Teddy Swims Says He Sometimes Uses AI to Make Music and Edit Lyrics: “I think it’s a beautiful tool”

The episode examines musician Teddy Swims's candid use of artificial intelligence (AI) in his songwriting and production process, detailing the subsequent public reaction and debate that followed his 2025 revelation. Swims explains that he utilizes generative AI tools like Claude and Suno primarily to break through writer's block, brainstorm rhyme schemes, or quickly create reference tracks and melody sketches. Crucially, the text highlights that he draws a firm line, asserting that the AI functions strictly as a powerful “intern” and never replaces his live-sung lead vocals or the authentic emotional core of the performance. While his transparency initially provoked backlash from purists who feared the "death of art," his core fanbase largely accepted his methods, trusting his commitment to genuine performance. Ultimately, the article frames Swims as an industry figure normalizing AI, treating it the same way past generations incorporated tools like Auto-Tune or synthesizers into mainstream music.