Can I name my band after a song?

Answered by John Hunt

You can definitely name your band after a song! In fact, it is quite common for bands to take inspiration from songs when choosing their names. Many famous bands have done this throughout history. While there may be some legal considerations to keep in mind, generally speaking, there are no legal repercussions for naming your band after a song.

Naming a band after a song can be a great way to pay homage to a song or band that has had a significant influence on your musical journey. It can also help create a connection between your band and potential fans who are familiar with the song. When people hear your band’s name, they may immediately recognize the connection and be more inclined to check out your music.

However, it is important to note that there may be other bands out there with the same or similar names. This is something to consider when choosing a name for your band, regardless of whether it is based on a song or not. You want to ensure that your band’s name is unique enough to avoid confusion with existing bands. Conducting thorough research and checking if the name is already in use by another band or trademarked is always a good idea.

Additionally, it’s worth mentioning that while there may not be legal repercussions for naming your band after a song, it’s always a good idea to respect the original artist’s work. This means avoiding any potential confusion or association that could harm their reputation or create a false impression of collaboration. It’s generally best to choose a band name that is unique and distinct enough to avoid any potential issues.

In my personal experience, I have seen numerous bands name themselves after songs or even albums. Some examples include Fall Out Boy, who took their name from a reference in The Simpsons, and Panic! at the Disco, who derived their name from the lyrics of a song by Name Taken. These bands have successfully built their own identities despite sharing names with songs or other works.

Naming your band after a song is absolutely possible and has been done by many bands in the past. While there may be some legal considerations and potential for confusion, with proper research and a unique twist, you can create a band name that pays homage to a song while establishing your own identity in the music industry.