DataBass: Human music for a tech world | Scott Mulvahill | TEDxNashville

Summary

In this engaging performance, Scott Mill, a musician and songwriter, introduces his invention, 'database,' a unique blend of technology and live music. Using an upright bass combined with MIDI technology, he creates a dynamic soundscape that amplifies his creativity. Scott reflects on the role of technology in our lives, drawing inspiration from Wendell Berry's essay, 'Why I Am Not Going to Buy a Computer.' He explores the need for balance between progress and preserving human dignity, emphasizing that technology should serve humanity, not replace it. Ultimately, the performance is a thoughtful exploration of authenticity, innovation, and purpose.

Takeaways

• 😀 The musician created a tool called 'database' that blends the upright bass with digital technology, enhancing live performance by adding new sounds.
• 😀 The song 'Both Ways' represents humanity's constant desire for more, exploring the universal struggle between wanting benefits without drawbacks.
• 😀 The musician emphasizes that technology’s purpose should elevate humanity, not eliminate it, and that the purpose behind technology is crucial to its value.
• 😀 The musician used his own coding skills and DIY approach to invent 'database,' combining his love for songwriting, music production, and live performance.
• 😀 The essay 'Why I Am Not Going to Buy a Computer' by Wendell Berry is referenced to discuss the role of technology in our lives and its potential negative effects on human dignity.
• 😀 The musician recognizes that while he uses technology, there’s a balance between embracing new tools and preserving human authenticity and community.
• 😀 Wendel Berry's viewpoint critiques the fast-paced adoption of technology and emphasizes a need for slower, more thoughtful choices regarding tech and its impact on the environment and humanity.
• 😀 The musician acknowledges that while technology can create new possibilities, it is crucial to question the end goal of these innovations and their broader implications on society.
• 😀 The idea of live performance is central to the musician's approach, as he believes that technology should enhance, not replace, the uniqueness and vitality of live shows.
• 😀 The musician warns that AI, like other technologies, could serve to concentrate wealth and power in the hands of a few if not carefully monitored, urging consideration of older systems like government and education to ensure ethical use of technology.

Q & A

What is the central theme of Scott Mill's presentation?

The central theme is the exploration of the purpose behind technology, specifically in art and tools, and how it can either elevate or diminish us depending on how we define and use it.

Why did Scott Mill choose the upright bass over other instruments for his music?

He chose the upright bass because it is the instrument he plays the best and where he found his artistic voice. It allowed him to create baselines, counterpoint melodies, and percussion, all at once.

What is Database, and how does it function?

Database is a tool that Scott Mill created, which combines a bass instrument with technology. It’s a sampler that can play back various sounds in real time and allows him to trigger them during live performances.

What inspired Scott Mill to create Database?

Scott Mill was inspired by the desire to use technology to enhance his live performances and create real-time sounds, rather than just giving the impression of other sounds with his bass. He wanted to combine his love for songwriting, music production, and live performance.

What is the significance of the song 'Both Ways' in Scott Mill's presentation?

The song 'Both Ways' represents the universal struggle of wanting more—balancing desires, benefits, and consequences. It highlights human nature’s tendency to seek benefits without the associated drawbacks.

How does Scott Mill view the role of technology in society?

He believes technology, like AI, should be used with careful consideration of its purpose. He cautions that technology should serve humanity and not just benefit a select few, emphasizing the importance of questioning the purposes behind the tools we create.

What is Wendel Berry's stance on technology, as mentioned in the presentation?

Wendel Berry expressed skepticism about the benefits of computers and other technologies, arguing that they prioritize speed, ease, and quantity over quality. He values dignity for people and the environment over adopting new technologies for convenience or progress.

How does Scott Mill relate his own use of technology to Wendel Berry’s perspective?

Scott Mill acknowledges that he uses technology (like his MacBook and AI tools) despite Wendel Berry’s critique, but he shares the concern that technology can sometimes lead to the exploitation of resources and people. He believes it's crucial to ensure that technology serves human needs, not the other way around.

What does Scott Mill mean by 'purpose drives the form of any tool we build'?

He means that the design and functionality of tools, including his Database system, are determined by their intended purpose. In his case, the purpose was to create an instrument that enhances his live performances, which influenced the design and features of the system.

Why is live music performance so important to Scott Mill, and how does it relate to his use of Database?

Scott Mill values the uniqueness and spontaneity of live music, where every show is different. By using Database, he creates real-time soundscapes, maintaining the vitality of live performance while adding the flexibility of technology to enhance his shows.