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AI is not the enemy, it is the beginning of a new creative era

Enhancing creative potential with AI

By Ngerezah Netshifhefhe • 28 May 2026
AI is not the enemy, it is the beginning of a new creative era

Discussing AI with musician Sir Mckleker, we concluded it's not a threat but an exciting new era for creativity. AI empowers artists with powerful tools, yet will demand greater originality and authenticity to stand out.

Over the weekend, I had a conversation with Sir Mckleker, a musician and producer. Our discussion centred on artificial intelligence (AI) and whether it is here to destroy the creative industry.

As the conversation unfolded, we agreed that AI is not the enemy of the creative space. In fact, it may signal the beginning of a greater and more exciting creative era.

AI has the power to make things faster, simpler and better. It gives artists studio capabilities they could only dream of a few years ago. Independent creatives now have access to tools that can help them produce, edit, market and distribute their work at a much higher level.

However, one thing became clear: AI will also expose mediocrity. Real talent will now be pushed to the limit. Creatives will have to dig deeper into their craft, originality and storytelling. When everyone has access to the same tools, what will separate artists is no longer just access, but vision, creativity and authenticity.

The future may belong to those who know how to combine human imagination with technological power. AI can generate sound, visuals and ideas, but it cannot replace lived experiences, emotion, culture or soul.

Perhaps this is not the end of creativity, but the beginning of a stronger creative industry that will reward genuine talent more than ever before.

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