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International Music Creators Seminar 2023 spurs collaborations, advocacy, and visionary discourse
Mumbai: The Indian Performing Rights Society (IPRS) hosted the International Music Creators Seminar on behalf of CISAC and the Asia Pacific Music Creators Alliance (APMA) on 5 December 2023. The APMA International Music Creators Seminar 2023 featured insightful panel discussions, each dedicated to exploring different facets of the music industry.
The first panel was about how artificial intelligence will revolutionise the music industry. Renowned artists and industry experts who attended the panel highlighted the positive potential AI tools have for creators, and the exciting AI revolution that is already happening cannot be stopped. Generative AI can extend the frontiers of human creation, enhance artistic expression, and deliver to creators new licensing opportunities and revenue streams. But AI also requires smart regulation. The industry needs to come together to prevent AI from undermining human creativity and threatening the livelihoods of creators.
In the discussion Dr. G.R. Raghavendra – Senior Consultant IPR, DPIIT, former Joint Secretary, Govt of India, Achille Forler Founder Silk Road Communications, João Kruss Gomes Chairman MACA, Mayur Puri – lyricist & screenwriter alongside moderator Benjamin NG, Regional Director for Asia Pacific, CISAC shed light on leveraging AI while ensuring regulatory frameworks uphold creators’ rights. “The integration of AI in music creation presents boundless opportunities for artists globally. It’s imperative to develop robust regulations to safeguard creators’ rights in this evolving landscape,” mentioned lyricist, IPRS Board Member and APMA vice chairman Mayur Puri.
Commenting on the same, Senior Consultant IPR, DPIIT, former Joint Secretary Govt. of India Dr. G.R. Raghavendra said, “In the vast landscape of AI, it’s important to dispel the notion that it’s inherently risky. Throughout the course of technological evolution, every leap forward has been met with the creation of rules and protections to ensure responsible usage. AI, such as ChatGPT, is essentially a machine that can’t replicate the depth of human abilities—it’s not that creative or original. When we talk about using someone’s work, whether in AI or any other field, seeking permission and offering fair compensation is not just a courtesy; it’s a fundamental aspect of ethical practice. In the grand scheme of technological advancements, maintaining fairness and ethical standards becomes the cornerstone of integrating AI responsibly into our lives. So, as we navigate this exciting era of innovation, let’s keep in mind the importance of consent, fair compensation, and ethical considerations in the realm of AI.”
The second panel, fair value of music in the streaming economy delved into the streaming landscape, emphasizing the need for creators to receive equitable returns from this burgeoning market. Discussions led by leading creators, legal experts, and industry veterans Dhinraj Shetty – MD Sony Music Publishing (India), Swanand Kirkire – lyricist, singer & Actor, Irfan Aulia – Musician, Managing Director, Massive Music, Chairman of the Supervisory Board of Collective Management Organization Wahana Musik Indonesia, Notapol Srichomkwan – songwriter and chairman MCT, Tarsame Mittal – Music Entrepreneur, moderated by Satoshi Watanabe of CISAC, highlighted the necessity for adaptations and government interventions to ensure a fair music ecosystem.
The third panel, the future of female representation & contribution in the Music Industry, featured discussions by lyricist and screenwriter Kausar Munir, music composer Sneha Khanwalkar, composer and music producer Merlyn D’Souza, music composer and producer Hiral Viradia, and Nanni Singh – chief executive showcase events, moderated by poet and lyricist Irshaad Kamil, on gender dynamics in the music industry. The panel passionately advocated for breaking down stereotypes, fostering inclusivity, and creating a diverse and inclusive musical landscape.
“The industry must actively foster an environment that embraces diversity and empowers female creators. It’s time to dismantle barriers and create more opportunities for women in music”, stated eminent lyricist and screenwriter Kausar Munir.
Javed Akhtar, legendary lyricist, screenwriter, poet, and chairman of IPRS, expressed his satisfaction with the event’s success, stating, “The International Music Creators Seminar 2023 underscores the power of collaborative innovation. The recently established collaboration with KOMCA ushers in a transformative period, encouraging a dynamic interchange of creation between India and Korea. Our commitment to creating an inclusive and equitable music industry where creator rights are safeguarded and creativity is nurtured was highlighted through stimulating panel discussions. Our narrative revolves around breaking down barriers, creating opportunities, and envisioning a world where creators and creativity flourish. We look forward to bringing such platforms to India and elevate our artists.”
The International Music Creators Seminar provided a platform to underscore the importance of cross-border partnerships and smart regulation for a vibrant and equitable creative landscape.
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Prime Video and Hrithik Roshan reunite for quirky heist comedy Mess
HRX Films expands pact with quirky heist comedy set for production
MUMBAI: Prime Video is doubling down on its partnership with Hrithik Roshan, announcing a new comedy film Mess that promises chaos, chuckles and a clever twist on the classic heist.
Produced by Hrithik Roshan and Eshaan Roshan under HRX Films, a division of FilmKraft Productions, the film is being made in association with Soda Films Lab. Directed by Rajesh A Krishnan, Mess marks the second collaboration between the streaming platform and HRX Films after the upcoming thriller Storm.
At the heart of Mess lies an unusual premise. A group of robbers break into the home of a man with OCD, only to find themselves outmatched in a night-long standoff that flips the script on who is really in control. It is a set-up that blends tension with humour, turning a break-in into a breakdown of expectations.
Prime Video India director and head of originals Nikhil Madhok said, “A good story should surprise and entertain, and Mess does both with ease. It brings together a unique premise, memorable characters and a tone that keeps you laughing throughout.”
He added that the collaboration with HRX Films continues to grow stronger, with the new film reflecting a shared appetite for bold and original storytelling.
Hrithik Roshan said, “After Storm, Mess feels like a natural next step in our journey with Prime Video. The film captures the kind of unconventional storytelling we want to champion, with Rajesh bringing a distinctive voice to the narrative.”
Director Rajesh A Krishnan said, “The world of Mess is a mix of comedy and chaos, unusual enough to keep audiences on edge while still delivering humour. It has been a deeply collaborative and creatively fulfilling experience.”
The original screenplay comes from Paul Soter, with adaptation and dialogues by Kapil Sawant, adding another layer of craft to the film’s offbeat narrative.
As production gears up, Mess looks ready to live up to its name, serving up a delightful tangle of mayhem, mischief and movie magic for audiences in India and beyond.
