The Velvet Sundown is facing backlash for faking an AI-generated band. The supposed “AI rock group” was a stunt — the music wasn’t created by artificial intelligence at all.
The issue started when it was revealed that the band’s AI label was just a provocative front. Fans and critics called out the move as misleading and tone-deaf.
Soon after, the controversy spotlighted bigger problems with Spotify’s practices. Critics argue Spotify avoids paying proper royalties to artists, and this fake AI band stunt only added fuel to that fire. 
The launch follows growing fears about generative AI being used irresponsibly, especially when real people’s work is undervalued or misrepresented.
