Grian Chatten says Fontaines D.C. had no idea AI was used in ‘Marianne’ video: “I don’t condone it”

Fontaines D.C., the acclaimed Dublin rock band, recently confronted an unexpected controversy regarding their music video for the single ‘Marianne’. The group, who unveiled their fifth studio album 'Dopamine Chamber' in October 2025 to considerable acclaim, discovered post-release that artificial intelligence had been employed in the production of the video without their knowledge or consent.

Lead vocalist Grian Chatten disclosed to nme.com that the revelation came as a shock to the band members, who were not informed about the use of AI tools by the visual effects team working on the project. Chatten described the discovery as startling, especially because neither their management nor their record label had been made aware of this development during the creative process.

The ‘Marianne’ video credits included “AI artists,” which spurred Chatten to seek clarity from his management. His inquiry revealed that a segment of the visual effects workflow incorporated AI, a fact that had been kept from the band despite the involvement of over a hundred collaborators in the video’s production.

This incident struck a particularly ironic chord with Chatten, given the thematic concerns of 'Dopamine Chamber,' which delves into subjects like social isolation, technological dependence, and the fragmentation of human connection. The use of AI—seen by Chatten as a potential erasure of human creativity—stood in direct opposition to the album’s core messages.

In response, Fontaines D.C. has taken concrete steps to prevent a recurrence. The band has amended their future contracts to explicitly prohibit the integration of AI in their music videos, signaling a clear stance against the technology’s role in their artistic output.

Chatten has expressed strong reservations about AI’s expanding footprint in creative industries, emphasizing his belief that it diminishes the essence of human artistry. He conveyed concerns that AI could erode the unique qualities that define human expression, framing this as a serious threat to cultural and creative identity.

'Dopamine Chamber' itself has drawn widespread positive attention, including a five-star review from nme.com, which praised the album as a compelling reflection on contemporary anxieties. The record features standout tracks such as the lead single ‘Marianne,’ the haunting ‘Tongue,’ and a notable collaboration with Rosalía titled ‘Where Is Gone?’

The collaboration with Rosalía marked a significant milestone for the band, with Chatten describing the experience as a career highlight. Following the album release, Fontaines D.C. performed an intimate set at London’s Roundhouse, with proceeds benefiting the mental health charity CALM.

Looking ahead, the band is gearing up for an extensive tour across the UK, Ireland, and beyond. Among the highlights are two performances at Slane Castle and a double show at Manchester’s Heaton Park, supported by artists such as Hayley Williams, Little Simz, and Viagra Boys. Additionally, the band has expanded their 2027 tour itinerary to include dates in Italy, Germany, Japan, Australia, and New Zealand.

Fontaines D.C. will also headline the Primavera Sound festival in Barcelona in June 2026, further underscoring their rising international profile. Meanwhile, Chatten has hinted at a forthcoming solo album, suggesting a period of personal artistic exploration once the band completes their current touring commitments.

The AI controversy surrounding the ‘Marianne’ video has prompted Fontaines D.C. to take a definitive stand on technology’s intersection with creativity, reinforcing their commitment to preserving human artistry in their work. As their career continues to evolve, the group remains focused on delivering authentic music experiences while navigating the challenges posed by emerging technologies.