‘It will never cover what’s authentic’: African music industry weighs up AI risks and rewards
At the Atlantic Music Expo in Cape Verde, African music industry figures discussed the potential of AI to support indie artists through tools for production and marketing, while emphasizing its limitations in replicating authentic human creativity. Concerns were raised about AI plagiarism and weak intellectual property protections in African markets, as well as broader risks in the deepfake landscape. Cape Verde’s culture minister stressed the need for financial support mechanisms to help artists thrive alongside AI. The event highlighted both opportunities for technological collaboration and the irreplaceable value of live, culturally rooted musical expression.
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Sambaiana, a seven-woman ensemble from Brazil, gave their first performance outside their home country at the Atlantic Music Expo in Cape Verde. Photograph: Ricci Shryock/The GuardianView image in fullscreenSambaiana, a seven-woman ensemble from Brazil, gave their first performance outside their home country at the Atlantic Music Expo in Cape Verde. Photograph: Ricci Shryock/The GuardianCape Verde‘It will never cover what’s authentic’: African music industry weighs up AI risks and rewardsDelegates at event in Cape Verde highlight opportunities from tech while stressing AI is no replacement for talentEromo Egbejule in PraiaWed 29 Apr 2026 00.00 EDTLast modified on Wed 29 Apr 2026 00.02 EDTSharePrefer the Guardian on GoogleLast July, the Nigerian singer-songwriter Fave found herself caught…
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