Last updated by Molly Saxby on Friday 22nd August 2025

When Gorillaz first appeared at the turn of the millennium, many dismissed them as a novelty. A cartoon band with fictional members seemed destined to fade quickly. Yet over two decades later, Gorillaz remain one of the most innovative and influential acts in modern music, blending genres, visuals, and storytelling in a way no other band has achieved. This is the story of their journey — from virtual band to global stage.

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The concept that changed everything

Created in 1998 by musician Damon Albarn and artist Jamie Hewlett, Gorillaz introduced the idea of a virtual band with animated characters — 2D, Murdoc, Noodle, and Russel. The project was both a satire of pop culture and a creative experiment, combining Albarn’s genre-crossing music with Hewlett’s comic-inspired visuals.

Early success with Clint Eastwood

The band’s self-titled debut album (2001) brought international attention. Singles like ‘Clint Eastwood’ and ‘19-2000’ showcased a mix of hip-hop, rock, and electronic influences, establishing Gorillaz as more than a gimmick. Their live shows, which featured elaborate visuals and projections of the characters, further cemented their unique identity.

The global breakthrough – Demon Days

In 2005, Gorillaz released Demon Days, a critically acclaimed album featuring tracks such as ‘Feel Good Inc.’, ‘DARE’, and ‘Dirty Harry’. Collaborating with artists like De La Soul and Shaun Ryder, the album achieved global success and elevated Gorillaz to the status of true innovators in modern music.

Experimentation and evolution

From Plastic Beach to Humanz, Gorillaz have continued to reinvent their sound, working with an ever-expanding roster of collaborators, including Snoop Dogg, Lou Reed, and Vince Staples. Their ability to merge animation, music, and live performance has kept them ahead of trends while retaining a loyal global fanbase.

Top tracks that define Gorillaz

Some of Gorillaz’s most iconic songs include:

  • ‘Clint Eastwood’ (Gorillaz)
  • ‘19-2000’ (Gorillaz)
  • ‘Feel Good Inc.’ (Demon Days)
  • ‘DARE’ (Demon Days)
  • ‘On Melancholy Hill’ (Plastic Beach)
  • ‘Stylo’ (Plastic Beach)
  • ‘Saturnz Barz’ (Humanz)
  • ‘Cracker Island’ (Cracker Island)

The global stage

Despite being “virtual,” Gorillaz have headlined festivals worldwide, from Glastonbury to Coachella. Their concerts are immersive experiences that merge live musicianship with animated visuals, proving that their concept works just as powerfully on the stage as it does on screen.

The legacy of Gorillaz

What began as a bold experiment has become a cultural phenomenon. Gorillaz not only pioneered the idea of a virtual band but also pushed the boundaries of what popular music could look and sound like. Their legacy lies in their innovation, collaboration, and fearless creativity.

How to experience it in style

A Gorillaz show is unlike any other — a blend of music, art, and theatre. With Seat Unique’s VIP and hospitality packages, you can enjoy their groundbreaking performances in the best possible way.

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