The Rolling Stones, a legendary rock band, have recently released a music video for their new single, "In the Stars", featuring de-aged versions of Mick Jagger, Keith Richards, and Ronnie Wood. The video, directed by François Rousselet and starring Odessa A'zion, showcases the band performing in a warehouse with a crowd of fans and other musicians joining in. The de-aging technology, provided by South Park creators Trey Parker and Matt Stone's AI company, Deep Voodoo, is remarkable, almost indistinguishable from the original band members in the late 1970s.
This isn't Deep Voodoo's first foray into de-aging technology. They've previously worked on Kendrick Lamar's "The Heart Part 5" video, morphing the rapper's face into various iconic figures, and even de-aged Billie Joel for his 2024 song "Turn the Lights Back On". The company's goal, as stated by executive Jennifer Howell, is to create "beautiful, cinematic film and television that never pulls the viewer out because the effect doesn't look right".
The "In the Stars" music video is part of the Stones' rollout for their upcoming 25th album, Foreign Tongues, which was announced last week. The album's release date is set for July 10th, and the band has also released the opening track, "Rough and Twisted".
What makes this particularly fascinating is the fusion of technology and art. Deep Voodoo's de-aging technology not only pays homage to the band's iconic 1970s look but also allows for a unique and imaginative performance. It raises a deeper question about the future of music videos and the potential for AI to enhance creative expression. One thing that immediately stands out is the attention to detail in the video, from the body doubles to the AI data wrangling, which contributes to the overall authenticity of the de-aged band members.
In my opinion, this video is a testament to the power of technology in the creative industry. It opens up new possibilities for artists to revisit their past work or explore different eras in a fresh and innovative way. However, it also raises concerns about the ethical implications of AI-generated content and the potential for viewers to be pulled out of the immersive experience due to the uncanny nature of the effects. From my perspective, this video is a fascinating blend of nostalgia and technological advancement, leaving a lasting impression on viewers and sparking discussions about the future of entertainment.
