Bjorn Ulvaeus says AI is ‘an extension of your mind’
Despite signing an anti-AI letter, Bjorn Ulvaeus praises AI’s potential in music writing.
ABBA legend Bjorn Ulvaeus is working on a new musical with the help of AI, describing the technology as ‘an extension of your mind.’ Despite previously criticising AI companies’ unlicensed use of artists’ work, the 80-year-old Swedish songwriter believes AI can be a valuable creative partner.
At London’s inaugural SXSW, Ulvaeus explained how he uses AI tools to explore lyrical ideas and overcome writer’s block. ‘It is like having another songwriter in the room with a huge reference frame,’ he said.
‘You can prompt a lyric and ask where to go from there. It usually comes out with garbage, but sometimes something in it gives you another idea.’
Ulvaeus was among over 10,000 creatives who signed an open letter warning of the risks AI poses to artists’ rights. Still, he maintains that when used with consent and care, AI can support — not replace — human creativity. ‘It must not exclude the human,’ he warned.
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