Why Do Bands Change Their Names?
Bands often face the daunting task of changing their names for various reasons. Whether it's due to legal issues, a need for rebranding, or simply a desire to reinvent themselves entirely, altering the name can be a significant decision. In this article, we explore some of the most common reasons why bands choose to change their identity.
Conflict with Other Bands
In the highly competitive music industry, name conflicts are a significant hurdle. This can lead to bands changing their names to avoid legal disputes or to stand out more from their contemporaries.
Example: The band Majesty had to change its name to Dream Theater because three other bands were already using the name Majesty. Similarly, The Sweet Shop became The Sweet and later simply known as Sweet, when another band with the same name began to gain traction.
Legal Issues and Ethical Concerns
Legal reasons and ethical concerns can also play a pivotal role in why bands change their names. This often occurs when one of the band members faces legal trouble, or when the band dissolves and splits up.
Example: The band The Lost Prophets changed their name after their lead singer was convicted of child sex offences. They not only changed their name but also dropped all songs from the time they had that singer. This was an ethical decision to distance themselves from negative publicity and maintain a professional image.
Evolution of Sound and Image
Sometimes, a band simply decides to change their image and sound, which necessitates a name change as well. This can be a strategic move to appeal to a new audience or to align with a different musical genre.
Example: Jack London and the Sparrows initially ditched their name to become The Sparrows and revamped their sound and concept, eventually becoming Steppenwolf. Similarly, Roundabout became Deep Purple when the original name no longer seemed fitting.
Respect for Departed Members
In some cases, a band might change their name out of respect for a departing member, or to acknowledge the contributions they made to the band's identity.
Example: When a member holding the rights to the band's name leaves, or when the band wishes to honor the work of a departed member, a new band name can be adopted. This happened with Chad Allan and the Reflections, who became Chad Allan and the Expressions after the original band named the Reflections hit it big.
Reinventing Themselves
Some bands might turn to a name change as a fresh start, a way to break away from their past and chart a new course.
Example: In the early days of their career, Ambrose Slade became Slade to align with the cooler sound and image of the 1970s. Similarly, Legacy became Testament in response to a band already using the name Legacy.
Conclusion
Changing a band's name can be a decision that comes with both opportunities and challenges. It is a strategic move that can help a group establish a unique identity, avoid legal issues, and cater to a changing audience. Whether it’s due to legal reasons, sound evolution, or respect for a departed member, the reasons behind a name change can vary significantly.
Next time you see a band with a new name, you might be witnessing the fruits of a thorough decision-making process. By changing their name, bands aren't just shedding old identities; they're embracing new beginnings.