Band 101- Google Me This.

You may have noticed that the last couple of strips have addressed the difficult and friendship-threatening task of naming a band. That's right, if you are not careful with how you approach this subject, the future of your band may be at stake. I've seen bands fall apart before they ever got started because no one could agree on a name.

The first thing to remember, obviously, is to decide ahead of time with your band how a name will be chosen. Maybe one of you is clearly the band leader and that person will have the final say, or maybe you'll take suggestions and pick them out of a hat. However, I would not recommend taking a vote. The quickest way to lose a friend is to vote against their idea. If you have two friends in the band, you have already lost before the voting has begun.

Next, choosing a good band name is essential. From the first moment you e-mail your new band name to your mom, or when you make that first photocopied flier, you are beginning to build up name recognition. It would be a shame to undo the recognition you've achieved because you have to change your band name.

There are three types of bad band names:

1. The name doesn't fit the style of band you play.

Examples: A hardcore metal band named "Sunshine and Flowers" or an upbeat pop rock
band named "Death Face." You get the idea.

2. The name fits, but someone else already has it.

Examples: Naming your band "The Rolling Stones" or "R.E.M."

3. The name is so generic, it is impossible to find you on the internet.

Examples: Naming your band "Snow" or "The Paper."

Two out of the three issues here can be solved on one simple website: google.com.
Seriously, when you think you've got a good one, do a little searching around. If another band pops up with that name, don't use it. If 24 million search results appear for the name you've picked, don't use it.

Finally, once you've agreed on a good band name, establish a presence on the internet right away. Buy the domain name for your band, get a MySpace account with your name, and sign up for any other promotion related accounts you intend to use right away. It would be terrible if someone snatched these out from under you. (By the way, if the MySpace name or domain name is already taken, maybe you need to pick another band name. See above.)

Alright, humans. Hopefully you've learned a little bit here. Remember, even if you're not starting a band, use Google before naming anything (Especially your kids! This could help prevent your kid from being made fun of in the future!)

Brax.