Fenix Flexin isn’t even denying using AI to make ‘Rubberz’ anymore

The conversation around artificial intelligence in creative industries has shifted from speculative fear to undeniable reality, and Los Angeles rapper Fenix Flexin is now at the center of that storm. According to reporting by The Verge, Flexin appears to have finally stopped denying the use of AI tools in his recent hit, "Rubberz." This admission comes after significant pressure from producers and industry observers who pointed to clear digital fingerprints in the track.

The controversy began when producer Medasin released videos suggesting that an AI tool called Treblo, formerly known as Sonauto, was responsible for generating the song's core elements. Treblo is a platform that allows users to create music by inputting prompts, often resulting in tracks that mimic existing styles without traditional instrumentation. The company even released an AI detector specifically designed to identify outputs from their system, which flagged "Rubberz" as a likely AI creation.

Flexin’s initial response was one of confusion and deflection. He claimed he did not know what the app was until the mixing stage and insisted it had nothing to do with the recording process. This distinction between recording and production is a common defense in the AI era, suggesting that while the artist performed, the underlying composition or sound design was automated. However, this line of reasoning is becoming increasingly difficult to sustain as AI tools become more integrated into the entire creative workflow.

The turning point came when Flexin replied to a comment on Instagram referencing Tyga’s recent admission of using AI for his album $tarface. Tyga had been open about his reliance on these tools, sparking a broader debate about authenticity in hip-hop. Flexin’s reply, "never said I didn't use AI," was a subtle but significant concession. It suggests that the industry is moving past the need for secrecy and toward a new normal where AI assistance is an open secret.

This shift is particularly interesting because it highlights the growing sophistication of AI detectors and the public’s increasing literacy in identifying AI-generated content. The fact that a company like Treblo would release a detector indicates that they are aware of the stigma attached to their technology. It also shows that the line between human and machine creativity is blurring in ways that are no longer easily hidden.

For artists and creators, this moment serves as a cautionary tale about transparency. The initial denial likely damaged credibility more than the admission itself. As AI tools become more accessible, the ability to detect their use will only improve. Creators who embrace these tools openly may find more success than those who try to pass off AI work as entirely human-made.

What this means for you is that the era of hiding AI usage is over. Whether you are a musician, writer, or designer, the tools are here, and the audience is getting smarter at spotting them. Instead of fearing detection, consider how you can integrate AI ethically and transparently into your workflow. Here is a prompt you can try with an AI assistant to help you audit your own creative process: "Analyze this draft for any sections that feel generic or lack personal voice, and suggest specific edits to inject more unique human perspective and anecdotal evidence."