Holograms have emerged as a method to preserve and celebrate the legacy of deceased musicians. Although the concept has been around since 1858, utilizing them to put on a show has been a newer occurrence. Audiovisual technology is the leader of holographic shows, allowing fans to honor and celebrate artists' lives. Not only can these holographic performances mimic a live image, but they can also showcase personality and vocal talent closely. There are many positives to this innovative technology, however, it sparks debate over respect and authenticity. This alternative recreation of performance forms an illusion of what was once real.

What makes a hologram?

According to Multi Image Group (MIG), the main components of a holographic spectacle are the pulse laser, the split beam, the interference pattern, and the reconstruction.

Pulse Laser

This technology allows holograms to visually appear as if they are moving. A pulse laser is required to create a hologram of a person because it diffuses light to illuminate both the subject and the holographic film.

Split Beam

The laser is split to emit light beams in multiple directions, with distances varying depending on the different wavelengths. The coherence of these light beams is crucial, as it ensures consistency, allowing clear patterns to form and, ultimately, a sharp holographic image.

Interference Pattern

This occurs when two light beams interfere at specific points, generating a pattern of light and dark areas that together shape a three-dimensional (3D) holographic object.

Reconstruction

Holographic reconstruction involves recreating a 3D image using the initial format of an existing hologram. This process requires specific conditions to be met, such as illumination with laser light coming from a certain direction, to ensure accurate visual reproduction. 

How are holograms used on stage?

Famous rock star Roy Orbison, who passed in 1988, was back on tour in 2018. “The virtual version of Orbison [performed] a 16-song spectacular, accompanied by a live orchestra, for a 28-date tour,” wrote Alex Biese of Asbury Park Press. His hologram performed alongside a live band, giving audience members the full experience of his concert. Holographic performances have featured other legacy artists such as Elvis Presley, Michael Jackson, and Whitney Houston. Some shows and events that have utilized holographic images include American Idol, the Billboard Music Awards, and Coachella.

Holographic stage performances combine the components of illusion and spatial sound. Spatial audio is meant to “simulate the sensation of specific instruments, voices, and other sounds,” as described by Bose Corporation. This collectively forms an audiovisual experience, as what is seen and heard is in sync. The technology behind holography allows a single performance to be viewed simultaneously from multiple locations, sparking a sense of global interconnectivity among fans.

Holographic concerts have sparked mixed reactions regarding respect for the deceased artists. Ticket prices have ranged from $39.50 up to $125, and some critics argue that these shows “feel too much like watching a movie.” Additionally, the use of AI to create deepfake technology can sometimes fail to accurately or respectfully imitate an artist in a positive light.

The Takeaway

The use of holograms in performance has spread and become a more common element in shows. For example, at the 48th GRAMMY Awards in 2006, a hologram was used to introduce Madonna in a duet with the band Gorillaz. This added a unique effect to the performance, as Madonna later appeared on stage in person. While some fans praise holographic performances, others find them disrespectful to legacy artists when used improperly.

Some people believe that holographic shows are exploitative. AV experts, do you think the industry's current standards have a more positive or negative impact on maintaining an artist’s legacy? If holograms continue to evolve and become more prevalent, how will they affect us as a global society?