Posted by The estate of the late Rich Homie Quan has released a new music video for the track “Still Dead,” a song reportedly inspired by the tragic passing of PnB Rock. However, the visual presentation has become a lightning rod for controversy, as the entire project was constructed using artificial intelligence.
The video features an AI-rendered version of the late rapper navigating a cemetery, spending time with his children, and performing in a studio setting. While the estate likely intended the visual to serve as a modern tribute to the artist’s legacy, the reception from his dedicated fanbase has been sharply divided.
Social media platforms were quickly flooded with criticism regarding the use of AI to recreate the likeness of a deceased artist. “Y’all could’ve gave posthumous music without the AI, lol. This just made me sad for real,” one user commented. Another expressed stronger disapproval, stating, “This is disgusting. Let him rest.”
Conversely, some supporters have defended the creative choice, citing the involvement of the artist’s estate and the potential financial benefits for his surviving family. “He has young kids,” one fan noted on X (formerly Twitter). “As long as his estate has authorized it and his family will get paid, it’s ok. He likely was the breadwinner.”
Rich Homie Quan passed away in September 2024 following an accidental drug overdose. Since his death, his estate has worked to keep his music alive, releasing projects such as Forever Going In and the compilation album Legacy of Hits, which showcased career-defining tracks like “Type of Way” and “Flex (Ooh, Ooh, Ooh).”
The debate surrounding “Still Dead” highlights the growing tension within the music industry regarding the ethics of using AI to generate content for deceased performers. As technology continues to evolve, the conversation about balancing artistic tribute with the preservation of an artist’s dignity remains a critical issue for estates and fans alike.