From Drum Beats to Data: Tom Morley on Art, AI, and Staying Relevant at 70

In this vibrant episode our host Lena Robinson sits down with Tom Morley, a founding member and drummer of 80's pop band Scritti Politti, who’s now reshaping his creative journey with AI. At 70, Tom's experiences are as dynamic as ever; he shares his reflections on using AI in everything from drumming and visuals to song production. With a background in fine arts and a well-earned reputation as an engaging performer, Tom brings a unique perspective on the intersection of human creativity and AI.

Tom discusses how AI tools like Midjourney and Suno have transformed his creative process, allowing him to experiment with visual art and music in unprecedented ways. Despite initial skepticism, Tom dove into AI, embracing the technology to enhance his work’s reach and resonance. His story touches on fascinating examples, like the AI-generated visuals that captivate audiences at his drumming gigs and his foray into AI-assisted songwriting.

The conversation also explores the essence of creativity in the digital age. Tom emphasises the importance of human touch—the art of “knowing when to stop”—and the role of years of artistic experience in making the most of AI's potential. Together, Lena and Tom unpack the delicate balance between embracing new technology and maintaining artistic integrity, leaving listeners inspired to reflect on how AI might serve their own creative goals.

Things mentioned in this episode

• Tom Morley - https://tommorley.com
• Scritti Politti (On Spotify) - https://open.spotify.com/artist/59luKpdal8UwxcuLJNoKwS?si=D6gzScPtQKKZ4b7ybVGbxA
• The FTSQ Gallery - https://ftsqgallery.co.uk/shop-prints-sketches-merch/tom-morley
• Fox & Badge - https://www.foxandbadge.com/
• Midjourney - https://www.midjourney.com/home
• Runway - https://runwayml.com
• Suno - https://suno.com
• ChatGPT - https://chatgpt.com
• Vogue - https://www.vogue.co.uk
• Jamie Wheal (Books - ‘Stealing Fire’ and ‘Recapture the rapture’ - https://www.amazon.co.uk/Books-Jamie-Wheal/s?rh=n%3A266239%2Cp_27%3AJamie+Wheal
• Brian Eno - https://www.brian-eno.net
• Clive Langer - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Clive_Langer
• Grace Jones, Demolition Man - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qlHiX8-33Jw
• Antonio Gramsci - https://en.wikiquote.org/wiki/Antonio_Gramsci
• Afro Celt Sound System - https://www.facebook.com/officialafroceltsoundsystem/
• Simon Sinek (Book - The Infinite Game) - https://simonsinek.com/books/the-infinite-game/

SOCIAL MEDIA LINKS

• Insta - https://www.instagram.com/_tommorley_/
• Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/tommorleyspeaker
• LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/tommorleyrockstar/
• Twitter - https://x.com/TomMorley

Thanks for listening, and stay curious!

//Lena