Kenyan dancehall music Swabri Mohammed, popularly known as Redsan, has questioned the originality of modern music, raising concerns about artificial intelligence taking over on music.
Redsan described his creative process, saying he begins with an idea before translating it directly onto paper. He expressed his concern that the current wave of productions often leans too heavily on borrowed styles and recycled beats.
“Someone could get brain fog and they’d go online to look for a rhyme. That’s not originality; that’s someone else’s mind that you’ve just copied,” Redsan said.
He argued that technology has made music creation more accessible offering shortcuts for people involved in creative work, blurring lines between authentic artistry and imitation. He noted that AI tools can now assist with writing, production, mixing and even generating music to a person’s voice.
He addressed the pressure created by viral platforms such as TikTok, where music gains attention and creates expectations for an immediate follow-up, cautioning younger musicians risk losing their distinctiveness if they rely solely on trends rather than cultivating fresh ideas.
Redsan has long been credited with his music in dancehall inspiring other musicians. He has called for originality that serves as an impactful force in society, preserving the authenticity of music.
