A.I. use in music has been controversial over the last few years, but Timbaland is looking to shift the narrative. The 52-year-old producer is linking up with SUNO and will have a special contest as part of the release of his next single “Love Again.”
Timbo will be taking over as strategic advisor for the company, which recently had legal brush-ups with labels who felt that it infringed upon creators’ creativity. Nonetheless, he proudly used the platform for months and now will be working with them in an official capacity. The “Apologize” artist is kicking the partnership off in a major way as well.
In a video uploaded to the SUNO YouTube channel, he shows fans how he can alter music via the SUNO app. He does so with his forthcoming single “Love Again,” which will be out on Oct. 23. Viewers and artists will have the opportunity to try their hand at it too, as he has created a contest where two lucky winners will appear on remixes to “Love Again.”
Those interested in competing can preview Timbaland’s “Love Again” on suno.com/timbaland. Beyond the chance to appear on a song with him, the Songwriters Hall Of Famer is also giving out $100,000 in cash prizes.
“When I heard what SUNO was doing, I was immediately curious,” Timbo said of the partnership in a statement. “After witnessing the potential, I knew I had to be a part of it. By combining forces, we have a unique opportunity to make A.I. work for the artist community and not the other way around. We’re seizing that opportunity, and we’re going to open up the floodgates for generations of artists to flourish on this new frontier. I’m excited and grateful to SUNO for this opportunity.”
Mikey Shulman, CEO of SUNO, was thrilled to bring the Virginia producer into the mix. “It’s an honor to work with a legend like Timbaland,” Shulmna said. “At SUNO, we’re really excited about exploring new ways for fans to engage with their favorite artists. With Timbaland’s guidance, we’re helping musicians create music at the speed of their ideas—whether they’re just starting out or already selling out stadiums. We couldn’t be more excited for what’s ahead!”