National Poll Reveals Americans' Perspectives on AI's Role in Music Creation

A National Poll on AI's Influence in Music

In a recent survey conducted by The Hollywood Reporter (THR) in collaboration with the Frost School of Music at the University of Miami, the complexities surrounding the intersection of artificial intelligence (AI) and the music industry were brought to light. This poll highlights the diverse opinions held by American citizens regarding the future of music in an increasingly AI-driven landscape.

Poll Findings: Skepticism Toward AI Music Creation

A striking 52% of those surveyed expressed disinterest in AI-generated music, even if it were produced by their favorite artists. This finding indicates a strong degree of skepticism among the populace. Interestingly, about 66% of respondents admitted to never having listened to music created by AI. The poll, executed via Morning Consult between October 9 and 14, 2025, sampled 2,244 adults from various demographic backgrounds.

Dean Shelton "Shelly" G. Berg, Dean of the Frost School, emphasized that perceptions of AI in music creation are influencing the industry profoundly. "It's still early days for understanding AI's full impact, but what’s becoming clear is that it raises important questions about the essence of creativity and fair compensation for artists," he stated.

Views on Artist Compensation and AI Usage

According to the data, 62% of participants believe artists should seek permission before replicating someone's voice using AI technology. Meanwhile, responses varied significantly across different generations. Baby boomers were particularly resistant, with 75% stating AI requires human oversight in music creation. Conversely, younger generations displayed a greater acceptance, with 30% of Gen Z respondents advocating for AI's independent role in music production.

In terms of compensation, 58% of baby boomers support paying original artists when their styles are mimicked in AI-generated works. This figure declines among younger groups, highlighting a generational divide on the issue. Interestingly, a majority of Gen Z respondents (52%) expressed willingness to pay more for concert tickets if those funds were directly aiding the artists.

Changing Music Discovery Trends

As the poll examined how listeners discover new music, it revealed that social media is a key platform, with 45% of respondents utilizing it for music recommendations. Traditional media like radio remains significant, influencing 44% of those surveyed. In an age where streaming services dominate, these findings suggest a shift toward digital-first music discovery.

The most favored genre remains rock, with 22% of respondents citing it as their favorite, followed by country (16%) and rap/hip-hop (14%). Notably, both Democrats and Republicans share a preference for rock, though they differ in their secondary genre choices.

Implications for Music Education

The Frost School of Music is committed to equipping its students for a future that embraces technological advancements while cherishing the emotional connectivity of music. Dean Berg accentuates the importance of a holistic education that encompasses traditional musical skills alongside modern business acumen.

"In a constantly evolving industry, our graduates—known as 'Frost Built'—are trained to navigate the intricacies of entrepreneurship, marketing, and technology. They’re not just musicians; they’re prepared to be leaders in a rapidly changing landscape," Berg asserts.

This survey provides pivotal insights into the pressures and choices currently impacting both artists and listeners, ultimately defining the trajectory of the music industry amidst the rise of AI.

Conclusion

In summation, as the landscape of music continues to evolve, the convergence of technology and artistry poses both challenges and opportunities. The strong opinions voiced in the THR and Frost School of Music poll highlight a need for ongoing dialogue about the balance between AI's potential and the irreplaceable value of human creativity in the music realm. Music educators, artists, and industry stakeholders must work collaboratively to shape a future that honors both innovation and tradition.