Eclipse Nkasi, Ezinne Okeke, Others Explore AI Benefits at ‘Music Meets Data’

Stakeholders in the music and technology industries have explored pathways to leverage artificial intelligence for the enhancement of music production, promotion and accessibility in Africa at the recently held Music Meets Data workshop in Lagos. Organized by business incubation platform, Instig Labs, and technology outfit, SLOT Africa, the hybrid workshop featured keynote speakers, panel discussions, a data visualization competition, and networking opportunities.

“Gone are those days when success relies solely on instinct and luck, now we have an ocean of data and valuable insights that have transformed the way we make and market music.” said Ezinne Okeke, who analyses data to predict trends for music marketing at Mavin Global, one of Nigeria’s biggest record labels.
Data analysis is like looking into a magical telescope to understand how people access music.

Through data analysis we gain an understanding of our listeners, their preferences, and even the emotions they seek when listening to music. Like a map, this data points us in the right direction to create actual music that resonates with our audiences.
Gilbert Bani, a recording artist, founder and music manager, gave insights into a scientific approach

“AI is an assistive tool rather than something that takes over the entire process”, said Eclipse Nkasi, founder of Wakati Media, an outfit that produces and promotes music utilizing AI.

Nkasi described the process he took to produce and market a music album titled ‘Infinite Echoes’ which involved the creation of an AI musician called Mya Blue.

Other facilitators include Gilbert Bani, Aashay Jain and Lola Oyedele, amongst others.