Gorillaz

Watch Gorillaz

  • 1998

Gorillaz is a virtual band created by musician Damon Albarn and artist Jamie Hewlett. The band's music combines elements of rock, hip hop, and electronic music, and features guest appearances by a wide range of artists. The band's members are fictional characters who exist within the Gorillaz universe. These characters include 2D, the lead vocalist and keyboardist; Murdoc Niccals, the bassist and self-proclaimed leader of the band; Noodle, the guitarist; and Russel Hobbs, the drummer. Each member has their own unique backstory, which is gradually revealed over the course of the band's various releases.

Gorillaz first burst onto the scene in 2001 with their self-titled debut album, which featured hits like "Clint Eastwood" and "Tomorrow Comes Today". The album was critically acclaimed and established the band as a significant force within the music industry.

Despite the fact that the band members are virtual, they have always been accompanied by a live band of human musicians during their concerts. These live performances are unique and often feature elaborate visual effects, including projections of the band's animated avatars.

Following the success of their debut album, Gorillaz continued to release critically acclaimed music and push the boundaries of what it means to be a virtual band. They released albums like Demon Days and Plastic Beach, both of which feature collaborations with a wide range of artists from across the musical spectrum.

Gorillaz's music has always been concerned with social and political issues, and the band's lyrics often explore topics like political corruption, mental health, and environmentalism. This is particularly evident on their most recent album, Humanz, which was released in 2017. The album features collaborations with artists like Vince Staples, Popcaan, and Danny Brown, and deals with themes like the rise of right-wing populism and the need for unity in a divided world.

Over the years, Gorillaz have become known not just for their music, but also for their innovative use of technology and their elaborate storytelling. In addition to their music videos and live performances, the band has also released a variety of other media, including a weekly web series called "Gorillaz TV", a mobile app, and even a virtual reality experience.

Overall, Gorillaz is a band that defies categorization. They exist in their own world, both literally and figuratively, and have proven time and time again that they are capable of pushing the boundaries of what is possible in music and technology. Whether you're a fan of rock, hip hop, or electronic music, there's something about Gorillaz that's sure to captivate you.