Gorillaz is an English virtual band formed in 1998 by musician Damon Albarn and artist Jamie Hewlett in London. The group is renowned for its four animated members—2-D, Murdoc Niccals, Noodle, and Russel Hobbs—who exist in a rich fictional universe showcased through videos, interviews, comics, and short films. Gorillaz’s music blends genres like hip hop, electronic, rock, and world music, often featuring a diverse lineup of guest artists. Albarn serves as the band's main creative force. Their self-titled debut album was released in 2001 and included the hit single Clint Eastwood. The follow-up, Demon Days, brought international acclaim with tracks like Feel Good Inc. and DARE. Later albums such as Plastic Beach and The Now Now continued their tradition of collaboration and genre-mixing, while the Song Machine project released in 2020 explored a web series format with frequent new music. Gorillaz has been known for innovative live performances, from hiding musicians to integrating animation on stage and, in recent years, performing with a visible live band. The group has received numerous awards, including a Grammy and several MTV and Brit Awards, and is recognized for both musical innovation and distinctive visual storytelling.