One of the most important things about a rock band is its name. You could have the greatest musicians of all time form a band, but if they have a name like The Wiggles or The Clique Girls, they’re not going to gather many fans.

If you’ve tried, you know that coming up with a catchy name for your band is a difficult feat. It can seem as though all the good names are taken, and you’re just completely out of ideas. But fear no more, because I’ve created a crackerjack system to help you give your rock outfit the exciting title it deserves!

There are seven basic types of band names. Sure, there are those who go rogue and name their band in a totally random format, usually inspired by an extraordinary life experience, but some people simply don’t have enough interesting events in their life. If you know that that’s your case (be honest), then you might as well go with one of the traditional band title formats. If you’re unfamiliar with these, here are your seven options for your name.

Just choose one of the formats and fill in the blanks with the type of word directed. It’s sort of like a Mad Libs.

Format 1)

The (plural noun)______________

Examples: The Beatles, The Cars, or The Kinks

Though only 3 examples are shown, the list of bands that name themselves according to that format is endless. This is probably because it is the easiest format to use, since all you have to do is think of a noun and make it be plural.

Format 2)

The (“ing” verb OR adjective)______________ (plural noun)____________

Example: The Rolling Stones, The Red Hot Chili Peppers, or The Silver Beatles

Some people try to say that this format is exactly the same as Format 1, accept for one added word. They are correct, but nobody cares.

Format 3)

(name)______________________ and the *  (plural noun)____________

*if desired, an adjective or “ing” verb may be added here

Example: Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers or Ricky and the Red Streaks

Nobody really uses this format unless their name is catchy or exciting.

Format 4)

(random letters)________(random numbers)________

Example: U2 or MC5

For the best results when using this format, try sticking to less than four didgits, and say it out loud to make sure it doesn’t sound stupid. M94585749473975 is not a good band name. Neither is your phone number.

Format 5)

(name)_____________________

Example: Billy Joel, Van Halen, or Beck

It doesn’t have to be your real name, if you were wondering. It could be anyone’s. Change your name if you see fit, just don’t name your band Jimmithy Schwazz.

Format 6)

(noun)_________(noun)__________

Example: Arcade Fire or Pizza Pizza

Make sure you do not use two animals as your name. You may think that naming your band Cat Dog would make you sound rebellious, witty, and contradictory, but it doesn’t. It just sounds stupid.

Format 7)

(random medical condition or procedure)______________________________

Example: Spinal Tap or Paranoia

Sexually transmitted diseases do not make for good band names.

If you’re not satisfied with the results, either try plugging in different words or use another format. Don’t name your band Jimmy James and the Dancing Keyboards just because it was the first thing you got when you tried the system. Experiment! Keep your mind open!

Another thing; once you’ve found a name that you think you’re satisfied with, think about it a little. Make sure it truly is an exceptional (and socially acceptable) band name. Do you think any place would ever book a band called Explosive Diarrhea?