Sonu Nigam sings AI-powered duet with Mohammed Rafi and wins fans’ appreciation
Singer Sonu Nigam integrated artificial intelligence in the live tribute to Mohammed Rafi at the Sher-e-Kashmir International Convocation Complex, the first major event in the valley after the Pahalgam attack and received enthusiastic responses both at the venue and online.
Singer Sonu Nigam gave a remarkable performance at the Sher-e-Kashmir International Convocation Complex in Kashmir, where she used artificial intelligence to recreate the voice of Mohammed Rafi and performed a live duet with the late singer. Held against the backdrop of Dal Lake and the Zabarwan Mountains, the event was the first of its kind in the region after the Pahalgam attack and represented a blend of tradition and technological innovation.
The performance received widespread praise from attendees and viewers online. Clips of the concert circulated on social media, with fans expressing deep appreciation for the combination of nostalgia and modern technology. An attendee commented, “I don’t know how many people can relate to this but it’s God himself what Sonu Nigam did tonight was nothing more than making us feel his divine presence #rafifanforlife (sic).”
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The audience reactions highlighted the impact of the concert. Online commenters described the experience as remarkable, with one saying, “It’s absolutely legendary,” while another commented, “Seeing this concert live is a whole other level of magic. You are truly lucky to experience this concert in person.”
The use of artificial intelligence in this context was particularly noted by the audience. One response summed up the sentiment: “When technology becomes pure emotion.” The integration of AI allowed for a unique tribute combining musical influences of past and present.
After the event, Sonu Nigam discussed the role of AI in music during an interview Indian ExpressReflecting on how technologies are changing creative processes. He was asked, “In today’s world, when AI is changing the way music is made, how do you think it impacts the creative process, especially when we now hear AI recreating the voices of Rafi Sahab and Kishore Kumar?”
Sharing his perspective, Nigam responded, “AI should be treated as an assistant, not your boss. It’s a tool that can support creativity, but it should never replace the human soul that gives music its true essence.” The artist’s comments echoed the ongoing debate regarding technological advancements in art.
Taking place at an iconic Kashmiri venue and signaling the return of large-scale cultural events to the valley after the recent unrest, the venue of the concert added to its significance. The beautiful backdrop of Dal Lake and Zabarwan Mountains contributed to the ambiance of the evening.
Currently, Sonu Nigam is on a seven-city Satrangi Re tour, with upcoming performances scheduled in Mumbai, Hyderabad, Kolkata, Pune, Ahmedabad, Shillong and Delhi. The tour continues to explore the interplay of classic and contemporary elements in Indian music.