What in the World Meet Velvet Sundown - the band that doesn’t really exist
Jul 7, 2025
In a fascinating discussion, BBC journalist Tamzin Kraftman reveals the story of Velvet Sundown, a viral AI band that has taken the music world by storm despite not actually existing. She dives into the intriguing questions surrounding AI's role in the industry, including ethical concerns and the authenticity of music. As reactions vary, Kraftman highlights the tensions between traditional artists and AI-generated creations. The conversation also touches on artist rights in the era of AI music, making it a must-listen for anyone curious about the future of music.
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Velvet Sundown: AI Band Phenomenon
- Velvet Sundown is an AI-generated band with no real members or live performances.
- They have rapidly gained over a million monthly listeners on Spotify despite not existing physically.
Fan Reactions to AI Music
- Learning an artist’s music is AI-created can make fans feel betrayed or sick.
- Fans often value the human effort and investment behind their favorite musicians' work.
Signs of AI-Generated Band
- Velvet Sundown lacks social media and live shows, fueling doubts about its authenticity.
- The band uses AI-generated images and has become a subject of speculation.