and Composers Societies, up to 60% of music library revenue could go to AI platforms by 2028. This shift raises concerns about the future of human creators and the value of their work.
The 11th Carthage Music Days will continue until October 10, featuring a range of cultural events, panel discussions, and musical performances. The festival aims to promote Tunisian culture and provide a platform for artists to showcase their work. As the music industry continues to evolve, events like this highlight the importance of balancing innovation with cultural preservation.
Key points
- The 11th Carthage Music Days emphasizes the need to preserve Tunisia's cultural identity in the face of increasing AI-generated music.
- Experts stress the importance of collaboration between technology experts, cultural specialists, and musicians to develop AI that respects and preserves Tunisian cultural heritage.
- The festival highlights the economic implications of AI in the music industry, including the potential shift in revenue to AI platforms.
