A musician from St. John’s voices strong concerns over the growing use of AI-generated content in the arts. Rachel Cousins observes her peers relying on artificial intelligence for cover art, promotional posters, and even music production.
Preserving the Human Element in Art
“AI handles everything from music creation to accompanying visuals,” Cousins states. She emphasizes the profound human essence of art, rooted in emotion and personal experience. “Art is very human to me, and it always has been. I think that art comes with emotion and experience,” she explains. “What a shame to have a machine try and spit anything out at me that I’ve felt and it hasn’t.”
Cousins acknowledges the cost barriers that drive musicians to AI for gig posters but argues that investing in human designers supports the local creative community. “There are so many brilliant artists who would absolutely die for the opportunity to make a poster for somebody for 50 bucks,” she notes.
Promoting Authentic Alternatives
She encourages DIY approaches or collaborations with friends. “I don’t care if they’re bad. I just want them to be real and human,” Cousins asserts.
Rise of AI-Generated Music
Recent trends show music partially or fully produced by AI gaining traction. On a global level, Cousins highlights Sienna Rose, whose tracks debuted on Spotify in 2025 and now attract 3.8 million monthly listeners worldwide. Reports indicate this artist and her music are likely AI-generated. “I think it’s a shame that there are people listening to AI and maybe even crying to an AI song,” she says. “They’re not real. They’ve never felt those emotions before.”
Protecting Newfoundland’s Artistic Community
In Newfoundland and Labrador, Cousins stresses the need to safeguard human-made art and the tight-knit creative scene. “People across Canada notice that special community that we have here. And I don’t want to lose that,” she declares. “I think we’re kind of expected to, as a people, fall into this AI hole right now. And I’m just hoping that people kind of start questioning more what they can do differently.”
Cousins released her debut EP in 2017, followed by three albums. She earns nominations in three categories at this year’s East Coast Music Awards.
