In Episode 116, Manny and Shawn dive deep into the "uncanny valley" of the music industry. After Manny realizes his latest R&B obsession is actually a sophisticated string of code, the guys discuss the rise of AI artists like Sienna Rose and Xania Monet, who just landed a $3 million record deal without having a pulse.

In this episode, we cover:

Quarter 2 Vibes: Why breaking your year into quarters might save your sanity.

The Tampa Struggle: A love-hate letter to Seminole Heights, the "unassuming" Velvet Gypsy, and why the trolley is just a marketing gimmick.

The AI Revolution: AI songwriters signing multi-million dollar deals. Is the "human element" of art officially dead? Xania Monet and Sienna Rose

Friendship Update: A listener gives us the final word on that 30-year friendship breakup we discussed in Episode 110.

Whether you're here for the tech talk or the transit rants, grab a craft cocktail (or a tea) and join the experience.

Listen now and join the conversation! 👇

To find our show or to submit your anonymous questions or get in contact with us, find it all here: https://linktr.ee/MASXP23 or search MASXP23 - You can also email me at mailto:mannyandshawn@gmail.com

00:00 Introduction to the Show and Personal Updates

01:44 Exploring Life in Quarters

02:35 Breaking up the week is essential

04:03 Drive-by conversations

04:27 How do we find places to go out or the energy?

04:58 Finding New Places to Explore

07:49 Transportation Challenges in Tampa

12:25 AI is in everything.

14:00 AI Artists and Their Impact on the Music Industry

16:54 The Controversy of AI-Generated Music

19:37 Xania Monet AI Artist is Telisha "Nikki" Jones

22:47 The Role of Human Artists in an AI-Driven World

26:15 Is AI going to ruin up and coming artists?

31:54 Will AI kill the music industry?

39:40 Listener story update!

43:37 Closing thoughts and Reflection