The band did a lot of musical experimentation and brought about a few of nihilism through their music, meaning belief that human existence has no real meaning, purpose, or inherent value. It is said that they assisted in bringing about the rise of punk rock and alternative rock. Their debut album, released in 1967, was The Velvet Underground and Nico, featuring singer Nico, whom the band joined with. This album became the 13th Greatest Album of All Time and was dubbed “The Most Prophetic Rock Album Ever Made” by Rolling Stone in 2003.