The Polka Tulk Blues Band & 5 Other Original Classic Rock Band Names We’re Glad Didn’t Stick
Tony Iommi: A guitarist whose name is iconic as his playing. It’s a good thing he didn’t have to change it like Black Sabbath changed their name. Some of rock’s…
LOS ANGELES, CA – JANUARY 26: (L-R) Recording artists Tony Iommi, Ozzy Osbourne and Geezer Butler of Black Sabbath pose in the press room during the 56th GRAMMY Awards at Staples Center on January 26, 2014 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Frazer Harrison/Getty Images)
Photo by Frazer Harrison/Getty ImagesTony Iommi: A guitarist whose name is iconic as his playing. It's a good thing he didn't have to change it like Black Sabbath changed their name.
Some of rock's biggest bands, of course, had to go through several monikers until they found just the right one. In honor of Iommi's birthday day (February 19), here are six original band names we're glad didn't stick.
The Polka Tulk Blues Band (Black Sabbath)
Black Sabbath's original name apparently came from the brand name of a talcum powder Ozzy Osbourne’s mother used. Yeah…definitely not as dark as Black Sabbath.
Rat Salad (Van Halen)
Awesome Black Sabbath song, but it’s not the best band name. Plus, without the Van Halen band name, we wouldn’t have their classic band logo, which is easily one of the coolest logos to rock on a shirt ever.
The New Yardbirds (Led Zeppelin)
Fact: Nearly every “new” version of a previously well-respected brand is always crap. (Ex: “New” Coke.) Definitely thankful for this name change.
Screaming Abdabs (Pink Floyd)
“Screaming Abdabs” is apparently slang for “extreme anxiety or nervousness.” We’re sure many record companies would’ve been nervous as to how to market a band with that name.
Pud (Doobie Brothers)
Out of all slang terms for…*ahem*…male genitalia, this one is definitely the least sexy and whimsical.
Cans of Piss (R.E.M.)
For a moment, imagine “Shiny Happy People” by a band called CANS OF PISS!
Erica Banas is a rock/classic rock blogger that loves the smell of old vinyl in the morning.
