A few years ago we posted an article titled Change Your Name Or Stay The Same. In it we wrote about how there are many factors to consider in any band name change. We noted that music was the main factor, but what if you’re dealing with a legal issue?

A band I know is dealing with exactly that. They’ve been giging locally for a year but not pushing their online presence. Now they are ready to step things up but are finding that their name is already taken on Twitter, Facebook, Bandcamp, Soundcloud, etc. This is a major problem.

Not only does this band have a username problem but it’s likely that they’ll get a cease and desist letter from the other band’s lawyer if they continue. In essence their hand is being forced. Since they’ve only made a name for themselves locally, it won’t be too difficult to change up their name and carry on with their momentum.

But there is work involved. The plan to establish the new name combines both online and offline pushes. They’ll be announcing the name change at their next high profile gig (which is broadcast across the country), and at that time their website, bandcamp, soundcloud, twitter, facebook, YouTube and new photos will all be up with the new name.

Also the plan is to use their name change to their advantage. Fans want to know the new name so the band will leverage that into email list subscribers. Sign up for the email, learn the new name. How effective will that be? Even if you get one more email I say it’s worth it.

It’s also important to remember that many bands have gone through a name change and come out even better. Remember when the New Yardbirds changed their name to Led Zeppelin? Of course you don’t, nobody does, because at the end of the day your fans care about the MUSIC not about your name. So although a name change can feel like a daunting task, as long as you’re keeping up with putting out hot music, no true fans will care.

Music Consciousness
Voyno