Iconic punk band loses singer over ‘fake a– robot A.I.’ vocal claims

On Monday, Cleveland punk stalwarts Dead Boys announced their first new album in over 24 years, but then former lead singer Jake Hout suddenly announced his departure from the band.
Why? Hout claims Cleopatra Records will use AI technology to recreate the voice of Stiv Bators, the band’s original lead singer, who died in 1990.
The untitled album, due next year, will boast an all-star lineup, including original Dead Boys guitarist Cheetah Chrome, Glem Burke of Blondie on drums, and Glen Matlock of Sex Pistols on bass. In a press release, Cleopatra Records noted that the new collection of songs would “seamlessly blend Stiv’s distinctive voice with new elements“ and “Cheetah Chrome’s vocals are artfully ‘dusted’ with Stiv’s iconic presence.”
Hout took to his Instagram account to announce his departure on Monday in a fiery rebuke of the added vocal element. “They intend to put out a record with a fakea– robot A.I. Stiv Bators voice on it,” said Hout. “They wanted my voice to be the template for the fake robo-Stiv voice, and I absolutely can not do that.”
The band and Cleopatra Records later responded in a statement: ” Since his departure, the former member has unleashed venom and anger against Dead Boys founder Cheetah Chrome and Cleopatra Records, spreading misinformation and untruths across social media,“ said the statement. “Despite these actions, the band remains united and focused on the future, urging fans with a clear message: “Wait for the record. You won’t be disappointed.” “While the situation has been challenging, we wish him the best in his future endeavors.”
Chrome later responded to Hout’s claims on his personal Instagram account, stating that Bators’ voice would not be used on the new recordings.
“There are no plans I am aware of to use Stiv’s voice on any recordings at this time, said Chrome. ”I am looking to have an open mind and not cut my nose off to spite my face over something I don’t really understand, and kill possible artistic advantages or revenue streams for the entire band over my personal feelings.”
Hout joined the band in 2007 and helped re-record the punk band’s debut album, 1977’s “Young, Loud and Snotty,” for their 40th anniversary in 2017. Dead Boys is looking for “a professional vocalist” to join them for spring concerts.
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Murjani Rawls may be reached at [email protected] and followed on Twitter at @MurjaniRawls.