"scapegoats" is the correct word in this.
both of the guys were struggling singers trying to get a break.
they were told that if they went along with the scam
they would slowly be allowed to start using their own voices on future songs
once the group had become successful.
it never happened, it wasn't their fault, but they took all the blame and were blacklisted from music.
and like the article states, NOW it happens all the time and no one cares!