9 Greatest Hoaxes In Music

1. Pink Floyd Sent Fans On An Endless Treasure Hunt

In 1994, a person who went by the name €œPublius€ began posting on the USENET group (USENET was an early computer network used for sharing files and hosting discussions) alt.music.pink-floyd. Publius began by posting cryptic messages about the band and its fans, urging them to solve €œthe enigma€ and to open their minds €œand communicate with each other€.

Though Publius was initially met with scepticism, he/she/it began to talk of proof:
"To validate the trust of those who believe, as well as to reconcile the doubt of others, I have gone to great lengths to plan the following display of communication: Monday, July 18 East Rutherford, New Jersey Approximately 10:30pm Flashing white lights. There is an enigma. Trust"
This intrigued fans, and indeed the words €œENIGMA PUBLIUS€ were seen in stage lights at the very show Publius stated. This prompted fans to enact a massive search, combing through lyrics, artwork and live performances for new clues. Publius was eager to keep things going, teasing that there was a definitive answer to his puzzle, and even a prize, too. Over the years, however, interest in Publius dwindled. The band themselves claim it was their record company's idea, and at present there is no confirmed solution to the puzzle. Perhaps it was just a very early attempt at viral marketing? https://youtu.be/PhQRCcpjObs?t=3m35s
Contributor
Contributor

Commonly found reading, sitting firmly in a seat at the cinema (bottle of water and a Freddo bar, please) or listening to the Mountain Goats.