John Summit causes controversy after using AI to produce Kanye-sounding track vocals for EDCO set

John Summit’s AI-powered Kanye tribute had EDC Orlando buzzing, proving tech-house isn’t the only thing he’s shaking up.

John Summit boldly used an AI version of Kayne West’s voice for the intro of his EDC Orlando set, sparking major debate by some while wooing others. The intro was a remix of Kayne West’s “I Love Kanye” track, but instead used phrases that correlated with John Summit’s life – like his tech-house era and dating Ashtin Earle. 

The lyrics said: “I miss the old Summit, the on a bender Summit, plus there’s upside down Summit, the dark tech-house Summit. I hate the new Summit, the EDM Summit, dating influencers Summit, Comfort in Chaos Summit.” The mix then goes into John Summit’s song OG tech-house song, “Trip.”

The controversy stems from how Kanye West has not officially authorized the use of his voice for AI-generated music. But this has not stopped dozens of AI apps, including TikTok, from allowing it. The AI music generators have trained models on samples of his music and speech, which allows them to recreate his distinctive sound. There have also been questions on the status of John Summit and Ashtin Earle’s relationship following the set and how he brought up dating an influencer – referring to her. Ashtin Earle posted about a break-up a few weeks ago on her Instagram story and it appears the two are not together anymore.

Comments about the track flooded videos of the set on social media. Some were questioning whether Kanye may get mad while others dissed it in general. “I think ye coming with a cease and desist letter for this lolol.” Other comments said, “This delusion and unfettered arrogance is why everyone hates John Summit and his fans,” and “Old Summit used to make groovy house tracks not this BS lol.”

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However, not everyone was displeased with the AI track. Dozens of people shared how they were actually extremely excited about it. Positive comments on John Summit’s Instagram post included, “Everything about last night’s set was absolutely unmatched!!!!!,” – “This is actually an iconic intro” – “Dark tech house summit is superior” – and “I’ll never get over it.” Several others called the track dope and gas. 

By pushing these boundaries, John Summit not only captivated the audience but also raised fresh questions about how AI is reshaping creativity and ownership in the music world. This unexpected decision stirred the crowd and quickly ignited discussions across the music industry/community.

Featured image credit: Instagram/John Summit – Evan Agostini/Invision/AP, File