Computers and electronic music are not the opposite of the warm human music. It's exactly the same.

The quote "Computers and electronic music are not the opposite of the warm human music. It's exactly the same" by Bill Laswell challenges the common perception that electronic music and human-created music are fundamentally different. Laswell, a musician and producer known for his work in experimental and electronic music, argues that the technology used to create music does not diminish its humanity or emotional depth. He suggests that whether music is created with computers or traditional instruments, it can still carry the same emotional impact and expressiveness.

Laswell’s statement reflects his belief in the unity of music across different forms and mediums. He recognizes that while the tools may change—from acoustic instruments to digital synthesizers and software—the creative process behind the music remains rooted in human expression. This view challenges the idea that electronic music is cold or mechanical, asserting that both electronic and traditional forms of music share the same underlying emotional connection between the artist and the audience.

The origin of this quote can be traced to Laswell's extensive work in electronic and fusion music, where he embraced technological advances to expand the possibilities of sound. He was part of a movement that saw computers and electronic instruments not as replacements for traditional music, but as tools that could enhance the range of creative expression. Laswell’s view reflects a broader perspective in the music industry that technology should be seen as an extension of the artist’s creativity, rather than a barrier to emotional connection.

Ultimately, this quote emphasizes the continuity of musical expression, whether it's created with modern technology or traditional means. Laswell’s statement encourages listeners and artists to see music as a universal language that transcends the tools used to create it, and that the emotional and human essence of music remains unchanged, regardless of the method used to produce it.