SKNNCC Takes Steps to Protect Creative

SKNNCC TAKES STEPS TO PROTECT CREATIVES

As Artificial Intelligence (AI) becomes increasingly used in music creation and production, the St. Kitts-Nevis National Carnival Committee (SKNNCC) is seeking to ensure that our local creatives remain at the heart of our Carnival music.

The SKNNCC recognises that AI, when used responsibly, can be a useful creative and production tool. At the same time, the Committee believes that the contribution of artistes, songwriters, producers, arrangers, scorers, musicians and other creatives must continue to be valued and protected.

For Soca Monarch and Road March, AI-assisted technology will be permitted, but AI-generated creative content will be limited to no more than 20%. Fully AI-generated songs and AI-generated or cloned vocals will not be permitted.

For the Junior and Senior Calypso Monarch Competitions, AI may be used as an assistance tool in the creative process. However, its contribution to the creative content of a song should not exceed 20%. The songs should continue to reflect the creativity and talent of the calypsonian as well as the contribution of the other creatives involved.

SKNNCC Chair Ms Shannon Hawley, said the Committee is seeking to find the right balance between embracing new technology and protecting the people behind the music. “We are not trying to stop the use of technology. What we want to ensure is that, as AI becomes more widely used, we do not lose the human creativity that makes our Carnival music what it is. Behind every song are people whose talent and contribution we must continue to value. AI can assist the creative process, but it should never replace our creatives.”

The SKNNCC will engage competitors on the responsible use of AI as preparations continue for Sugar Mas 55.