Dead Boys, the legendary Cleveland punk band formed in 1976, announced on Monday (Nov. 25) that a new album is in the works. Led by original guitarist Cheetah Chrome, the record boasts an all-star lineup featuring Cheetah on guitar and vocals, Clem Burke (Blondie) on drums, and Glen Matlock (Sex Pistols) on bass.
The announcement, however, quickly sparked controversy after former vocalist Jake Hout revealed the reason for his departure. According to Hout, the band’s label, Cleopatra Records, planned to use AI technology to recreate the voice of Stiv Bators, the late Dead Boys frontman who became a punk icon for his raw energy and rebellious spirit.
The untitled album, slated for release next year, will also feature guest appearances from James Williamson (The Stooges) and Michael Monroe (Hanoi Rocks). It will be released through the aforementioned Cleopatra Records, which has previously utilized AI to create ‘original’ posthumous vocal tracks for artists like DMX.
Hout addressed the situation in a detailed Instagram post, sharing:
“The shortest I can get this story is this: Cleopatra said it would be an A.I. record but Cheetah assured me it would NOT. But the opening line of the contract reads… ‘Artist has agreed that such Performances shall be Vocal performances (the “Performances”) utilizing artificial intelligence (AI) technologies for purposes of creating works based on the original voice of Stiv Bators, to be used on Company’s master recordings of the songs.’
…So I said No. I told Cheetah immediately I would be forced to quit publicly. And tell everybody why. I reminded him frequently. Daily by the end. To no avail. There’s a massive irony here—I actually sympathize with the ‘No Stiv, no Dead Boys’ crowd. I always have! But for me personally, AI is the bridge too far. I always tried to do right by Stiv and bring his music to life with heart and blood and passion and spirit. A.I. ain’t got none a that stuff.
I love you all so much and will miss you bad, but my path in this has come to its end.”
In response to the controversy, Dead Boys have announced their search for a new vocalist and issued a statement addressing Jake Hout’s allegations.
“The Dead Boys are actively seeking a new vocalist following the recent dismissal of their previous frontman. It became clear that fans were unwilling to embrace him as a replacement for the late, great Stiv Bators, whose legendary presence remains irreplaceable.
Since his departure, the former member has unleashed venom and anger against Cheetah Chrome and Cleopatra Records, spreading misinformation across social media. Despite these actions, the band remains united and focused on the future. To fans, our message is clear: ‘Wait for the record. You won’t be disappointed.’
Cleopatra Records fully supports Dead Boys during this period of transition and eagerly anticipates the release of their highly anticipated new album next year.”
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