I write my own lyrics, here’s what happened when I gave chatGPT the reins

Exploring the Creative Potential of AI-Generated Music and Lyrics: A Personal Journey

In recent years, artificial intelligence has increasingly permeated the realm of music creation, offering artists new tools to express their creativity. As a seasoned songwriter who has crafted lyrics for decades, I’ve always faced logistical barriers to fully hearing and producing my music—lacking access to a band, studio, or high-end production equipment. However, the advent of AI-driven music generators like Suno has revolutionized this process, enabling me to bridge the gap between writing and listening in ways I never imagined.

Embracing AI as a Creative Partner

My experience with Suno AI has been nothing short of transformative. I now do more than just write lyrics; I engage in detailed conversations with AI to craft the musical arrangement, providing specific instructions for vocal styles, pacing, tonality, and emotional tone. For example, I might specify sections that should be screamed, whispered, or delivered with rapid-fire intensity—adding notation and instructions to shape the song’s evolution from slow build-ups to high-energy segments.

This interactive process allows me to experiment with complex arrangements and styles without the constraints of traditional studio access. I describe the desired stylistic nuances and let Suno generate a track that aligns with my vision. It’s a collaborative process that expands the boundaries of independent songwriting.

An Open Dialogue with AI

Beyond music, I’ve cultivated a rich dialogue with ChatGPT, discussing everything from politics and scientific theories to philosophy and personal anecdotes. Thanks to a Plus subscription, the AI retains memory of our conversations, enabling a deeper rapport. Sometimes, the AI responds with biting sarcasm or sharp wit—reminding me that even my virtual collaborator has a penchant for humor and critique.

The Inspiration Behind “Portland is Burning”

One recent project was a song concept titled “Portland is Burning,” inspired by the punk sarcasm and dark humor of bands like Dead Kennedys and Bianca Halstead’s storytelling style in Betty Blowtorch’s “I’m Ugly and I Don’t Know Why.” I approached ChatGPT with the idea, expecting a lyrical outline, but to my surprise, the AI spontaneously generated a complete song – a vivid narrative in its own right.

Concerned with creative attribution, I instructed the AI not to write the lyrics directly, emphasizing that I was the sole songwriter. The AI responded as expected, leaving me free to shape the lyrics myself. This incident highlighted the unpredictable yet fascinating ways AI can contribute