Activ8te’s “Am I AI?” is where EDM and cybersecurity meet in an exciting way. Released on August 8th, 2024, this track isn’t just another electronic tune—it explores artificial intelligence and the tension between human control and machine autonomy in a really interesting way.
Activ8te is the result of a collaboration between Niels Provos and Jake Lizzio. Niels Provos is well known in the cybersecurity world for his work at Google, Stripe, and Lacework, and he’s also the creator of Google’s Safe Browsing initiative. During the pandemic, he started getting more into music and even took classes at Berklee Online College of Music to refine his skills.
Jake Lizzio, on the other hand, is a respected music educator and the founder of Signals Music Studio. Through his YouTube channel, he’s helped millions of aspiring musicians understand music theory and songwriting. Together, Provos and Lizzio bring a unique blend of technology and musical talent to their project, creating EDM that stands out for its thoughtful messages.
“Am I AI?” takes on some big questions about AI, identity, and control. Lyrics like “Do you think that I’m a robot?” and “You’re required to comply” explore the dynamic between humans and machines, reflecting real-world discussions about the role of technology in society. The track’s beats are powerful and engaging, but it’s the deeper message that sets it apart from your typical EDM.
The music video for “Am I AI?” complements the song perfectly with sleek, high-tech visuals that reflect the futuristic themes of AI and self-awareness. It’s a great match for the song and offers a strong visual experience for fans of both music and sci-fi.
This isn’t the first time Activ8te has blended thoughtful themes with EDM. Previous tracks like “Teardrop Falling” and “Patch Your Network” have touched on topics like censorship, misinformation, and network security. Their approach has earned them recognition, including a spot in the DEFCON soundtrack and a Bronze Medal at the Global Music Awards in 2023.
Recently, Niels Provos became a voting member of the Recording Academy, further establishing his role in both the tech and music worlds. Activ8te has been featured on edm.com and WIRED, gaining attention for its unique take on electronic music.
If you’re looking for EDM with more depth, “Am I AI?” by Activ8te is definitely worth a listen. It’s got the beats, but it also gets you thinking, blending music and meaningful conversations about technology in a way that’s fresh and exciting.
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