4 Classic Rock Bands That Changed Their Weird Initial Names and Achieved Success

A band’s name can be as iconic as their sound, and sometimes it takes a change to set them on the path to success. The four legendary rock bands that, in their early days, went by names that are now mere footnotes in their illustrious careers.

1. The New Yardbirds to Led Zeppelin

Before they soared to fame as Led Zeppelin, one of the most influential rock bands was known as The New Yardbirds. This was a placeholder name meant to fulfill some concert obligations after the original Yardbirds disbanded. However, their potential was too great to be tied down to the past. They needed a fresh start, an identity that could take their innovative sound to new heights.

As the outfit began to develop their unique blend of rock, their name evolved too. It was suggested that their music would go down like a “lead balloon.” Ironically, they twisted this doubtful prediction into a symbol of strength – ‘Led Zeppelin.’ Dropping the ‘a’ from ‘lead’ avoided mispronunciation, and it gave the world a name that signified a musical revolution was on the horizon, with their heavy, guitar-led sound defining a new era in rock music.

2. The Polka Tulk Blues Band to Black Sabbath

The Polka Tulk Blues Band might sound more like a whimsical act than the forefathers of heavy metal, but that’s where Black Sabbath began their journey. The original name came from a brand of talcum powder, but it didn’t take long for the band members to realize it didn’t quite capture the dark, ominous sound they were cultivating. The change was imminent, as their music took on a heavier, more foreboding tone that required something more impactful.

Taking inspiration from a horror movie title, the band took up the name Black Sabbath and history was made. Their new name reflected the themes of darkness and doom that were prevalent in their music—a perfect fit for the band that went on to be pioneers in the heavy a rock genre, influencing countless musicians and earning a massive global following.

3. Smile to Queen

Before there was the regal rock band known famously as Queen, there was Smile. Composed of what would become two of Queen’s founding members, Smile hinted at the positive vibe and energetic performances that the band was all about. But as their musical ambition grew, the simplicity of Smile did not fully encapsulate the grandiosity and theatricality they were destined to embrace.

Thus, a transformation occurred, and Queen emerged. The name was bold, universal, and memorable, embodying the band’s flair for the dramatic and their penchant for crafting anthemic tunes. They became a musical powerhouse, creating some of the most enduring rock hits to date and amassing a royal following worldwide.

4. The Detours to The Who

Imagine referring to the band The Who, as The Detours. Early in their career, this was the name that the group used. It had a certain charm to it but as their musical style edged towards being more aggressive and distinct, it became clear that the name The Detours wouldn’t stand out in the burgeoning music scene.

The turning point came when they discovered another band shared the same name. To avoid confusion and to establish a more unique presence, they selected The Who – a short, punchy name that left an impression. It seemed to ask a question that echoed with curiosity and beckoned listeners. With this new name, the group’s fame exploded, and they carved out their place in rock history with their raw energy and indelible live performances.