Choosing a band name...
Aug 29 '00
Believe it or not, choosing a name for a new band can be one of the toughest things about starting a band. You've got to come up with a name that everyone in the band will like and be proud of. I can't tell you how frustrating it is when I show up to band practice with a list of 150 band names I think are cool, only to have every single one of them shot down by the drummer, who prefers a "silly" name for the band instead. Not being able to agree on a band name has actually broken up many a band before they even started!
When choosing a band name, I personally think the name should reflect upon the style of music you play. For instance, VOODOO TORTURE DOLLS might be a good name for a metal or hard rock band, but not for a pop or country act. The POSIES or PIXIES (real bands) are good names for pop bands, but they sure would be lame names for a hardcore act (unless you are a silly band).
When choosing a band name, use your imagination. Also, try to be original. Stay away from the boring one-word band names - HOLE, HELMET, GUS, etc. etc. - you know what I mean. I really hate one word/one syllable band names. I feel that the best way to come up with an original band name that hasn't been used a hundred times already, is to hook up two or three words that sound good. For instance, the coolest and most original band names I've ever heard are: INCREDIBLE CHAINSAW POLICE, MOTHER LOVE BONE, X-PENSIVE WINOS, SPACE AGE PLAYBOYS, ACE DIAMOND BIMBOS, BIG HIPPIE BELT BUCKLE ... catch my drift? (These band names have already been taken, sorry!)
You can always check on the internet to see if there are any other bands with the same name. Or you can do a trademark search - band names can be registered for a trademark, but CANNOT be copyrighted. It costs a couple hundred dollars to register a trademark, last time I checked. The last thing you want is to make it big with your band, only to have some small time band come after you telling you you must change your name. Basically, whoever started using the name first (and can prove it in court) will triumph, trademark or no. Trademark laws are complicated, so the best advice I can give you is to use highly original band names, and do a thorough search for other bands with similar names.
I would also advise against using brand names that are being used by businesses - you know, like PEPSI, COCA COLA, MARLBORO, etc. We all know what happened to the band GREEN JELLO right? Don't use a company's brand name unless you want trouble when your band starts getting big. It might be good for a little publicity, but I don't think it's worth it. Be ORIGINAL!
Now go rock!
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Paulblow
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Location: Seattle, WA
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Paul Blow: A man for all seasons, a man for all reasons.
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