The Last Mixed Tape

When reports emerged that an AI-powered version of Ozzy Osbourne could continue interacting with fans after his death, the story was widely framed as a debate about artificial intelligence.

But perhaps the more interesting question has nothing to do with technology. For most of human history, art survived the artist. The songs remained. The books remained. The films remained. Technology is beginning to make something very different possible.

Using Ozzy Osbourne as a starting point, this essay explores digital resurrection, AI, memory, grief, nostalgia, Mark Fisher’s “slow cancellation of the future,” and what happens when culture becomes increasingly uncomfortable with endings.

The Last Mixed Tape is hosted by Stephen White, and is also available on Spotify and Apple Podcasts.