AI-Generated Song “Okay” Takes TikTok by Storm, Sparking Debate on Music’s Future
Hanoi, Vietnam – A seemingly simple song about finding contentment in everyday life is unexpectedly dominating TikTok, but the story behind its viral success is anything but ordinary. “Okay” (also known as “Living a peaceful life is enough”), created entirely using artificial intelligence, has exploded in popularity, amassing over 1.3 million views and appearing in nearly 300,000 videos. This breaking news story highlights a pivotal moment in the intersection of technology and art, raising questions about the future of music and the definition of creativity. This is a Google News worthy event, and we’re covering it for our readers.
From Marketing Guru to AI Music Pioneer: Meet Ken Quach
The song’s creator, Quách Anh Thảo (Ken Quach), a 1978-born marketing professional, isn’t a traditional musician. He’s a pioneer in using AI tools to compose music. His TikTok channel, now boasting over 60,000 followers and 500,000 likes, has become a showcase for AI-generated tracks, including previous hits like “Drinking a lifetime for you” and “Alone.” “Okay” wasn’t a secret experiment; Quach openly labeled his creations as “AI generated” from the start. However, the label gained significant attention only after the song went viral. Quach revealed the song was inspired by a poem, “Peace is okay” (La paz es suficiente), which he then transformed into a melody using AI.
The Power of Simplicity and a Timely Message
The song’s appeal lies in its simplicity. The lyrics – “Living a quiet life is enough, being able to drive a motorcycle or a car is enough…” – resonate deeply with a generation facing increasing pressures and a relentless pace of life. The timing is also crucial; as the year draws to a close, many are reflecting on their goals and seeking a sense of peace. This message has clearly struck a chord, attracting endorsements from Vietnamese celebrities like Truong Giang, Miss Khanh Van, and even Korean group Tempest, further fueling its spread. The song even topped the list of most searched songs in Vietnam for 2025, according to early reports.
The Cost of AI Creativity: A Look Behind the Scenes
Creating these AI-powered songs isn’t cheap. Quach estimates each track takes about a week to produce, from AI-generated lyrics to final recording. He relies on a combination of paid AI platforms, incurring monthly maintenance costs of approximately VND4-5 million (roughly $160-$200 USD). This demonstrates that while AI lowers some barriers to entry, it doesn’t eliminate the need for investment and expertise. This is a key consideration for anyone looking to leverage AI for SEO and content creation.
AI Music: A Blessing or a Threat? The Debate Rages On
The success of “Okay” has ignited a debate about the role of AI in music. While many praise the song’s catchy melody and positive message, others express concern about the potential for AI to devalue human creativity. Some listeners find the music, after repeated plays, to be somewhat repetitive and lacking the emotional depth of human-composed songs. Critics point to limitations in melodic structure and a perceived lack of a unique “personal touch.” However, the widespread acceptance of “Okay” suggests that, for many, a catchy tune and relatable message outweigh concerns about its origin. The trend towards AI music in Vietnam is clearly gaining momentum, signaling a shift in public perception.
The Future of Music is Here – and It’s Powered by AI
The story of “Okay” isn’t just about a viral TikTok song; it’s a glimpse into the future of music. As AI technology continues to evolve, we can expect to see even more sophisticated and emotionally resonant AI-generated music. The question isn’t whether AI will play a role in music creation, but rather how humans and AI will collaborate to shape the soundscape of tomorrow. Stay tuned to archyde.com for ongoing coverage of this rapidly evolving landscape and the latest in technology, culture, and breaking news.
