The Grammys’ AI rules aim to keep the music human, but the large gray area raises questions about authenticity and authorship

At its best, artificial intelligence can help people analyze data, automate tasks and develop solutions to big problems: fighting cancer, hunger, poverty and climate change. In the worst case scenario, AI can help humans exploit other humans, harm the environment, take away jobs, and ultimately make us lazy and less innovative.

Likewise, AI is both a blessing and a curse for the music industry. As a sound engineer and professor of music technology and production, I see a large gray area in between.

The National Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences has taken steps to consider AI in recognizing contributions and protecting creators. Specifically, the Academy says only humans are eligible for a Grammy Award: “A work that does not contain human authorship is not eligible in any category.”

The Academy says the human element of the work submitted for consideration must be meaningful and significant. For now that means it’s okay for me to…