Related Articles
In today’s digital age, artificial intelligence (AI) is reshaping every facet of our lives.
From personalized product recommendations to AI-powered chatbots to self-driving cars, the influence of AI is undeniable. It’s no longer just shaping our experiences; it’s redefining them.
The music industry is not immune to the AI revolution. Whether it’s optimizing music production or tailoring playlists for individual tastes on platforms like Spotify and Apple Music, AI has changed dramatically how music is created and consumed.
As the CEO and co-founder of New Level Radio, a company dedicated to meticulously crafting music and messaging programs for businesses, I’ve witnessed the remarkable capabilities of AI firsthand. However, I still firmly believe in the irreplaceable power of human touch.
You see, music is more than just algorithms and data points; it’s about developing an atmosphere and eliciting emotion. And that’s where human curation truly excels. AI can never capture the feel and vibe of a casino floor on a Friday night. Our curators know the spaces they are working in and can dial in the specificity of each location.
A typical day for our music curators begins with addressing any urgent requests or changes. We prioritize real-time responsiveness, ensuring the music aligns with our clients’ vision and their guests’ preferences. Every playlist we produce is meticulously reviewed by a real, live person, not some chatbot or algorithm. We continuously fine-tune to maintain a fresh and relevant sound. In addition, researching new music is a constant undertaking, enabling us to provide cutting-edge ambiance at every property we work with.
When composing playlists specifically for casinos, we focus on the target audience and partner requests, recognizing that demographics and preferences can shift throughout the day. Daytime playlists for a casino in Las Vegas cater to an older crowd, incorporating classic rock, ’80s hits, yacht rock and Motown. Nighttime playlists at the same property, on the other hand, offer an opportunity to introduce modern, experimental and upbeat tracks. We’ll also align playlists with current events or concerts being held at a property, so if Garth Brooks is performing that night, you can be sure our playlists will have a country music theme.
A human curator intuitively understands these nuances, crafting playlists that enhance each space, not just fill it with sound. AI might analyze demographics and trends, but it cannot truly feel the room. This approach ensures a mood that complements each casino’s unique ambiance, engages the clientele and enhances their experience, enticing them to remain on the property longer and spend more.
The same applies to messaging. A well-timed, relevant announcement — professionally produced and played to a captive audience — can elevate the customer experience, while a poorly executed one can disrupt and annoy. Human curators understand the delicate balance between information and entertainment, ensuring messages seamlessly integrate with the music.
What’s more, music licensing and copyright are complex. Relying on personal streaming services can lead to legal trouble. Professional music curation services ensure compliance, protecting businesses while delivering a superior experience.
The Rolling Stone Culture Council is an invitation-only community for Influencers, Innovators and Creatives. Do I qualify?
AI is undoubtedly a powerful tool. But at my company, we utilize it to enhance our capabilities, not replace them. AI can help analyze data, identify trends and streamline processes. But the final curation decisions rest with our experienced and dedicated team of “music experts,” ensuring each playlist is infused with passion and a deep understanding of each client’s needs.
This extends beyond just music curation. In an increasingly automated world, the human touch remains invaluable.
By using AI to handle the more routine tasks, companies can free up their teams to focus on what matters most: providing thoughtful, personalized service that builds trust and long-lasting relationships. While AI can enhance productivity, a person’s intuition remains essential.
I can’t stress enough how important it is as a company leader to continue to encourage employees to bring their unique perspectives and creative insights to the table. This human element, combined with the impact of AI, can be powerful, ensuring that businesses remain customer-focused while leveraging technological advances.
I’ve written before about how much we prefer face-to-face meetings over a Zoom call at my company. Be sure to encourage your teams to actively engage with customers and clients, building relationships that extend beyond transactional interactions. Invest in training and development programs that emphasize emotional intelligence and interpersonal skills. Remember, human empathy can often be more valuable than the most advanced algorithm.
For New Level Radio clients, we continue to stress that the power of music is real. It can guide our energy through a symphony of reflection, anger, happiness and sadness within a mere handful of songs. It can move us, inspire us and create lasting memories. Music will always be more than background noise. It’s a powerful force for connection and experience.
And that’s something AI, no matter how sophisticated, will never fully replicate.
