Should my band change our name?

Question

We have had the same name from 2002 , changed members in 2003, then took a break, changed members again, and now are back in 2007. Some of my friends have said, "Keep the name because it is something some people already know. Build off that." (We aren't famous or anything..) However, part of me wants to start fresh. Should we change our name or keep it the same? Please defend your answer. Thank you in advance. :) :)

Answer 1

change your name- start off new.
do the "new name" also formerly known as "old name"
for a bit so everyone that knew you before - will know you again. :-)

Answer 2

Change your name, dude.

This is the same argument that pertains to Guns n' Roses. The only remaining member was Axle Rose after they split. Yet, he hired new guns to revive the band. No Slash. No Duff. He should have changed the name.

I agree that a spin-off of your old name could work. The other suggestion of using "formerly known as" is also a great suggestion. But, since you aren't really famous, yet, it may not matter. Just remember that band names are hard to come up with. It took my band over a month to find one that wasn't taken and didn't suck.

So, good luck and use the internet to check for trademarked band names. It has to be trademarked in order for it to be off-limits. Otherwise.... it's free game.

Answer 3

change it, but use a variation of your old name.