Auto-tune is a popular pitch corrector that is used in so many songs today. Auto-tune was created in 1997 by Dr. Andy Hildebrand. The first song that was released using auto-tune was Cher’s “Believe” in 1998. While everyone has their own opinion about the use of auto-tune, the software does provide some unique effects.
The song “Believe” has a futuristic feeling with robotic sounds and vocals where obvious auto-tune is being used. At the time, this was something completely new and exciting. The man who invented auto-tune originally intended for it to be used discretely and non-noticeable. Cher’s team took it upon themselves to create this song with highly obvious auto-tune which shocked the world. This song was a game-changer that paved the way for what the early ’00s music would become.
Rather than using auto-tune for its intended use as a pitch corrector, Cher intensifies the software by distorting her vocals, which we now hear a lot, especially in hip-hop and rap these days. This hit song topped the charts and changed music forever. The music video for this feel-good, dance-pop song has surpassed 204 million views on Youtube and is still listened to and cherished today, even 24 years later.