AR Rahman

AR Rahman is a globally acclaimed composer whose work spans over 500 film scores, earning him multiple Oscars, Grammy Awards, and the Padma Bhushan. Known for blending Indian classical music with electronic production, Rahman has consistently embraced innovation, from digital recording in the 1990s to AI-assisted audio in the present day. Moreover, he established Panchathan Record Inn, AM Studios, and the AR Rahman Foundation.

In 2024, Rahman became the first Indian composer to use AI-generated voice models in a popular film song, Thimiri Yezhuda, in Lal Salaam, recreating the voices of late singers Bamba Bakya and Shahul Hameed with the consent of the singers’ families, along with fair compensation. He described the approach as a purposeful, ethical use of AI, clearly stating that it was “not a gimmick”.

Rahman remains a thoughtful voice in the global debate on AI in music. He warns against replacing human artists but believes AI can empower under-resourced creators and expand access to quality production. At 58, he continues to blend melody and machine—pioneering with principle.