what is an industry plant

An industry plant is a term used in the music industry to describe an artist who presents themselves as being independent and having organically grown their fanbase, but who has actually been set up by a label or other industry entity to create the illusion of an organic following. The term is often used to describe artists who have gained rapid fame and success seemingly out of nowhere, leaving many questioning the authenticity of their rise to stardom. The idea of authenticity is very important in music, particularly when its artistry relies heavily on personal experience, whether through songwriting or other means. Being called an industry plant is not flattering and has negative connotations attached to it.