In an ambitious move to transcend cultural barriers through music, the celebrated composer AR Rahman introduced a groundbreaking initiative in Dubai. His latest venture, unveiled at the “Abundance For The Future by SWFI” event, is a testament to the power of digital innovation in forging global connections. Rahman’s project, known as the metahumans project, features a band of six virtual musicians, each embodying diverse cultural identities from around the world. This virtual ensemble is not just a showcase of technological prowess but a vibrant symbol of unity, aiming to celebrate the rich tapestry of global cultures.
AR Rahman, a visionary in the music industry, has taken on the role of content and creative director for this unique band. The virtual members, represented through Synthetic Avatars, are a blend of artistry and advanced technology, utilizing cutting-edge visual effects and motion capture to bring them to life. This innovative approach allows for a seamless integration of the virtual and real worlds, creating an immersive musical experience that transcends traditional boundaries.
The genesis of Rahman’s metahumans project is rooted in a desire to foster a sense of global unity. By bringing together virtual musicians that represent different cultures, Rahman aims to highlight the common humanity that binds us all, moving beyond the divisions that often separate us. This noble aspiration is supported by The HBAR Foundation, a leading entity in the web3 ecosystem, which backs projects that leverage technology to create positive social impact. Additional technology partners are expected to join this venture, further amplifying its reach and influence.
Rahman’s foray into the realm of virtual musicians is not his first encounter with cutting-edge technology in music. He recently made headlines for utilizing AI software to recreate the voices of the late singers Bamba Bakya and Shahul Hameed for a track in the film ‘Lal Salaam’, starring veteran actor Rajinikanth. This innovative approach sparked a debate about the ethical implications of using technology to resurrect the voices of deceased artists. Critics and supporters alike weighed in, questioning the morality and integrity of such endeavors.
Addressing the controversy, Rahman took to social media to clarify his position. He emphasized that the project was undertaken with the full consent and blessing of Bakya’s and Hameed’s families. Moreover, he assured that fair compensation was provided to the families in recognition of their loved ones’ contributions. Through his statement, Rahman underscored his belief in the potential of technology to honor the past and celebrate legacy, rather than serving as a disruptive force. He advocated for a respectful and ethical use of technological advancements, aligning with his broader vision of leveraging innovation for positive societal impact.
Bamba Bakya, one of the voices resurrected through AI, was a talent gone too soon, having passed away in September 2022 at the age of 42. Bakya lent his voice to several memorable tracks, including ‘Ponni Nadhi’ from Mani Ratnam’s ‘Ponniyin Selvan’, and songs from popular films such as Rajinikanth’s ‘2.0’ and Vijay’s ‘Bigil’. The decision to bring his voice back for ‘Lal Salaam’ was a tribute to his lasting impact on the music industry, a gesture that resonated with many, despite the surrounding controversy.
The metahumans project by AR Rahman is a bold step into the future of music, where digital and real worlds converge to create a universal language of unity. Through this initiative, Rahman continues to push the boundaries of what is possible in music, embracing technological innovations to bridge cultures and celebrate diversity. As the project unfolds, with the promise of additional partners and technological advancements, it stands as a beacon of hope for a more interconnected and harmonious world. Through the universal power of music, Rahman’s virtual band of metahumans aims to inspire and unite, demonstrating that despite our differences, we are all part of one human family.