Linda Perry Backs AI as Tool After 2026 Ivor Novello Award

Linda Perry, honored with a special international award at the 2026 Ivor Novello Awards, urged songwriters to view artificial intelligence as a routine aid rather than a threat. Fellow musician James Blunt echoed the sentiment, noting AI can handle vocal tasks and backing tracks.

Perry, 61, has written chart‑topping songs for Christina Aguilera, Pink and Gwen Stefani. She received the award at London’s Grosvenor Hotel for her lasting influence on British songwriting.

The Ivors Academy presents the peer‑judged prize to recognize outstanding composing and lyricism. Her career spans three decades, during which she has also mentored emerging artists through her Custard Records label.

During her acceptance speech Perry told the Press Association that AI is “just another tool that has shown up to make people’s life easier in some way.” She compared it to the arrival of microwaves, arguing that fearing new technology only leaves room for misuse.

James Blunt, who presented the award and signed Perry to her Custard Records label in the 2000s, agreed. He said AI can sing high notes in his voice, carry the load of a track, and produce flawless backing vocals at lower cost.

The remarks suggest a growing acceptance among established writers that AI can supplement creativity without replacing it. Industry observers note that such endorsements may encourage more songwriters to experiment with AI‑assisted composition and production.

Some analysts caution that reliance on AI could raise questions about originality and royalty distribution, though Perry and Blunt stressed the technology’s role as a helper rather than a creator.

Looking ahead, watch for upcoming workshops and panels at music conferences where Perry, Blunt and other artists demonstrate practical AI tools for melody generation, mixing and rights management.