Grimes, the Canadian singer-songwriter known for her eclectic style and innovative approach to music, has expressed her outrage over a Sephora advertisement interrupting her podcast listening experience. In a series of posts on X (formerly Twitter) on April 15, 2025, Grimes, whose real name is Claire Elise Boucher, shared her frustration about being served a beauty ad while trying to listen to a podcast about the "history of war on the American frontier."
According to Grimes, the experience was not just annoying; it was deeply unsettling. She stated that she was "enraged" by the interruption and felt it was an intrusion into her "learning space." She elaborated, saying, "I was very upset that they let the beauty demons into my learning space" and lamented the pervasive nature of beauty standards and advertising in modern culture.
Grimes's ire was particularly focused on the implications of such ads on young women. She voiced her concern about her daughter growing up in a world inundated with these messages, stating, "The insidiousness of what our culture does to young women is insane. I feel enraged knowing I won't be able to protect my daughter from this. What a monumental waste of mental space." Her remarks reflect a broader critique of societal pressures regarding beauty and the expectations placed on women.
In her posts, Grimes speculated that the ad she received might have been the result of AI-targeting algorithms, describing the experience as akin to being stalked by a "demonic ai wraith." While it remains unclear if her experience was indeed due to an AI-targeted ad campaign, her comments highlight growing concerns about the role of artificial intelligence in advertising and its impact on personal experiences.
Grimes's discontent with the ad interruption comes at a time when many consumers are becoming increasingly aware of how targeted advertising shapes their online experiences. Apple Podcasts, where she was listening to the podcast, offers both free and subscription services. The free version includes ads, while subscribers can enjoy an ad-free experience. This dual model has sparked discussions about the ethics of advertising in digital spaces, particularly in environments meant for relaxation or learning.
Interestingly, Grimes has a complex relationship with technology and artificial intelligence. In 2023, she openly stated that she would be willing to have her voice used in AI-generated music, offering to split 50% royalties on any successful AI-generated song that incorporates her voice. Her willingness to embrace AI in music contrasts sharply with her recent frustrations over AI-targeted ads, showcasing the nuanced views she holds about technology's role in art and advertising.
Additionally, Grimes launched an open-source platform called Elf.Tech in 2023, aimed at allowing users to produce AI vocals that sound like her. This initiative reflects her innovative spirit and desire to explore the intersection of technology and creativity. However, her recent experience with the Sephora ad has reignited discussions about the ethical implications of AI in consumerism.
Despite her frustrations, Grimes continues to be a prominent figure in the conversation about the future of music, technology, and the impact of advertising on society. She shares three children—two boys and one girl—with entrepreneur Elon Musk, and her insights into parenting and culture resonate with many fans.
As the dialogue around AI and advertising evolves, Grimes's candid reflections serve as a reminder of the challenges faced by artists and consumers alike in navigating a landscape increasingly dominated by digital marketing and algorithm-driven content. Whether through her music or her social media presence, Grimes remains a voice for those questioning the status quo, advocating for a more thoughtful approach to the intersection of technology and culture.
In a world where advertisements are omnipresent and often intrusive, Grimes's experience underscores the need for a critical examination of how these messages influence our perceptions of beauty and self-worth. Her passionate response to the Sephora ad serves as a call to action for both consumers and corporations to reconsider the impact of their choices in the digital age.
