Newfoundland Musician Urges Peers to Reconsider AI in Art

A musician from St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador, is calling on her fellow artists to reconsider the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in creative work. Rachel Cousins expressed her concerns over the increasing reliance on AI-generated content in various artistic domains, including music, cover art, and promotional materials.

Cousins discussed her views during an interview on CBC Radio’s The St. John’s Morning Show, emphasizing the emotional connection that art fosters. “Art is very human to me, and it always has been,” she stated. “I think that art comes with emotion and experience.” She articulated her worry that AI’s involvement in art could detract from the genuine human connection that creativity embodies.

While acknowledging the financial pressures that lead some musicians to opt for AI-generated visuals, Cousins highlighted the importance of supporting local artists. “There are so many brilliant artists who would absolutely die for the opportunity to make a poster for somebody for $50,” she noted. By choosing to pay for designs created by local talent, artists would contribute to a thriving community rather than relying on automated solutions.

Cousins also pointed to a troubling trend in the music industry, where fully or partially AI-generated songs are becoming more prevalent. She cited the example of Sienna Rose, an artist whose music appeared on Spotify in 2025 and has amassed 3.8 million monthly listeners. Reports from reputable outlets like BBC and Rolling Stone suggest that Rose’s work is likely AI-generated, raising questions about authenticity in music consumption.

“I think it’s a shame that there are people listening to AI and maybe even crying to an AI song,” Cousins remarked. “They’re not real. They’ve never felt those emotions before.” Her comments reflect a broader concern about the impact of AI on listeners, as they may unknowingly engage with music that lacks genuine emotional depth.

Maintaining the integrity of human-made art is particularly vital in Newfoundland and Labrador, where the local arts community is celebrated for its unique character. Cousins stated, “People across Canada notice that special community that we have here. And I don’t want to lose that.” She believes that the increasing trend towards AI art could undermine the communal aspect of creative expression that defines the region.

Cousins encouraged fellow artists to explore alternatives to AI, such as collaborating with friends or creating their own designs. “I don’t care if they’re bad. I just want them to be real and human,” she said. Her advocacy for preserving authentic artistic expression resonates with many in the community who share her concerns about the encroachment of technology on creativity.

Having released her first EP in 2017 and subsequently three albums, Cousins is also a notable figure in the local music scene. This year, she is nominated in three categories at the East Coast Music Awards, furthering her commitment to fostering a vibrant and genuine artistic community.

As the dialogue around AI in the arts continues, Cousins’ perspective serves as a reminder of the intrinsic value of human creativity and the connections it forges within communities. Through her advocacy, she hopes to inspire her peers to seek out authentic artistic experiences and to question the growing role of technology in their work.