Jason Derulo’s Opening Act Is Using AI to Transform His Voice

Jason Derulo fans are being introduced to an unusual new kind of music production on his latest tour, with opening act Josh Fawaz using AI to transform his own recorded vocals.

The Australian DJ and producer has been experimenting with generative AI as part of his music, including on his version of Madonna’s “Like a Prayer”. His work eventually caught the attention of Derulo, who selected Fawaz to open shows on his Australian tour.

It means a music experiment that began with AI-assisted production is now being performed in front of audiences attending shows by one of America’s most recognisable pop stars.

How is Josh Fawaz using AI?

Fawaz isn’t simply asking AI to make an entire song and releasing whatever comes back. He has demonstrated a process where he records himself singing before using AI music platform Suno to transform the recording into a different sounding vocal. He remains the producer behind the music and makes the creative decisions about what ultimately becomes part of the track.

His version of “Like a Prayer” has attracted particular attention. The track acknowledges the use of generative AI for vocals and drums and went on to reach the top of Australia’s national radio airplay chart.

That success makes Fawaz an interesting example of where AI music is heading. There is a real musician creating and performing the work, but AI has become another tool available during production.

Jason Derulo says AI doesn’t replace talent

Derulo has now spoken positively about the possibilities of the technology, although his argument isn’t that AI can suddenly turn anybody into a successful musician.

Instead, he sees it as another tool that talented producers, writers and musicians can use to develop their work.

That distinction is particularly relevant as the music industry continues debating what role generative AI should have in creating songs, voices and performances.

For Fawaz, however, the technology has already moved beyond experimentation at home. His AI-assisted music has received substantial radio exposure, caught the attention of an international pop star and is now part of a major live tour.

And that may be the most interesting part of the story. AI music isn’t only something appearing in online demonstrations anymore. In this case, there’s still a human musician standing on the stage, but one of the tools helping shape the sound is artificial intelligence.