How Google's TextFX Generative AI Solution Aims to Boost Songwriters' Chances of Creating Hits

The landscape of music creation is evolving, with AI carving an increasingly significant niche. Highlighting this trend, a new TuneCore study points out that over half of the indie artists are now AI-aware, and a noteworthy 27% have integrated AI-driven music tools into their creative repertoire.

Amidst this wave of tech adoption, we're particularly enamored with one tool in particular: Google's TextFX .

For those yet to encounter it, Google TextFX is the offspring of a partnership between rapper Lupe Fiasco and the team at Google Lab Sessions. It taps into the advanced capabilities of Google's PaLM 2 via the PALM API, offering songwriters the ability to utilize generative AI to its highest creative capabilities.

?Here’s a closer look at TextFX’s ten distinctive features and functions:

• ?Simile: Create a simile about a thing or concept.
• Explode: Break a word into similar-sounding phrases.
• Unexpect: Make a scene more unexpected and imaginative.
• Chain: Build a chain of semantically related items.
• POV: Evaluate a topic through different points of view.
• Alliteration: Curate topic-specific words that start with a chosen letter.
• Acronym: Create an acronym using the letters of a word.
• Fuse: Find intersections between two things
• Scene: Generate sensory details about a scene.
• Unfold: Slot a word into other words or phrases.

Fusing Google's AI technology alongside creative songwriters, Fiasco and Google Lab Sessions have put in motion a future where songwriters can more effectively navigate the myriad depths of language, unlocking untapped potential. The hopeful result? More hits.

In essence, Google TextFX signifies a promising merging of AI and songwriting. However, as we tread this new path, implications on the bedrock of music copyright need thoughtful consideration . But our gut feeling? Google TextFX and its ilk are going to have a net positive impact on music creators. Share your thoughts with us by reaching out to [email protected].

Until Next Week,

Clayton Durant , Gabriella Raful , and Lauren Sanchez .

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Fast Facts: Data That Inspires??

• A recent study conducted at NYU Tandon School of Engineering used the MINDWATCH brain-monitoring technology to determine the effects of everyday pleasures like music and coffee on cognitive performance. The research found that subjects exhibited increased "beta band" brain wave activity, which is associated with peak cognitive performance, when they listened to music or drank coffee. Particularly notable was the significant performance boost observed when subjects listened to AI-generated music, suggesting the potential of such interventions during periods of acute stress or cognitive disengagement.

Fast Facts: Platforms & Technologies??

• YouTube is enhancing its short-form video platform, YouTube Shorts , by introducing new creative tools. The updates include the Collab tool, allowing creators to make split-screen Shorts alongside other YouTube videos. Additional effects, stickers, and a Q&A sticker have been added to foster audience engagement. The ability to reply to comments with Shorts and go live in the Shorts feed is being introduced, and creators can save Shorts to playlists. A recomposition tool will soon help transform horizontal videos into dynamic Shorts. YouTube Shorts has gained immense popularity, crossing 50 billion daily views, making it a pivotal avenue for creator growth and content awareness. Creators are encouraged to embrace this format by cross-posting existing short-form content or adapting longer videos for Shorts.
• TikTok has launched its Lifestyle Program , inviting eligible creators from the US and Canada to apply. The program, focused on creators involved in lifestyle content like fashion, cooking, education, and more, aims to enhance their content skills and follower base. Running from September 1st to November 30th, the program offers instructional programming, networking opportunities, and the chance to showcase content. Creators already enrolled in TikTok University can also apply, offering a dual education opportunity through the platform.
• Instagram has introduced updates aimed at enhancing user safety regarding direct messages (DMs) from non-connected accounts. These updates include restrictions on the number of DM requests from individuals not followed, allowing them to send multiple messages only after their chat request is accepted. Furthermore, DM invites are now limited to text content exclusively, so images, videos, or voice notes can be sent by users only after their chat request has been approved. These measures aim to provide users with increased protection from unwanted or inappropriate messages.
• X is preparing to introduce a feature that enables users to sort another person's posts on their profile, helping them find the most popular updates based on factors like likes and replies. The feature will allow sorting by "Most recent," "Most Liked," and "Most engaged with." X may consider adding more options in the future to better showcase users' top-performing posts. This functionality could be beneficial for creators aiming to attract more paying subscribers by displaying their best content. X has also introduced a 'Highlights' tab, initially available to X Blue (soon to be X Premium) subscribers, which will eventually be accessible to all users. While user profile visits are relatively infrequent, showcasing engaging content through these tabs could enhance overall platform activity. Although there's no official launch date, both features are anticipated to roll out soon.
• Apple Music has introduced a new Discovery Station feature , available on its mobile, desktop, and web apps, which aims to help users discover new songs based on their recent listening history. The station curates a selection of music that users haven't added to their library or heard before. It is found within the Listen Now section and works alongside the user's existing station that plays songs from their library. The feature is seen as Apple's response to Spotify's popular Discover Weekly playlist, offering users personalized recommendations to help them discover new music. Early reviews from users suggest that the Discovery Station is effective at suggesting music aligned with their tastes.
• TikTok has introduced a music contest named "Gimme the Mic," akin to TV talent shows like The Voice. The contest will be conducted through TikTok livestreams and will include live voting by fans. The contest comprises three segments: audition, semifinal, and grand finale. Aspiring musicians can submit a 30-second audition video with the hashtag #GIMMETHEMIC . Top 30 submissions will progress to the semifinal, performing in livestreamed events with fan voting. The US finale on September 10th will feature the top 10 performers, with one winner advancing to a global competition.

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Fast Facts: Brand Campaigns to Know

• Simon Cowell, known for his role in music reality shows, has partnered with Universal Music Group (UMG) to launch a new music publishing company called Syco Publishin g. This venture is a collaboration between Cowell's Syco Entertainment and UMG's Universal Music Publishing Group (UMPG). The new company will focus on signing and developing songwriters and catalogs, with the exclusive management provided by UMPG. The partnership aims to create opportunities for songwriters to collaborate across Cowell's media projects, and it already represents songwriters like Lucy Spraggan and John Samuel Gerhart, along with song catalog rights for artists like Fifth Harmony and James Arthur.
• Pepsi has launched the "Press Play On Summer" campaign in partnership with global music star Bad Bunny. This campaign offers consumers who purchase select PepsiCo soft drink bottles the opportunity to scan a QR code to unlock three months of free Apple Music. The campaign features a 90-second commercial with Bad Bunny set to his song "Where She Goes," portraying him as a lifeguard controlling pool-goers' choreography with a Pepsi bottle. The campaign aims to capitalize on the strong connection between Pepsi and music culture during the summer season, aligning with consumers' music consumption habits. The partnership with Apple Music taps into the platform's popularity and leverages QR code-enabled packaging for touchless experiences.
• Atlanta rapper Latto has teamed up with Sprite for the "Icon's Delight" campaign to celebrate the 50th anniversary of Hip Hop music and culture. The campaign features Latto collaborating with legendary rapper Rakim to put their spin on classic tracks like "Rapper’s Delight" and "Don’t Sweat The Technique," as well as Latto's own hit "Big Energy." Sprite has a history of partnering with music legends, including Rakim in previous campaigns. Latto has been achieving milestones as an independent artist, such as topping the Billboard Hot 100 with her collaboration "Seven." The anticipation is high for the release of the full video of the collaboration on August 18.

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Fast Facts: Music News to Know

• Bravado, Universal Music Group's prominent music merchandise and brand management company, has teamed up with Redibra, a leading brand licensing and extension agency in Brazil. This partnership aims to capitalize on the growing trend of fans seeking deeper connections with their favorite artists through merchandise and experiences . Redibra's expertise in translating fandom into tangible products and retail experiences aligns with Bravado's vision. Together, they plan to enhance the fan experience, offering opportunities for engagement with beloved music artists. Both companies intend to create products and experiences that cater to Brazil's passionate music fan base. The collaboration aims to elevate the connection between fans and artists in this vibrant music community.
• Loudly, a groundbreaking AI music creation platform, has introduced its AI Music Generator, providing music enthusiasts, artists, and content creators with a tool to produce captivating music and soundscapes. With a vast catalog of 200,000 professionally produced audio samples and its advanced AI technology, Loudly enables users to experiment with various musical genres and moods, generating high-quality tracks . Central to Loudly's innovation is its AI Music Engine, capable of creating over a billion musical variations across 12 genres by utilizing a bank of expertly produced samples and stems. The platform allows users to design unique compositions through an intuitive interface, even blending genres, and has already garnered substantial growth during its beta phase. CEO Rory Kenny emphasizes the platform's aim to democratize music creation and transform public engagement with music.
• BandLab Technologies, a music creation company based in Singapore, has become the first music creation platform to officially support the Human Artistry Campaign (HAC). HAC is an alliance of over 150 organizations that aims to ensure that generative AI supports human creativity in an ethical and responsible manner. BandLab Technologies relies on AI to assist users of its music-making platforms, and the company's CEO, Meng Ru Kuok, emphasized their commitment to ethical AI practices and empowering new creators through technology. The support for HAC aligns with BandLab's dedication to ethical AI training and development that enhances human expression and innovation.
• Round Hill Music Royalty Fund (RHM) has acquired the remaining share of the music publishing rights catalog of Big Loud Shirt Industries, making its ownership of the country music catalog 100%. RHM has also acquired 50% of the writer’s income streams from Big Loud Shirt Industries’ founder, country music songwriter, and producer Craig Wiseman. The acquisition includes over 1,200 country hits performed by artists like Blake Shelton, Carrie Underwood, Dierks Bentley, Faith Hill, Luke Bryan, and Tim McGraw. The deal expands RHM's exposure to the country music genre and adds valuable songs to its portfolio.

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Fast Facts: New Music to Listen To ?

• Ray of Solar – Swedish House Mafia: Swedish House Mafia, the electronic music trio of Steve Angello, Axwell, and Sebastian Ingrosso, has released their second major single of 2023 titled "Ray of Solar." The track, featuring contributions by Tove Burman, showcases a summer-y and euphoric vibe. The trio describes the song as a "summer record" that has a unique vocal combined with their signature style of writing melodies. This new single follows their recent release of "See The Light (feat. Friday)" and comes after the release of their expansive live album, "Paradise Again: The Live Album," which captures the success of their ambitious tour in support of the "Paradise Again" era. The trio has also announced upcoming live dates in various locations.
• Porches – REASON: Rapper REASON, signed to Top Dawg Entertainment, has announced the release of his sophomore album titled "Porches" on August 11. The album will feature guest appearances from artists including Doechii, SiR, Zacari, Ray Vaughn, Baby Tate, Junii, Kalan.FrFr, and more. Production credits include Boi-1da, Vinylz, Fierce, Hollywood Cole, Supah Mario, Coleman, Mike Hector, and DJ Swish. The album's theme revolves around love and understanding, with REASON explaining that it's about how people are all connected and go through similar trials and battles. This follows his debut album "New Beginnings" released in 2020, which featured collaborations with various artists including ScHoolboy Q, Ab-Soul, Vince Staples, and JID.
• Curly – Terrace Martin: Grammy-nominated artist and producer Terrace Martin has released his new project titled "Curly," the second in a series of six jazz albums planned for release in 2023 through the Sounds of Crenshaw / BMG partnership. Curly holds special significance as it represents the spirit of Martin's father, symbolizing courage, heart, and adventure. The album features references to Martin's career, including "How Much A Dollar Cost," a track from Kendrick Lamar's album, and "Valdez Off Crenshaw," a lead single with contributions from Kamasi Washington, Cory Henry, and Robert Sput Searight. Martin collaborates with a group of familiar and new talents to create a sound that evokes a sense of summer breeze and can be immersed in for hours.