Samuel Smith, a London-based singer-songwriter diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease in 2020, has turned to artificial intelligence (AI) tools to continue creating music despite the progressive neurological disorder diminishing his ability to play guitar. His latest album, *The Art Of Letting Go*, features an instrumental track, "Horizon," for which he used AI platforms like Suno and Udio to generate demo arrangements. Smith used these demos to communicate his artistic vision to session musicians, emphasizing the AI-generated tracks were not included in the final recordings.

Smith’s symptoms, including tremors, stiffness, and fatigue, increasingly compromised his guitar playing during the 18 months he worked on the album. “I was faced with a question: don’t play, don’t be creative, or find a way out,” he said. AI became the solution that allowed him to maintain his songwriting amid physical challenges. By humming melodies into his phone and using AI tools to generate instrumental demos based on his prompts, Smith was able to convey ideas about instrumentation, mood, and style to collaborating musicians.

The album’s production involved Grammy-winning pianist Matt Rollings and a group of renowned roots and bluegrass artists, including Jerry Douglas, Alison Brown, Stuart Duncan, Bryan Sutton, Viktor Krauss, Jonathan Brooke, and Glen Phillips. Jazz and acoustic guitarist Julian Lage also contributed, performing alongside Smith on the title track and "Horizon." Smith described playing that duet as a “bittersweet” moment since it marked one of the last times he could physically engage in guitar performance due to the disease’s progression.

While AI music tools have sparked controversy within the industry—particularly regarding copyright concerns—these platforms are also seen by some as offering new opportunities for artists facing physical limitations. Major record labels sued Suno and Udio in 2024 alleging copyright infringement, although Universal Music Group and Warner Records reached settlements and partnerships with the respective companies.

Experts have highlighted the potential for AI-assisted music creation to democratize access and aid musicians with disabilities or illnesses. Ruaidhri Mannion, composer and educator at Brunel University of London, noted that AI technologies might enable more people to participate in music-making and collaboration, though he cautioned against losing the essential trial-and-error and cooperative aspects of the creative process.

Opponents, including a coalition of artists and industry figures, have expressed concern about the mass distribution of AI-generated works derived from existing music without proper compensation or consent. This group emphasizes the need to balance innovation with protecting artists’ rights and creative integrity.

Smith advocates for responsible development and adoption of AI music technologies. He encourages companies to engage with medical professionals, music therapists, and society to demonstrate the value of AI in expanding creative access, especially for those affected by health challenges.

In May 2026, Smith collaborated with the Berklee Music and Health Institute in New York at an event focused on how music can support individuals living with neurological conditions. There, he shared his personal experiences and performed alongside fellow musicians, underscoring the enduring importance of music in his life.

For Smith, creating music is not only an artistic pursuit but also a legacy for his children. “My four-year-old is probably never going to remember me playing, and it’s heartbreaking,” he said. Yet, through AI and perseverance, he continues to defy the limitations imposed by Parkinson’s disease.