Image via Gary Numan’s Facebook Page
Gary Numan has voiced his concerns over the future impact of artificial intelligence, claiming that the technology will “ultimately end mankind.” The influential synth-pop artist shared his views during a recent interview with Music Radar, published on July 8, in which he reflected on both his career and the broader implications of AI on society and the arts.
Discussing the demise of his former label Numa Records, Numan turned his attention to the accelerating developments in AI. “I’m too old to fear it because by the time it’s done the damage it will do, I’ll probably be retired,” he remarked. “But there are so many different ways of looking at AI. Ultimately, I believe it will be the end of mankind, but from an artistic point of view it will do amazing things.”
Numan went on to predict a future saturated with AI-generated performers, suggesting the technology will make musicians “as replaceable as a cotton bud.” Despite the apocalyptic tone, he acknowledged that AI is likely to bring significant benefits in fields such as healthcare, diagnostics, and technology. “My wife, Gemma, has long had this fear of robot armies marching down the streets and zapping people, but I don’t believe that’s going to happen,” he said. “It’s going to make amazing advances… but it’s a pivotal moment in our history as far as the hierarchy of people making the decisions, and who’s ruining the planet.”
The interview coincides with Numan’s promotion of the reissue of his 1984 album Berserker, a record which, despite receiving critical acclaim, fell short commercially and ultimately contributed to the closure of Numa Records by 1990.
Reflecting on the challenges of running an independent label, Numan suggested that competing in the mainstream music industry remains “impossible.” “You were fighting against such ridiculous expectations, costs and bullying,” he said. “I’m not blaming them entirely for the demise of Numa Records, because I’m sure I contributed through my stupidity and ridiculous optimism. But they were awful — and every time one of them went under, I would rub my hands with joy.”
Numan’s comments contribute to a growing conversation among artists about the ethical and existential risks posed by AI. His remarks reflect a wider unease within the music industry over the future role of technology in creative expression, at a time when AI-generated music continues to develop at pace.
