There are many reasons why you need a stage name. Maybe there are too many syllables in your real name, or it has an unpleasant meaning. Whatever the reason, stage names should be memorable and help build your personal image.
Step
Method 1 of 3: Changing Real Name
Step 1. Simplify your name
Usually, the stage name is a simplification of the owner's real name. If your name is too long or difficult to pronounce, try to keep it simple. You can emulate the following examples:
- Yves Saint Laurent (real name Yves Henri Donat Mathieu-Saint-Laurent)
- Rudolph Valentino (real name Rodolfo Alfonso Raffaello Pierre Filibert Guglielmi di Valentina D'Antonguolla)
Step 2. Change your name to westernized
Although controversial, many people choose westernized names to attract overseas audiences. A name change is usually done by swapping an ethnic or difficult-to-pronounce name into a name that is easy to remember. Here we provide some examples:
- Freddie Mercury (real name Farrokh Bulsara)
- Kal Penn (real name Kalpen Suresh Modi)
Step 3. Use your Mother's maiden name
You can use the first or last name of your mother's maiden name, especially if her name is easier to pronounce and remember. The best way to test the appeal of a name is to ask people you know and see how they react. Here we provide some examples:
- Katy Perry (real name Katheryn Elizabeth Hudson) chose her mother's maiden name when switching from gospel music to pop.
- Catherine Deneuve (real name Catherine Fabienne Dorléac) chose her mother's maiden name to distinguish herself from her more famous sister, Françoise.
Step 4. Use your middle name
Make your middle name a first or last name. Usually, a middle name is used to replace a last name that is difficult to pronounce, or a more common name, such as "Smith." One of the most famous examples is Angelina Jolie (real name Angelina Jolie Voight).
Step 5. Use a one-word name
If your first, middle, or last name sounds very unique, feel free to choose just this one. Choose a name that is easiest to pronounce, remember and catch. Here are some examples:
- Beyoncé (real name Beyonce Giselle Knowles)
- Madonna (real name Madonna Louise Ciccone)
- Rihanna (real name Robyn Rihanna Fenty)
- Zendaya (real name Zendaya Maree Stormer Coleman)
Method 2 of 3: Changing Your Name Into an Image
Step 1. Choose a provocative word as your stage name
Create a name that closely relates to the desired genre or culture. For some genres, such as heavy metal or punk rock, choose names that are intimidating and build a wild persona. Add words like “Zombie” or “Depraved” to add a wild feel. Here are some examples for you:
- Sid Vicious (real name John Simon Ritchie)
- Slash (real name Saul Hudson)
Step 2. Use numbers, punctuation, or special characters to make your name unique
This tradition is popular in hip-hop because it emphasizes the street and urban persona. You can follow this trend if you dive into the world of pop or hip-hop music. Here we provide some examples:
- 2pac (real name Tupac Amaru Shakur)
- E-40 (real name Earl Stevens)
- Ke$ha (real name Kesha Rose Sebert)
Step 3. Consider who and what your influence is
Many people choose stage names as references to people or things that inspire them. This is the best form of respect and at the same time pass on a certain tradition to the person or thing that inspires you. Here are some examples:
- The last name Cassie Ramone of Vivian Girls was inspired by the band The Ramones.
- Lady Gaga's name was inspired by Queen's song "Radio Ga Ga".
Method 3 of 3: Create a Name from Zero
Step 1. Think about the meaning of the name you use
All words have meaning, and your stage name should reflect the style, culture, and genre you're trying to work with. Usually people are attracted by names that relate to the genre they are interested in. This is why many surf rock bands use the word “beach”.
Step 2. Make sure your name is easy to find and pronounce
So that other people can easily find your name when looking for it on the internet, don't use a name like "Pencil". Simply put, if your name is entered into the Google search engine, a photo of yourself will appear. Also, if other people can't spell your name after hearing it, it's probably not easy to remember either.
Step 3. Choose a name that has a story behind it
If you pick a stage name that's catchy, catchy, and catchy, people will be curious. When asked, you can't just say "This name sounds cool." It's a good idea to choose a name that has meaning to you, even if only a little.
- Bono got his stage name from his childhood nickname, "bono vox," which is Latin for "good voice."
- Slash admitted that his last name was a nickname in his childhood because he often ran around.
Step 4. Test your name
Try to get as much feedback as possible from your friends and family. Maybe your reference name is too vague, or it's not easy to pronounce in a crowd. You should get a second or third opinion because your stage name is a reflection of how you want the public to see you.
Tips
- Make sure you are comfortable using the chosen stage name. If you're a new artist and starting to build a fan base, changing your name will hinder your progress.
- There are rules in actor communities and associations that only allow one person to use one stage name. If you choose a stage name, make sure that it is not already in use by someone else. It's a good idea to check databases on the internet to make sure your stage name hasn't been taken.
