Microsoft has a rich history of collaborating with entertainers to integrate technology into their art, and it has recently partnered with Indonesian singer and producer Warren Hue. Together with 88rising, an Asian media company and record label, they have created an AI-generated “never-ending remix” of Hue's latest song, "Too Many Tears." This innovative audio-visual experience can be explored at TooManyTears.AI, which features images of the San Gabriel Valley paired with remix elements from the song.
This project marks Microsoft's third foray into AI-based music and its first venture into electronic music. The remix is uniquely designed to adapt to different times of day, capturing various moods from morning to night, while also crafting a "more pastoral landscape." Without the constraints of a typical three to four-minute track, the remix allows for longer, more contemplative musical loops. Hue's original song blends a slow, melodic chorus with faster rap verses, creating an interesting contrast with the extended, serene background music meant to accompany scenic visuals.
88rising’s technical specialists scouted the San Gabriel Valley for optimal views, setting up a camera that streamed a 24/7 video feed to Microsoft’s Azure Virtual Machine servers. The AI analyzes four main time events—morning, day, dusk, and night—to create audio that aligns with these transitions, ensuring a seamless blend of music with the changing visuals.
This project not only celebrates the vibrant culture of the San Gabriel Valley, one of the most ethnically diverse regions in the U.S. but also acknowledges its flourishing Asian-American community. Amy Sorokas, director of strategic partnerships at Microsoft, highlighted the excitement of collaborating with 88rising, commending their innovative approach to promoting Asian and Asian-American artists. Considering the increase in anti-Asian hate crimes and its debut during Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month, this initiative is both relevant and timely.