Commemorating a Musical Icon with Advanced AI Technology
The late Shin Hae Chul, a revered figure in the music industry who passed away in 2014, is set to make a virtual comeback. NextUnited revealed on January 3rd that they will unveil an AI-generated vocal model named ‘AI Shin Hae Chul’ on the late artist’s official YouTube channel, ‘Shin Hae Chul Official Channel TV.’
Unearthing Treasures for a New Era
Behind this endeavor is the discovery of Shin’s work on his famed radio program ‘Ghost Station,’ found on his personal computer. Although Shin cannot record new lines or read scripts, NextUnited utilized public recordings of his broadcasts, lectures, and performances for voice synthesis.
Tech Giants Propel the Vision Forward
With 270 hours of Shin’s voice recordings, categorized into 6,757 segments and refined to remove noise and restore quality, video game company Pearl Abyss provided developmental support. Known for placing a statue of Shin in their hit game ‘Black Desert,’ Pearl Abyss continues to honor his memory.
A Family Touched, A Voice Perfected
The AI voice model wasn’t just a technical project but a heartfelt tribute. The model features tags for diversification and is capable of producing nuanced emotions, not merely copying Shin’s voice. This meticulous process involved contributions from Shin’s family and friends, including photographer Kang Young Ho, ensuring authenticity.
Future Endeavors with ‘AI Shin Hae Chul’
NextUnited plans to leverage this voice model for future content, including a new season of ‘Ghost Station.’ This technological leap allows Shin’s voice and message to resonate with fans once again, fulfilling a shared wish to bring the essence of his sound back to life.
Key Questions and Answers:
What is the significance of AI Shin Hae Chul?
The AI Shin Hae Chul vocal model represents a technological tribute to the late Shin Hae Chul, enabling his voice to be used in new content and allowing fans to reconnect with the musician’s legacy even after his passing.
How was AI Shin Hae Chul created?
The creation involved sourcing 270 hours of Shin Hae Chul’s voice recordings from various media such as radio broadcasts, lectures, and performances. These recordings were then categorized and refined to develop a nuanced AI voice model that can emulate his unique vocal character and emotional range.
What are the future plans for AI Shin Hae Chul?
NextUnited aims to use the AI voice model to produce new content, including a revival of the ‘Ghost Station’ radio program, which will allow Shin Hae Chul’s voice to continue to be heard by audiences.
What are the key challenges or controversies associated with using an AI model of a deceased artist?
One of the main challenges is the ethical consideration of posthumously replicating a person’s voice for new content without their direct consent. Controversies may arise over the ownership of an artist’s digital likeness and how it should be used, including concerns over potential exploitation or misrepresentation. It’s also crucial to ensure that the AI model accurately captures the essence of the artist’s voice to avoid diminishing their legacy.
Advantages and Disadvantages:
Advantages:
– Preservation of Legacy: AI allows for the continuing presence of an artist in the cultural landscape, keeping their work and influence alive.
– Innovative Content Creation: The AI model can generate new experiences for fans, such as unheard songs or performances, offering fresh ways to engage with the artist’s work.
– Emotional Connection: For those who were touched by Shin Hae Chul’s music and persona, the AI retains an emotional link between the artist and the audience.
Disadvantages:
– Ethical Concerns: There are ethical implications in using an AI to replicate a person who cannot give explicit consent, potentially leading to debates over the appropriateness of such technology.
– Authenticity Questions: Fans and critics might question whether content produced by an AI can truly reflect the artist’s intent or creative spirit.
– Legacy Management: Handling the artist’s legacy with care is vital to avoid negative reactions from those who cherish the artist’s authentic work and could feel that an AI model is a form of exploitation.
If you would like to learn more about the artist Shin Hae Chul, here is a suggested link to explore:
Shin Hae-chul on Wikipedia
For information on AI technology used in voice synthesis you might visit:
NVIDIA Deep Learning AI
Additionally, for insights into ethical considerations of AI, the following resource might be of interest:
Oxford Martin School