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Malkit Singh on AI in Music: Why the Human Voice Remains "God's Gift"

Punjabi music legend Malkit Singh isn't worried about AI taking over the industry. He believes technology can assist, but the human voice is a divine gift that connects emotionally with an audience. Singh also reflects on how the fast-paced digital world makes it harder for songs to last compared to the cassette era. He credits the instant, energetic appeal of Punjabi beats for the genre's current dominance in Bollywood and its popularity worldwide.

Key Points: Malkit Singh Says AI Can't Replace Human Voice in Music

  • Veteran singer asserts AI cannot replicate the soul of a live human performance
  • He reflects on how digital speed has shortened music's shelf life compared to cassettes
  • Singh explains Punjabi music's global appeal lies in its energetic and catchy beats
  • The artist believes timeless songs from the golden era continue to resonate with audiences
2 min read

Singer Malkit Singh opens up about AI and its growing impact on the music world

Veteran singer Malkit Singh shares his views on AI's role in music, the digital era's impact, and why Punjabi songs dominate Bollywood today.

"“Technology will evolve, but the voice is God’s gift. AI can create music, but it can’t perform live on stage.” - Malkit Singh"

Mumbai, Dec 15

Veteran Punjabi singer Malkit Singh has shared his thoughts on the growing influence of artificial intelligence in the music industry.

In an exclusive interview with IANS, he spoke about how technology may continue to evolve but can never replace the essence of a real human voice. Emphasizing the magic of live performances, Malkit highlighted that while AI can assist in creating music, the soul and emotion that connect an artist to the audience remain deeply human.

When asked whether the rise of artificial intelligence in music poses a threat to artists, Malkit Singh responded that while technology will continue to evolve, the human voice remains irreplaceable. He stated, “Not really. Technology will evolve, but the voice is God’s gift. AI can create music, but it can’t perform live on stage. When an artist stands in front of an audience, the real voice matters. Music can be taught, instruments can be taught, but the voice is divine.”

Speaking about how today’s digital world pushes songs to go viral within seconds, Singh agreed that long-form musical storytelling has become more challenging. He reflected on the earlier days of cassettes and CDs, when music had a longer shelf life and artists stayed in listeners’ hearts for years.

The ‘Tutak Tutak Tutiya’ singer expressed, “Earlier we had cassettes and CDs. Now, everything is digital and fast. People forget the artist within days. But timeless songs remain. We were lucky to experience that golden era; those songs are still loved today.”

Malkit Singh also spoke about how Punjabi music appears to dominate Bollywood today. He explained that Punjabi music connects with listeners instantly because of its infectious beats and high energy. The ‘Gur Nalo Ishq Mitha’ singer added that even during his performances for European audiences, people enthusiastically repeat Punjabi phrases, showcasing the genre’s universal appeal.

“Punjabi music connects with people instantly because of its beat and energy. Even if you don’t understand the words, you can dance to it. Classical music is beautiful, but it can feel heavy for many listeners. Punjabi songs are simple, catchy, and easy to sing along. Even when I perform for European audiences, they repeat Punjabi phrases joyfully,” explained Malkit.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

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Priya S
While I respect his views, I think he's underestimating AI's potential. It's already helping indie artists compose and produce. The challenge is to use it as a tool, not see it as a replacement. The magic of live performance will always be there, but AI can open new doors for creativity.
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Vikram M
Totally agree about the digital age making us forget artists quickly. Back in the 90s, we waited for the Friday film release to hear the songs on radio. Today's reels and shorts... a song is viral for 2 days then gone. The 'golden era' he mentions was something else. Nostalgic!
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Sarah B
His point about Punjabi music's universal appeal is so true! I'm not Indian, but I love the energy. You don't need to know the language to enjoy the rhythm. It's fascinating how music transcends borders. AI could never create that genuine cultural connection.
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Rohit P
Legend! "Tutak Tutak" is still played at every wedding. That's the shelf life he's talking about. Today's tracks are catchy but forgettable. AI might make production easier, but it can't give you 30 years of legacy. The voice is indeed a divine gift. 🎤
K
Kavya N
As a musician, I find his perspective balanced. AI is a fantastic assistant for mixing, mastering, even generating ideas. But the core—the *sur*, the *taal*, the emotion—comes from within. We shouldn't fear technology, but we must protect the human essence of art. Well said

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