Jethro Tull’s Ian Anderson warns fans about “insidious” AI content of him circulating online
Jethro Tull frontman Ian Anderson has warned fans about fake AI-generated content circulating about him on social media.
In a statement, published on his official social media channels, the rock vocalist began by clarifying it was “the real Ian Anderson here”, which he noted is what “you would expect from our official website and associated social media”.
Anderson then explained the reasoning for his statement, telling fans, “It has come to our attention that fake fan websites and social media accounts are displaying AI-generated content purporting to be by me – whether lyrics, music or social commentary.”
He continued, “If you see this insidious, childish and dishonest material, please ignore it as it will not be genuine. If you haven’t read or seen it on our official social media platforms then it is most likely fake or, at best, copied and pasted from our legitimate sources.”
Anderson then acknowledged that this doesn’t only relate to him, adding, “Of course, this sort of abuse is not limited to me or Jethro Tull, doubtless many, many others in similar positions are having their public personae tampered with and faked for the amusement of the perpetrators, or even financial gain in some cases.”
Over the past 12 months, there have been notable examples of fake AI images that have gone viral on social media, such as Paul McCartney visiting Phil Collins in a hospital, and Crowded House singer Neil Finn issued a statement after an AI-generated news broadcast claimed he suffered from erectile dysfunction.
Anderson defiantly added, “This is the tip of the iceberg in terms of a future where AI at its worst is accepted and tolerated in society.”
He also believes the AI issue will only become worse in future years, adding, “As the AI algorithms become more sophisticated, it will be harder and harder to spot the fakes and we will all be reduced to simply not trusting ANY source of information or entertainment.”
The Jethro Tull frontman wrapped up his statement by solemnly writing, “Sad world and sadder times”.
In February, Jethro Tull will begin their European tour, which is set to arrive in the UK in April with notably dates including The Lowry in Salford and The London Palladium.
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