An AI-generated music project named Bleeding Verse has accumulated more monthly listeners on Spotify in just two months than the human band it cites as an inspiration, Holding Absence, which has spent a decade building its audience. The case highlights a growing debate in the music industry about the role of artificial intelligence in creative fields and its impact on human artists.
The AI project, which launched in late July, has reached nearly 900,000 monthly listeners, while the established Welsh band currently has just under 850,000. The rapid rise of the AI-generated music has prompted a strong reaction from Holding Absence's frontman, who called the situation a "wake up call" for the music community.
Key Takeaways
- An AI music project, Bleeding Verse, gained 897,349 monthly Spotify listeners in two months.
- The human band Holding Absence, an inspiration for the AI, has 847,638 monthly listeners after a decade of work.
- Holding Absence frontman Lucas Woodland described the situation as "shocking" and "insulting."
- Spotify has stated it will not ban AI-generated music but will address platform manipulation and encourage disclosure.
A Tale of Two Bands: Human vs. AI
The core of the issue lies in the listener data from Spotify. Bleeding Verse, an entity that uses artificial intelligence to create music, has quickly found a substantial audience. According to Spotify's public data, the AI project has 897,349 monthly listeners since its debut in July.
In contrast, Holding Absence, a post-hardcore band from Wales, has cultivated a fanbase over the course of a decade. The band, which has toured internationally and released multiple albums, currently holds 847,638 monthly listeners on the same platform.
This disparity shows the speed at which AI-generated content can gain traction, particularly when promoted by platform algorithms. While Holding Absence built its following through live performances, recordings, and direct fan engagement, Bleeding Verse achieved a larger listener base in approximately eight weeks.
By the Numbers
- AI Band (Bleeding Verse): 897,349 monthly listeners
- Human Band (Holding Absence): 847,638 monthly listeners
- Time to Reach Listeners (Bleeding Verse): ~2 months
- Time to Reach Listeners (Holding Absence): ~10 years
An Artist's Perspective on AI Competition
Lucas Woodland, the frontman for Holding Absence, expressed his concerns publicly about the rise of Bleeding Verse. He highlighted the emotional and professional impact of seeing an AI imitator surpass his band's listenership so quickly.
"It’s shocking, it’s disheartening, it’s insulting. Most importantly – it’s a wake up call. Oppose AI music, or bands like us stop existing."
Woodland's statement reflects a growing anxiety among creators that their work could be devalued or replaced by AI systems that can produce similar content at a much faster rate. The issue is not just about competition but also about the perceived authenticity and effort involved in creating art.
Defining the AI Project
Bleeding Verse is transparent about its use of artificial intelligence. Its Spotify biography states it uses "human lyrics, turned into songs with AI." A more detailed description on its YouTube channel clarifies its creative process and influences.
The bio reads: "Inspired by artists like Dayseeker and Holding Absence, we blend ambient textures, soaring vocals, and poetic lyricism... Lyrics from the heart. AI-assisted instrumentation and vocals." This open disclosure places Bleeding Verse in a different category from AI projects that attempt to impersonate human artists without attribution.
Spotify's Position on AI-Generated Music
The controversy comes as streaming platforms grapple with how to manage the influx of AI-generated content. Spotify has clarified that it does not intend to implement a blanket ban on music created with artificial intelligence.
Platform Policy on AI
During a recent press conference, Spotify's VP and Global Head of Music Product, Charlie Hellman, outlined the company's approach. He stated that the platform aims to support artists who use AI as a creative tool rather than penalize them.
"We’re not here to punish artists for using AI authentically and responsibly," Hellman explained. "We hope that artists’ use of AI production tools will enable them to be more creative than ever."
However, Spotify is taking steps to address misuse of the technology. The company announced plans to combat:
- Mass uploads and duplicate tracks
- SEO manipulation and other algorithmic hacks
- Artificially short tracks designed to abuse royalty systems
- Impersonation and fraudulent content
Spotify is also developing a system for artists to disclose their use of AI in the music creation process. While this disclosure will be encouraged, it is not currently planned to be mandatory.
Listener Reactions and Algorithmic Influence
The rapid growth of Bleeding Verse's audience appears to be driven in part by Spotify's recommendation algorithm. Users on platforms like Reddit have reported that songs by the AI band have been suggested to them, often alongside the human bands that inspired the music.
The quality of the AI-generated music has also been a point of discussion. Some listeners have been impressed, with one user noting, "This is the first time I’ve been fooled by AI. It’s getting scarily good."
Another user shared a more complex emotional reaction, stating that a Bleeding Verse song made them "tear up." Upon learning the song was AI-generated, they reported feeling "strangely betrayed." This sentiment touches on the debate over whether art created by a non-human entity can evoke genuine emotion and what it means for the listener's connection to the music.
While Bleeding Verse has found success on Spotify, its presence on other social platforms is minimal. An Instagram account associated with the project has just under 2,000 followers, whereas Holding Absence has a verified account with more than 83,000 followers, demonstrating a stronger human connection with its audience beyond just streaming numbers.