AI-generated images of a fictitious rock band boost their Spotify following to 500,000 listeners
The mesmerizing sounds of The Velvet Sundown have captured the ears of music enthusiasts worldwide, with their unique blend of 1970s psychedelic textures, cinematic alt-pop, and dreamy analog soul. Surprisingly, The Velvet Sundown is not a real band but a creation of artificial intelligence (AI), generating alluring music and captivating images that have drawn nearly half a million monthly listeners on Spotify.
Although the band does not physically exist, their online presence is vivid and engaging. Fans were enchanted by the ethereal vocals of Gabe Farrow, the mesmerizing guitar riffs of Lennie West, the pulsating bass lines of Milo Rains, and the rhythmic beats of Orion ‘Rio’ Del Mar. Described as a hallucination that one desires to be lost in, The Velvet Sundown’s music has resonated with listeners across various platforms.
However, keen observers, particularly on Reddit and TikTok, noticed the uncanny appearance of the band members in their group photos, hinting at their true AI-generated nature. Music author Chris Dalla Riva highlighted the metallic sheen in the vocals, a telltale sign of AI-generated music. An Instagram page dedicated to The Velvet Sundown further confirmed their virtual existence, with comically staged photos that humorously exposed their lack of physical presence. From recording sessions in a fictitious studio to staged performances imitating iconic album covers, the AI-generated band’s façade was slowly unraveling.
Not only did The Velvet Sundown captivate listeners with their music, but they also left an indelible mark with their meticulously crafted image. Stock photographers expressed concern over the rise of AI-generated images, fearing they might be replaced in the creative landscape. This sentiment was echoed by Riva, who cautioned that Spotify’s promotion of AI music could overshadow and potentially harm real musicians striving to make a mark in the industry.
As the debate surrounding AI-generated content continues to evolve, The Velvet Sundown stands as a testament to the limitless possibilities of artificial intelligence in the creative realm. While their music may not be the product of human hands and voices, it has struck a chord with a vast audience, sparking conversations about the intersection of technology and artistry. Whether listeners embrace this new wave of AI-generated music or remain wary of its implications, The Velvet Sundown has undeniably made its mark on the music scene, challenging perceptions and blurring the lines between reality and artifice.