I’ve been reading, listening to, and following Nick Currie, the Scottish artist, musician, and writer known as Momus, for over 20 years. As he prepares to release his new album, Ballyhoo, he graciously shared his time and thoughts in this extensive conversation.
We explore his artistic philosophy, the role of art in liberating the imagination, and his experiments in AI compositions and K-pop influences, finding AI to be both a tool and a challenge for contemporary songwriters.
He delves into his concept of 'elective affinities,' reflecting on his cosmopolitan lifestyle, upbringing, and the impact of various global cultures on his work. We also discuss the contemporary decline of the West, Currie's views on masculinity, the moral panic surrounding new technologies, and his retrospective critique of authenticity, freedom, and more. The conversation left me inspired to follow Momus and continue others to advocate for a fearless approach to creativity and the importance of embracing change and novelty in art.
Selected Time Stamps from Interview
00:00 The Essence of Art and Fiction01:09 Introduction to Momus: Nick Currie's Journey02:43 Exploring AI in Music Creation05:02 The Impact of AI on Songwriting08:08 Cultural Identity and Elective Affinities12:57 Global Perspectives and Personal History17:59 The Role of Moral Panic in Art and Technology22:18 Self-Censorship and Artistic Freedom29:14 Influences and Inspirations in Music34:09 The Schizoid Aesthetic and Autism34:46 Drugs and Mental Health35:44 Tao Lin and Autistic Identity37:28 Masculinity and Identity41:01 Cultural Decline and Fertility Issues43:06 The Evolution of Decades45:00 The Impact of the iPhone48:07 Spirituality and Intellectual Interests50:15 Love for Cities and Urban Life56:50 Fashion and Personal Style58:34 Future Projects and Reflections - In the Future We’ll License 15 AI versions of ourselves…
Nick Currie has been releasing music for nearly 40 years, books, countless websites, video lectures across new and old technologies.
For More Visit imomus.com
Song Sample from Ballyhoo : Plastic Seoul
Photos, songs, videos, book covers etc all by Momus/Nick Currie
