Dave Davies Blasts Horrifying AI Cover of The Kinks, Says It “Sounds F*ckin Horrible”

Helping form the iconic band The Kinks, Dave Davies not only got the chance to perform with his older brother Ray, but he also helped the group create songs like “Strangers”, “Rats”, and “Party Line.” Having spent decades in the music industry, the musician watched as genres changed over the years. Welcoming in new eras of music, Davies recently shared his thoughts on AI. Over the last year, many singers discussed the dangers behind AI and how it could steal a performer’s voice in mere seconds. And recently, Davies learned just how powerful the tool can be. 

A video on YouTube started to gain traction as he presented a new song from The Kinks called “Hop, Skip Jump!”. With the video suggesting it was a new song, Davies took to Twitter to share his disdain for the technology. “What the f**k is this??? This Kinks AI cover is like horror show sounds fukin horrible The Kinks A.i – Hop Skip Jump!” – Latest Original Track.”

[RELATED: What are The Kinks’ 5 Biggest U.S. Hits?]

Fans Rally Behind Dave Davies And The Kinks

With his Tweet viewed over 10,000 times, many fans expressed their thoughts on the AI cover. “AI seems to mainly produce novelty crap. I’m not convinced it will ever create anything interesting. It can make stuff fast but not interesting.” Another person added, “Have your lawyer contact YouTube asap! Tell the lawyer to tell YouTube exactly what is going on and to take it off of their platform, immediately. Good luck Dave.” And one comment read, “Love ya, Dave. We know the real thing, for 60 years.  AI is an insult to art and critical thought. Peace.”

Thankfully, the video of The Kinks didn’t last long as it was eventually removed. Adding his voice to the conversation, actor Mark Hamill wrote, “You will be happy to know when I clicked on this it said “video unavailable”. (Still curious what The Kinks AI would sound like though).” 

Showing some curiosity surrounding AI and music, not every singer is against AI and technology. Having retired, the iconic band KISS is using technology to help create digital versions of themselves. Wanting to keep the good times rolling, many are embracing the new age of technology.

(Photo by Frazer Harrison/Getty Images for Sundance)