It`s All About Speed: AI`s Impact on Workflow in Music Production

2026-05-28

AI Summary

This study examines the tensions between speed, controllability, and creative autonomy arising from the integration of AI and automation tools in music production. Drawing on ethnographic methods—including in-depth interviews and situated observations—the research systematically investigates how professional recording engineers, mixers, and producers actually use and perceive mainstream AI-powered music technologies. It offers the first practitioner-centered account of the sociotechnical conflicts emerging as AI becomes embedded in real-world workflows, revealing that gains in efficiency often come at the cost of diminished creative control. Building on these insights, the study proposes a user-centered design approach to guide the development of future tools that better balance operational efficiency with the preservation of artistic agency.

Abstract

In this paper, we present the results of an ethnographic study into the impact of AI and automated tools on music production workflow. Focusing specifically on professional participants who identified as recording engineers, mixers, and producers, we discuss their usage of common AI and automated software, as well as their sentiments on the proliferation of these tools. We discuss tensions that may be created between users and automated tools in key areas such as the need for speed and efficiency, controllability, and maintaining creative agency, and how these tensions may be alleviated through tool design.

Problem

• AI
• music production
• workflow
• creative agency
• automation

Innovation

• AI in music production
• workflow optimization
• creative agency
• human-AI collaboration
• ethnographic study