Timbaland ignited a firestorm online after unveiling a music video featuring his AI-generated artist TaTa Taktumi, whose lyrics and cultural portrayal have drawn widespread criticism.
The super producer dropped the video through his AI-centered company StageZero despite facing backlash after introducing TaTa Taktumi in June. In an interview with Variety last month, Timbaland defended the project and insisted itās more human than people assume. The backlash follows Timbalandās earlier AI ventures, including the launch of StageZero, which focuses on AI-driven entertainment. The company has partnered with Suno, a music platform currently being sued by the Recording Industry Association of America for alleged copyright violations, according to NBC News.
Despite the criticism, Timbaland continues to champion AI as a creative tool rather than a replacement for human artistry. āI donāt generate music like that because you still need the human element. I just use it to enhance other aspects of my music,ā he told Variety.