J-POP legend behind AKB48 was challenged and defeated by AI.

Legendary J-POP lyricist and producer Yasushi Akimoto recently faced off against an AI that had studied his own creative process.

The challenge was to each produce a brand new song for AKB48's 20th anniversary. They both handled every step of the production, from writing the lyrics and picking the melody to choosing which members would perform the song. The two songs were then released anonymously, and fans were given the chance to vote on which one they liked more.

In a surprising turn of events, the AI's song, "Omoide Scroll," beat out Akimoto's own song, "Cecil." As a result, the AI-produced track was officially released digitally as AKB48's new song. The outcome was a huge shock to everyone, including former AKB48 member and producer Rino Sashihara, while Akimoto himself looked visibly disappointed.

This event is likely to be a historic precedent, marking the first time a mainstream J-POP musician has competed against and been defeated by an AI.