Electronic musician Grimes is preparing to release Psy Opera, her first studio album since 2020's Miss Anthropocene. The project explores artificial intelligence, technological acceleration, and the possibility of humanity becoming extinct as AI systems grow more powerful. Rather than using AI primarily as a production tool, Grimes is examining its implications for human creativity, identity and survival. The album's lead single, “Accelerando,” was released on October 9, 2026, and was produced by Grimes alongside VADAKIN, who previously collaborated with her on “Artificial Angels.” Songwriting credits include Grimes, VADAKIN, Elley Duhé and Skyler Stonestreet. Grimes writes and produces her own music, frequently collaborating with other musicians.
Despite the album's AI-centered concept, Grimes has emphasized that Psy Opera is inspired by artificial intelligence rather than generated by it. In an interview with author Nnedi Okorafor, she explained that she generally does not use generative AI in her music. The confirmed exception is the track “DeepSeek,” which contains some lyrics created with assistance from the DeepSeek AI model. Grimes has not disclosed additional generative AI use in the album's musical production. Responding to speculation about the project, she wrote on X: “Created by a 70 person team over many months!” Her statement emphasizes the human creative work behind the project.
Grimes recently revealed another detail about the album during an October 11 appearance on the Swiftologist Proto Pop podcast. She deliberately avoided writing songs about her former partner Elon Musk, explaining, “I just didn't want any of this to be about Elon.” She described Psy Opera as a two-part project, with the first installment focused on conceptual themes involving AI and technology, while the second will be more personal. Grimes has also described AI as a mirror through which humanity can better understand itself.
Grimes has previously experimented with AI technology outside her own music production. In 2023, she introduced Elf.Tech, allowing other creators to generate music using an AI version of her voice under specified licensing conditions. She has also experimented with Midjourney for visual artwork. Although she supports creative experimentation with AI, Psy Opera reflects her preference for human-directed songwriting and production. A release date for the full album has not yet been confirmed.
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