r/triplej

suas an ra

Amy Taylor, frontwoman of punk band Amyl and the Sniffers, had her likeness described as “worth in the millions” by her lawyer during a recent federal court hearing in Los Angeles.

That framing sits in tension with the band’s longstanding punk identity — raising a broader question: what happens when an artist rooted in anti-commercial culture becomes treated as a high-value brand asset?

Amy Taylor sued photographer Jamie Nelson in late 2025 over right-of-publicity and likeness claims tied to the sale and exhibition of editorial photographs sold as fine art prints. Taylor was the model in the images. Nelson argues that, as the photographer and copyright holder, she is legally permitted to exhibit and sell the works under copyright law, the First Amendment, and longstanding industry practice.

On May 4, 2026, a federal judge dismissed Taylor’s complaint as pleaded while allowing one more opportunity to amend. The judge also signaled he would not exercise supplemental jurisdiction on Taylor’s remaining state claims. Nelson later filed copyright infringement counterclaims against Taylor and Amyl and the Sniffers, which are expected to proceed in the coming months.

One of the best nights of my life. And he played a few covers.

I was thinking about this today due to recent viral success of a song called 'Freaking Out' by Dexter and the Moonrocks. Its doing very well on Spotify charts and Tik Tok/reels and its pretty hard to escape online now. Interestingly its a pretty straight up rock song, sounding straight out of late 90's early 00's era post grunge. Though, the song was just released in March this year of course. It got me thinking 'I wonder if Triple J will recognise the success of this song and start playing it?' It is alternative sounding and seems to be resonating with younger people. It could actually be an interesting litmus test for station if they do play it because its actually quite different sounding to their playlist at the moment.

So, have there been any other examples of songs by new artists that popped up out of nowhere recently that Triple J jumped on? Lola Young - Messy comes to mind. What qualifies examples like Lola Young for the station? And do you think Triple J should think about giving Dexter and the Moonrocks a go if you consider other recent viral acts? Its pretty much the most viral straight up rock song from a new band released since tik tok got big.

Thoughts? Song link if you havent heard it: Dexter and The Moonrocks - Freakin’ Out (Official Music Video)