Scott Borchetta Faces Boos Over AI Remarks at Commencement

Scott Borchetta, the founder of Big Machine Records who is also known for discovering Taylor Swift, was met with boos from graduates while delivering his commencement address at Middle Tennessee State University. His comments on artificial intelligence during the speech seemed to spark the negative reaction.

The event took place on May 10 at the Murphy Athletic Center in Murfreesboro, Tennessee, where Borchetta spoke to graduates from the Scott Borchetta College of Media and Entertainment, among other colleges named after him due to his influence in the music industry.

In his address, Borchetta highlighted the rapid changes impacting the entertainment sector and urged graduates to recognize their role as agents of change. He stated that the industry has transformed dramatically over the past decade, more than in the previous fifty years, thanks to streaming and social media’s influence on music discovery.

However, when he turned his focus to AI, stating, “AI is rewriting production as we sit here,” the audience responded with a chorus of disapproval. Borchetta quickly countered the negative response by reminding them, “Hey, like I said, listen now or pay later. This is a tool. Make it work for you.”

Despite the backlash, he continued to share insights about navigating technological changes within creative fields. He cautioned graduates to prioritize honing their creative skills over becoming overly reliant on platforms and systems, which can change frequently. “The most valuable commodity remains good content, good storytelling,” he emphasized.

Borchetta reinforced the idea that fundamental creative skills will remain essential, asserting that no advancements in AI could alter this truth. “Regardless of platform, content is king. Give it a great idea,” he added, advising graduates to trust their judgment and instincts as they move forward in their careers.

He then shifted his focus to reminisce about his own career in the music business, discussing his passion for discovering and developing talent. He particularly alluded to the importance of supporting emerging artists who haven’t yet found their audience.

While Borchetta is widely recognized for his role in launching Taylor Swift’s career, she wasn’t mentioned during the ceremony. Their relationship soured after he sold the label, including Swift’s first album masters, to another management, leading to public accusations from her side.

Throughout his tenure, Borchetta has signed many notable country artists, advising graduates to believe in unproven talent. “Careers are built when someone, at a critical moment, sees something unproven and says, yes, I believe in you,” he remarked.

In closing, he acknowledged the significance of his name being associated with the graduates’ degrees, encouraging them to embrace their roles in shaping the future. His statements were met with enthusiastic applause.

Interestingly, recent reports have indicated that AI remains a contentious topic in graduation speeches, with other prominent figures also facing boos for mentioning it, illustrating the growing divide among younger audiences regarding the subject.