In the world of independent labels, you know that standing out from the crowd is crucial. With so many talented artists vying for attention, you need to get creative with your marketing strategies. One option that has recently caught the attention of the music industry is generative AI imaging, such as popular tools Dall-E and Midjourney. If you’re unfamiliar with generative AI imaging, it’s a form of artificial intelligence that uses algorithms to create unique images based on a set of parameters. In the case of Dall-E, you can input text descriptions of an image and the tool will generate a unique visual representation of that description.
Why & How? –
For independent labels like yours, this presents a unique opportunity to create eye-catching visuals that set your artists apart from the competition. By using generative AI imaging, you can create unique album artwork, social media graphics, and other promotional materials that stand out from the crowd. The process of using Dall-E is relatively straightforward. You simply input a text description of the image you want to create, and the tool generates a unique visual representation of that description. You can then use these images in your marketing materials, whether that’s on social media, your website, or even physical promotional materials.
Pros –
One of the key advantages of using generative AI imaging is the ability to create truly unique visuals. With so much competition in the music industry, it’s important for independent labels like yours to stand out from the crowd. By using tools like Dall-E, you can create images that are unlike anything else on the market, helping your artists to stand out and build a distinct brand whilst saving resources on outsourcing your design process.
Cons –
However, there are some drawbacks to using generative AI imaging as a marketing tool. The technology is still relatively new, and there is a learning curve associated with using these tools effectively. It would be disingenuous to suggest that this will be the complete answer to all your design issues. The technology can be laughably off at some points and takes a lot of time for you to get used to, so it’s definitely just worth bearing in mind that as of now this technology is still very hit and (mostly) miss.
Despite these challenges, independent labels are already finding success with generative AI imaging. One real-world example is the Los Angeles-based label Friends of Friends, which recently used generative AI imagery to promote the artist Shlohmo’s latest album. The label worked with a team of designers and developers to create a custom generative AI tool that would create unique visuals based on the themes and imagery of Shlohmo’s album.
The resulting images were used across a variety of promotional materials, including social media graphics, album artwork, and even a limited-edition run of physical posters. The campaign was a huge success, generating buzz among Shlohmo’s fanbase and attracting new listeners to his music. The unique visuals created by the generative AI tool helped to set Shlohmo apart from the competition and build a distinct visual brand for the artist.
Lil Yatchy also caught the attention of audiences earlier this year by releasing his latest album with a completely AI generated cover. The album has gone on to be one of the most acclaimed of the year so far and its uncanny valley cover went hand in hand with the psychedelic switch up in his music.
So is the future now? Ultimately, it’s still clear there is a way to go before this technology is consistently reliable on a large, repeatable scale. The software is certainly there to help meet SOME needs now, so exploring whats possible and what’s not, as well as keeping up to date with advancements, is the a logical way forward.
If you’ve found this relevant and helpful, visit Instrumental to see how we can help you further grow your label!