The Velvet Sundown, a band with a rapidly growing fanbase on streaming platforms, is at the centre of a debate about AI's role in music. The band's music has been described as reminiscent of 1970s rock, similar to bands like Kansas and Creedence Clearwater Revival. However, suspicions have arisen due to the band's sudden appearance, prolific output of two albums in two weeks, and the AI-generated aesthetic of their promotional materials.
Some believe The Velvet Sundown is entirely AI-generated, with no human musicians involved. This has intensified discussions around the need for streaming services to label AI-created music. While Spotify currently has no policy against AI music, other platforms like Deezer are exploring AI detection tools and flagging AI-generated content. A spokesperson has admitted the band is an 'art hoax' created using Suno, an AI music generator.
The rise of AI-generated music presents challenges for the industry, potentially impacting artists' royalties and raising questions about authenticity. As AI technology advances, the debate surrounding its use in music creation is expected to continue, with implications for both artists and listeners.
