Suno: The ChatGPT of Music


Near Harvard University in Cambridge, Massachusetts, a startup named Suno is transforming music creation with advanced artificial intelligence. Suno’s AI generates complete songs from simple text prompts in any genre, utilizing any instructed instrument.

Suno employs a dual-model approach: one AI produces the music, while another, based on OpenAI’s ChatGPT, creates the lyrics. This method results in authentic and emotionally resonant songs. One could now use ChatGPT to write lyrics in various forms, such as love, tragedy, and nature, and then input those lyrics into Suno to have it compose music.

The founders, Mikey Shulman, Keenan Freyberg, Georg Kucsko, and Martin Camacho, transitioned from working at Kensho Technologies to exploring AI’s potential in audio. Their initial product, a text-to-speech program called Bark, evolved into a music generator after user feedback highlighted a demand for such a tool.

Mikey Shulman envisions millions creating music effortlessly, bridging the gap between music listeners and creators. Suno ensures ethical AI use by not mimicking specific artists or using copyrighted material without permission. Their AI is trained on a mix of speech and music recordings to produce realistic human vocals.

Despite potential legal challenges, investors like Antonio Rodriguez from Matrix are confident in Suno’s mission. They see Suno as a revolutionary musical instrument, democratizing music creation like smartphone cameras did for photography.

Suno’s technology could disrupt traditional music creation, particularly in advertising and TV shows where custom music is commissioned. However, the company focuses on enhancing the music experience for enthusiasts, not replacing professional artists. They believe increased music engagement will benefit the industry.

With plans to expand and establish a larger headquarters, Suno continues to innovate, aiming to push the boundaries of AI in music. Their goal remains to make music creation intuitive and enjoyable, fostering a deeper connection between people and music.