The Wurzels write song using artificial intelligence

The Wurzels, a well-known folk band from Somerset, have recently released a new single titled 'Wurzel Me Up,' which was created using artificial intelligence, commonly referred to as AI. This innovative approach to songwriting comes after a significant break from their last original composition. The band, famous for their hits like 'The Combine Harvester' and 'I Am A Cider Drinker,' felt it was time to embrace modern technology to help them craft new music. Pete Budd, the band's lead singer at the age of 84, expressed their realization that it had been quite a while since they had produced a fresh pop tune. He stated, 'We realized that it was a long time since we had written a new pop tune. We needed some 'cutting-hedge' technology. ' This reflects their desire to stay relevant and innovative in the ever-evolving music industry. Tommy Banner, the band's longest-serving member at 85, shared that they decided to explore the world of artificial intelligence to see if it could assist them in analyzing their extensive catalog of Wurzel songs and inspire them with new lyrics. The Wurzels have been entertaining audiences since their formation in 1966, achieving eight hit singles in the UK and three albums that reached the top 40. The current lineup includes Budd and Banner, along with Sedge Moore on bass, Louie Gribble on keyboards, and Leigh Delamere on drums. The band is excited about their new song and is eager to see how their fans will respond to this fresh approach to songwriting. They are committed to keeping their music lively and engaging while also respecting the importance of originality. Budd acknowledged the concerns surrounding AI, particularly regarding issues of plagiarism and copyright. He emphasized their stance against any form of copying without proper compensation, stating, 'We don't agree with plagiarism in any form without some form of remuneration and so, in this case, we have strived to only plagiarise ourselves. ' This statement highlights their commitment to ethical practices in music creation. The Wurzels are a unique band that has always embraced fun and creativity in their music. By incorporating AI into their songwriting process, they hope to create something special that resonates with their audience. Their long-standing history in the music industry has allowed them to develop a loyal fan base, and they are determined to continue sharing their musical journey with everyone. The band understands that using AI can lead to questions about originality, but they are focused on ensuring that their work remains true to their artistic vision. The Wurzels are excited about the future and look forward to exploring new avenues in their music-making process.