Are band names copyrighted?

A name (brand name, band name) cannot be protected by copyright. Copyright is only one form of intellectual property (IP). There are other forms, like trademarks, patents and trade secrets. Each one protects very different types of things.

Can you use a band name that is already taken?

If you try to register a trademark that’s already taken, not only do you not get the trademark, but the filing fees will not be refunded. If someone is using your ideal band name and they haven’t trademarked it, you can still get the trademark for that name to use it for your band.

Can two bands have the same name on Spotify?

Often, bands/artists that have the same or similar names get placed under the same Spotify artist profile or an album gets placed under the wrong artist profile. In order to get this corrected, we need to file something called an Artist Separation.

Can two people have the same artist name?

Streaming services sometimes group artists together who have the same (or similar) names, or create a new artist page instead of using your existing page. In the world of actors, for example, no two actors are allowed to have the same name as each other and both belong to SAG (the actors union).

How do you legally own a band name?

How to Legally Trademark a Band Name

1. Know what you want to register.
2. Decide who will own the trademark.
3. Decide what you wish to protect.
4. Perform a search.
5. Complete the application.
6. Submit your filing fee.
7. Check the status.
8. Keep your trademark alive.

What if someone has the same band name?

So, yes, similar band names happen, and they can cause sticky trademark issues. Therefore, it is helpful to be equipped with proper trademark registration to ensure your trademark ownership.

Is it okay to be in two bands at once?

absolutely join both. Unless you’re uber one dimensional in your musical tastes, neither band will wholly satisfy your musical needs on their own. Being in two bands can be way more fulfilling on that front. As far as what to expect, just expect to be at twice as many band practices as you would with one band.

Can I name my band after another band?

So, yes, similar band names happen, and they can cause sticky trademark issues. Therefore, it is helpful to be equipped with proper trademark registration to ensure your trademark ownership. You should talk to a lawyer to see how trademark law applies to your unique situation and what solutions will work best for you.

Do you need to trademark band name?

Band names are protectable under trademark law, because like brand names they allow us to distinguish one band’s music and identity from another. “Similar to anyone wanting to establish a mark, a rock band needs to protect its name as soon as it is actually used,” he explained.