‘Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree’ gets a Spanish Twist Powered by Advanced AI
Universal Music Group (UMG) and SoundLabs have ushered in a new era of music by releasing “Noche Buena y Navidad,” a Spanish-language AI adaptation of the 1958 holiday classic “Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree.” The project used SoundLabs’ MicDrop technology to create an AI-generated version of Brenda Lee’s vocals, mimicking her original 13-year-old performance. Chilean vocalist Leyla Hoyle recorded the Spanish lyrics while mirroring Lee’s phrasing, which was then transformed into Lee’s voice through AI and seamlessly blended with the original music. Brenda Lee, now 79, fully endorsed the project, calling it a groundbreaking way to reintroduce her beloved hit to a new audience.
The song represents the first release under a strategic partnership between UMG and SoundLabs, aimed at enabling artists to transform their vocal data into high-quality AI models. The initiative, according to an article in fastcompany.com, demonstrates how AI can expand the reach of classic music, with SoundLabs founder BT calling the project a “showcase” of MicDrop’s capabilities. This partnership signals the start of more such ventures, with UMG already exploring additional AI collaborations to modernize and globalize its catalog.
AI-generated music, like “Noche Buena y Navidad,” reflects the music industry’s evolving stance on emerging technologies. While embracing tools like SoundLabs’ AI platform to enhance creativity, major players like UMG are also working to ensure artists retain control over their voices and creations. This dual approach includes supporting legislative measures that protect artists’ rights while promoting partnerships with tech companies that align with these principles.
Industry leaders, including Recording Academy CEO Harvey Mason Jr., emphasize the importance of balancing innovation with advocacy for human creators. By giving artists tools like AI voice generators, the music industry is fostering new artistic possibilities while safeguarding traditional catalogs. “Noche Buena y Navidad” serves as an example of how AI can harmonize with creativity, introducing timeless classics to new audiences and languages while maintaining the integrity of the original works.
read more at fastcompany.com
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