Naming Your Music Project

Google-ability Test

Your name needs to be discoverable online. Do a Google search—can people find you easily? If your name is too generic (like "The Sound" or "New Music"), you'll get buried in results. Unique, distinctive names rank better and stand out in searches, streaming platforms, and social media. Run the name through Google, Spotify, and your target social platforms to see how visible it would be.

Trademark Considerations

Before settling on a name, do a basic trademark search. Check the USPTO database if you're in the US, or your country's equivalent. You don't need to file immediately, but you should know if someone else owns a registered trademark for that name in the music industry. Protecting your brand early matters as you grow.

Pronounceable and Memorable

Can people say your name out loud without stumbling? Can they remember it after hearing it once? Test your shortlist on friends and see if they can spell it correctly and repeat it back. Names with unusual spelling or pronunciation create friction—people can't search for you if they don't know how to spell it. Memorable names are typically short (1–3 words) and have a distinct sound.

Checking Availability

Secure your name across the platforms that matter to you:

• Domain name (.com if possible)
• Spotify artist profile
• Bandcamp
• Social media (@username on Instagram, TikTok, Twitter, etc.)
• Email address

If the exact name is taken everywhere, consider slight variations. But consistency is key—aim to have the same name across as many platforms as possible so fans can find you.