Just ‘hum’ and make your song? YouTube tests AI tools for music creation

YouTube, Google-owned video-sharing platform, has announced its experimentation with novel generative AI features that empower users to create music tracks using text prompts or simple hummed melodies. This initiative marks a significant step forward in the integration of AI into music creation and underscores YouTube's commitment to fostering innovation in the realm of music production.

At the heart of YouTube's AI music endeavour lies Dream Track, an experiment within YouTube Shorts that leverages Google DeepMind's advanced music generation model, Lyria. With Dream Track, users can transform their creative ideas into musical compositions simply by providing a text description or humming a tune.

Collaboration with renowned artists

To further explore the potential of AI in music creation, YouTube has enlisted the participation of nine renowned artists, including Alec Benjamin, Charlie Puth, Charli XCX, Demi Lovato, John Legend, Papoose, Sia, T-Pain, and Troye Sivan. These artists will collaborate with YouTube in shaping the future of AI-powered music production, providing valuable insights and feedback.

AI tools for music creation from hummed tunes

In addition to Dream Track, YouTube is also trialing AI tools capable of generating music tracks based on a simple hummed melody. These tools hold the potential to revolutionise music creation, enabling individuals without formal musical training to produce their own songs.

YouTube is debuting Dream Track

It's a tool that allows you to type in an idea, and get a unique soundtrack generated for your Short, using the AI-generated voices of participating artists (like Charlie Puth & John Legend)

They are embedding inaudible watermarks into the AI… pic.twitter.com/XqEtHy7XNK

— Roberto Nickson (@rpnickson) November 16, 2023

New rules for AI content

To address the growing use of generative AI in video creation, YouTube is introducing new rules that require creators to disclose whether they have employed AI tools to produce realistic-looking videos. This measure aims to ensure transparency and prevent the spread of misinformation.

Creators who fail to adhere to these new rules may face penalties, including content removal or suspension from YouTube's revenue-sharing programme. These penalties underscore YouTube's commitment to maintaining the integrity of its platform and protecting its users from potential AI-generated manipulation.

YouTube's foray into AI-powered music creation and its implementation of new rules for AI content exemplify the company's dedication to innovation and its focus on fostering a responsible AI ecosystem. As AI continues to evolve, YouTube remains at the forefront of exploring its potential to enhance the creative process and empower users to express themselves through music.