Re: Stage Names

[jwbaz]

I don't like them. And yet, I have one, kinda.

Baz, as most of you know, is the shortened version of my last name, Basilo. It's a nickname I adopted and slapped on to replace both the mouthful and surname no can ever seem to pronounce correctly*. It's just easier to say.

However, I'm thinking of dropping it from all published work and stage

Comments

[sirenoftitan1]

Krystal and I were just discussing this yesterday. I think stage names that are a real nickname or derivation of one's name are fine, especially if they develop organically. I also think it is fine to give yourself a realistic pseudonym. I am thinking about doing this myself for published work that I may not want showing up if I am googled by someone in my professional life. In fact, I wish I already had, when I consider some of the videos that come up if you type my real name into youtube.

In an entirely different class, are terrible stage names, wherein you label yourself something wonderful, or punny, or otherwise stupid, e.g. anything with the word "poet" in the name.

When I say I hate stage names, I mean type 2, not type 1. And yes, I will always call you Baz.

[jwbaz]

Yeah, this is my general feeling too, on both the etymology and pseudonyms in general.

As an aside, can you imagine how badly Marc will fuck this name up? He can't even pronounce "Baz" correctly.

[nerak_g]

Do whatever you want, you'll still be called Baz.

Karen G. started out as a nickname (to distinguish me from another Karen at work), too.It stuck as a "stage" name because it's useful and easier on everyone than my whole name.It's mostly a term of endearment at this point.

Generally, abbreviated nicknames & stage names don't bother me as much as made-up ones.
For publishing stuff, I use all of my name.
BAZ itself could be a show title.For your great American novel, though, it should be Basilo.

[jwbaz]

and publishing is kinda what started the whole thought process. I figure I might be taken a little more seriously, if only by taking myself more seriously. I'll keep chewing on it.

i was thinking

[cynthia_french]

about using Cynthia F Off for my new stage name.

[poetic_wanker]

I have to agree with Amy on the Organic-ness of the argument. Down is not my real last name but everyone for the last 7 years of my life has referred to me as such. 90% of the people in my life don't even know its not my real last name. It came from working in the music industry.

Also, would changing it this far into your career be detrimental? You've got two cd's, crazy amounts of touring and a one man show under your current name.

Also would you be changing the J.W?

It's funny that the conversation comes up when the person who is widely regarded as having had the worst stage name ever (which she has dropped and openly acknowledges the name as a joke) is moving in with me tomorrow. (i see it as funny b/c ive been having this conversation with a lot of people lately)

[jwbaz]

Chocolate Spear of Destiny is your new roommate?

and no, I would keep J.W.

[poetic_wanker]

yeah, and my new significant other (well, tentatively)

[jwbaz]

NO FUCKING WAY!

what's her real name, anyway?

[charmedscorpion]

I vote for Basilo. But you knew this already.

[nelsonbob]

Melvin. I think that should be your new name...

Did I mention there is now a cigar warehouse withing walking distance of the Mesa Slam? huh, must have slipped my mind...

Seriously, Basilo professionally, Baz for those that earn that level of comfort.

[jwbaz]

Point taken. on all accounts.