Yovie Widianto on AI in Indonesian Music: It Can Be Precise, But It Has No Heart
Jakarta, CNBC Indonesia - Yovie Widianto, Special Staff to the President for the Creative Economy, reminded the younger generation not to rely entirely on artificial intelligence (AI) in creating music.
According to the veteran musician, AI can help the creative process quickly and precisely. However, technology cannot replace the emotion and heart of humans in creating art.
“AI can make music in an instant, it can compose songs. But AI does not have a heart,” Yovie said during a discussion at the Jogjakarta Financial Festival 2026 at the Jogja Expo Center, Yogyakarta Special Administrative Region, on Friday (22/5/2026).
Nevertheless, the composer of ‘Mantan Terindah’ believes AI should only be a supporting tool, not the main foundation in the human creative process.
“Make AI a tool or partner in our creative work. But do not let it become the main instrument or rely on AI as a crutch,” he added.
Yovie says technological progress cannot be avoided. He also admits to always following developments in music technology—from the cassette era and analog tape to today's digital platforms.
“If I do not study technology, I will be cut off and disappear with the times,” he said.
But amid AI development, Yovie stressed the importance of maintaining originality and the human touch in artworks.
“Do you prefer artificial love or true love?” Yovie asked the participants of the Jogja Financial Festival.
“If it is true love, then strive for real human beings, not artificial ones,” he continued.
Music Is More Than Technology
During the event, Yovie also emphasised that great music is not born solely from technology, but from life experiences, emotions, and cultural values. He cited the song ‘Cantik’, born from his emotional relationship with his mother and his father's guidance since childhood.
According to Yovie, differentiation and cultural identity are the main strengths for Indonesian musicians to endure amid global developments and the automation of technology. He said Indonesian songs must have an Indonesian flavour.
He referred to elements of Indonesian vocal style such as ‘hei ya ya’ in his songs as an important part of building the national music identity.
“Technology will continue to change, but works born from human feeling and experience will always have a place,” said Yovie.