In a statement saying that “the morals of the band and affiliated parties do not align with” her own, guitarist Bella Perron has left the hard rock band Plush.
Tuesday, June 10, 2025, began with the band announcing that its new single, “Why,” co-written and co-produced by David Draiman of Disturbed, will be released on June 20 and sharing the artwork accompanying the song. That night, Perron posted a statement to social media claiming that the art had been generated by artificial intelligence and that she would not have gone along with it had she known in advance.
The remaining members of Plush—vocalist/guitarist Moriah Formica, bassist Ashley Suppa and drummer Faith Powell—released their own statement the next day saying the art was not AI-generated but created by a graphic designer based on concept “brainstormed and photographed by” Suppa.
The statements from the band and Perron are below.
Meanwhile, Plush is set to embark on a North American headline tour from July to September 2025. Find those dates in the graphic below. There is no word yet on who will fill Perron’s spot on guitar.
Plush released its self-titled debut album in 2021, followed by the “Find the Beautiful” EP in 2024 and the “Live USA ’24” live album in 2025.
Bella Perron’s statement:
“AI art does not align with my values. If I had known the cover art was going to be AI-generated, I would never have signed my name onto it.
“The morals of the band and affiliated parties do not align with my own, and I feel it is best to take a step away.
“This is a matter I’ve felt torn about since first being hired as a musician for Plush, but I cannot go forward.
“I am grateful for the opportunities being Plush provided me with.
“Effective today, I am no longer a hired gun associated with Plush Rocks, Inc.”
Plush’s statement:
“The anger, divisiveness, and speculation within the past 24 hours over the announcement of our new single, is the reason behind why the song was written.
“Why” is about the importance of unity in the face of oppression and hatred.
“This song —that hasn’t even been released yet— is not political. It is not about war, religion, or erasing anybody’s perspective or opinions. Plush welcomes all different types of beliefs and perspectives in our band and in our fan base.
“We will continue to use our platform to stand AGAINST hate towards any race, sexuality, gender, or religion.
“Our song was made to question the darkest sides of humanity, and encourage you to educate yourself on the atrocities being committed around the world.
“Speak out for what you believe in. Stand up for those who don’t have a voice and stand for change. The future is in our hands.
“Secondly, and contrary to the growing narrative, Plush does not and has NEVER condoned the use of AI design. We hired the graphic designer who worked on our first album to finalize a concept that was brainstormed and photographed by Ashley.
“That designer then created the cover that you see now. You will soon see the making of the artwork video Ashley put together in early April.
“All parties in the band were provided with the final design months before our announcement. There were no objections. As artists, we have always continued to support other artists, and are vehemently against AI in creative spaces.
“We learned of Bella’s departure the same way you did: from social media.
“Though we are absolutely heartbroken and shocked by the news, we wish her the best in her future endeavours.
“We are so thankful for all of your support and we truly love you all more than you know.
“We look forward to the release of our new music and seeing you all on tour this summer.”
Plush needs to come back to Huntsville, Alabama, You all were great!!! You all will continue to rock!!! You have great songs!!!