Scott Ian Supports Backing Tracks: “It All Just Comes Down to What It Is and How It Moves You”

Bands using backing tracks has been a heavily contested trend in recent months, with differing schools of thought effectively going to war over what’s genuine and what’s not. And now we’ve got another person entering the fray, as Anthrax guitarist Scott Ian came out in support of backing tracks during a recent interview.

In a clip, posted yesterday on the Syncin’ Stanley YouTube page, Ian said that thanks to advances in technology, bands can do more. And while backing tracks are generally frowned upon by fans, Ian said all that matters is that the tech is utilized in service of the show.

“Obviously, I’m aware that this is something that’s going on these days now that the technology has made it possible to do these kind of things. And my opinion is I really don’t care. I don’t care what artists do or what bands do to make their show happen. My opinion is that it’s hard out there for bands and artists these days; it’s never been tougher. And whatever it takes to get a show on, I think. It’s all part of the show. This is just new technology that people aren’t accepting yet. That’s just my opinion.

“Really, who cares? You know what I mean? If it’s something you don’t like, then you have the choice. You have the choice as a consumer to spend your money or not spend your money. And, really, that’s what it comes down to. So why there’s a big deal about it, honestly, I don’t care.

“I will say this. I did hear an AI version of Bon Scott singing on [AC/DC’s] ‘You Shook Me All Night Long’ yesterday online, and it gave me the chills — in a good way. So, whatever. I love that. I’m sure if there was other AI stuff I heard, I’d probably maybe have a different opinion on it. It all just comes down to what it is and how it moves you.”