Guitarist Bella Perron has exited hard rockers Plush in dispute of AI-generated art being used on the band’s cover art for their upcoming single “Why“. That upcoming track was co-written and co-produced by Disturbed vocalist David Draiman. In a statement issued yesterday, June 11th, Perron stated:
“AI art does not align with my values. If I had known the cover art was going to be AI-generated, I would have never signed my name onto it.
The morals of the band and affiliated parties do not align with my own, and I feel it is best to take a step away.
This is a matter I’ve felt torn about since first being hired as a musician for Plush, but I cannot go forward.
I am grateful for the opportunities being in Plush provided me with.
Effective today, I’m no longer a hired gun associated with Plush Rocks, Inc.
Bella Perron“
The cover art in question can be seen below:
Plush disputed Perron‘s AI assertions in a statement of their own, while also touching on the themes of the controversial song announcement. Outside of the AI-art allegations, Plush have found themselves under fire for choosing to work with David Draiman.
Numerous comments on Plush‘s social media have taken issue with Draiman‘s pro-Israel stance in the ongoing war in Gaza and his past signing of an artillery shell for the Israel Defense Forces. Plush stated:
“The anger, divisiveness, and speculation within the past 24 hours over the announcement of our new single, is the reason behind why the song was written. ‘Why‘ is about the importance of unity in the face of oppression and hatred.
This song —that hasn’t even been released yet— is not political. It is not about war, religion, or erasing anybody’s perspective or opinions. Plush welcomes all different types of beliefs and perspectives in our band and in our fan base. We will continue to use our platform to stand AGAINST hate towards any race, sexuality, gender, or religion.
Our song was made to question the darkest sides of humanity, and encourage you to educate yourself on the atrocities being committed around the world. Speak out for what you believe in. Stand up for those who don’t have a voice and stand for change. The future is in our hands.
Secondly, and contrary to the growing narrative, Plush does not and has NEVER condoned the use of AI design. We hired the graphic designer who worked on our first album to finalize a concept that was brainstormed and photographed by Ashley.
That designer then created the cover that you see now. You will soon see the making of the artwork video Ashley put together in early April.
All parties in the band were provided with the final design months before our announcement. There were no objections.
As artists, we have always continued to support other artists, and are vehemently against AI in creative spaces.
We learned of Bella’s departure the same way you did: from social media. Though we are absolutely heartbroken and shocked by the news, we wish her the best in her future endeavours.
We are so thankful for all of your support and we truly love you all more than you know. We look forward to the release of our new music and seeing you all on tour this summer.
–Moriah, Ashley, and Faith.”
