Africans In Tech
Welcome to Africans In Tech, a podcast where inspiring journeys in the world of technology are explored. Hosted by Sahr Lebbie, join us for candid interviews with tech professionals sharing their stories, challenges, and triumphs. Whether you're new to tech or a seasoned veteran, valuable insights and mentorship opportunities await. Let's demystify tech together and drive positive change in the industry.
Africans In Tech
Africans in Tech Podcast Episode 44 | AI Music, Voice Cloning & Creative Control w/ Ayo Beatz
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What does it really take to break into the music industry — and stay there?
In this episode of Africans in Tech, host Sahr Lebbie sits down with Ayo Beatz — UK-based rapper, producer, and global creative — to unpack his journey from freestyling as a teenager in New York to producing a Top 3 UK charting record.
Ayo Beatz shares the real, behind-the-scenes path of building a music career from the ground up: learning production just to get free studio time, balancing artistry with business, and navigating the financial risks that come with chasing global success.
The conversation also dives deep into how AI is reshaping music, creativity, and ownership — from AI-generated vocals and stems to major-label contracts restricting AI usage. Ayo breaks down why understanding music fundamentals still matters in an AI-powered era, and how artists can protect their creativity while leveraging new tools.
This episode covers:
Growing up in London and moving to New York as a teen
How environment and exposure reshaped his mindset
Learning music production without a traditional university path
Producing “See Nobody” by Wes Nelson — a Top 3 UK hit
The business realities of being both an artist and a producer
Budgeting wins, losses, and costly lessons in music
AI in music: ownership, ethics, and future opportunities
Building songs through live layering and collaboration
Touring internationally across the Middle East and Asia
If you’re an artist, producer, creative, entrepreneur, or technologist navigating the future of work, creativity, and ownership — this conversation is a must-watch.
🎧 Stream, learn, and share.