D’Addario admits AI music tool Suno was used in promotional video after denial

D’Addario, a maker of guitar strings and accessories, has acknowledged that the AI music generator Suno Studio was used to regenerate part of a promotional demo track for a new set of strings designed for extended-range guitars and low tunings. The admission follows nearly two weeks of public back-and-forth in which the company repeatedly denied allegations that AI was involved, attributing anomalies in the track to plug-ins, mastering tools, or low-quality exports.

After critics pointed out discrepancies between the final demo and the Logic session files the company had shared, D’Addario edited its original Instagram post to correct the record. In the updated note, the company stated: “We got this wrong. We’ve completed a full review and confirmed that Suno Studio was used to regenerate the original track. We shared inaccurate information, and we’re truly sorry.” It added that it does not support AI-generated music and will require employees and creative partners to disclose any use of generative AI going forward, alongside tighter review of outgoing content.

The controversy began when observers noted melodic and rhythmic differences between the finished track and the Logic session files D’Addario had posted. Guitarist and YouTuber Rhett Shull later obtained the original Logic files directly from the company and concluded that Suno likely regenerated the track at some point in the process.

D’Addario’s acknowledgment is the latest in a string of AI-related disputes in the music industry, following public comments from Fender’s CEO comparing bandmates to analog AI.