How To Choose A Band Name
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A band name that is memorable, trademarkable, and yours.
Estimated Cost: FREE
Estimated Time: 1 hour preparation with immediate results.
Indie Guide Categories: Domain Registrars
What Do You Need to Do This
Ideas for a band name
Edit What's Needed View History
Directions
1. Search band name databases and MySpace for the names you wish to use.
Check out the site Bandname.com; it is a global directory of band names. Also search MySpace since it has such a huge directory of band names. If another band has the name, think about choosing something else.
2. Perform a web search on all the major search engines.
If the name database and MySpace come up clear, search for your band name ideas on Google, Yahoo!, Bing, and other search engines to see if other bands have used it. Also, make sure it's not a term that's so common many businesses or other sites come up. If these searches come up clear, you can go on to the next step.
3. Check domain registrars to reserve your name.
Your band will need a website, so make sure that the domain name with your band name is available. We have a list of domain registrars here where you can search to see if your desired name is available. If it's taken, you may want to find a new name. Your domain name will be printed on all of your posters, merch, albums, and web presences, so you need to be able to live with whatever name you choose.
4. For US bands, search the US Trademark Office online.
The US Trademark Office has a simple online search where you can check if your desired name has been trademarked. The trademark search form can be found here. if this comes up clear, it is a good first step and can help you rule out names that might already be taken. Trademarks are registered in classes, so you will want to make sure, at a minimum, that a name that you choose is not yet taken in the following classes:
- Class 9 – the sale of digital media (CDs, downloadable audio files, etc.) under your band name;
- Class 16 – the use of your band name in posters, pamphlets, newsletters, and other promotional material; and
- Class 25 – the use of your marks on t-shirts and other merchandise with your brand.
Note that if you are serious about using your band name as a trademark, we recommend using a lawyer to make certain that you create a name that is truly yours. For detailed information about trademarking a band name, see the Indie Band Survival Guide for US members, or the DIY Music Manual for UK/Worldwide.
Next Steps
There is nothing to do after completing this.