Story perspectives

SZA Warns: AI Threatens Black Music's Authenticity and Impact

3/7/2026

Summary

Story summary

Solána Imani Rowe, known as SZA, told i-D Magazine that AI poses an existential crisis for Black music.
She said AI-generated music disproportionately affects Black artists.
Rowe described AI as producing "weird, stereotypical struggle music" that undermines Olivia Dean.
Rowe raised alarms about the environmental impact of AI data centers on Black and Brown communities.
She aims to preserve human creativity in her music and emphasize authentic artistic expression.

History

Historical Context

The rise of AI in music production has intensified discussions about authenticity and representation, particularly for marginalized communities. In 2021, the Recording Academy revealed that Black artists made up only 13% of Grammy nominees, underscoring systemic inequities. As technology evolves, concerns grow that AI may homogenize artistic expression, threatening the diversity and environmental integrity of the music landscape.

1 of 2

Story summary

Solána Imani Rowe, known as SZA, told i-D Magazine that AI poses an existential crisis for Black music.
She said AI-generated music disproportionately affects Black artists.
Rowe described AI as producing "weird, stereotypical struggle music" that undermines Olivia Dean.
Rowe raised alarms about the environmental impact of AI data centers on Black and Brown communities.
She aims to preserve human creativity in her music and emphasize authentic artistic expression.

1 / 2