"Before you settle in on a band name check to see if someone else has taken it by doing a quick check on google, my space, and USPTO website. All are free searches. "

"Getting an official registered service mark for a band name or logo is the best way to protect your rights to use them but costs can run about $1500 for filing with the government and $1500 in lawyer fees. You can register in your state for a much lower fee. Some states are under $100 but just protects you in that state. "

"If you are a musician or songwriter, the copyright law affects your craft, so it is important to have a basic understanding of it. The term "copyright" really means that the creator has the right to copy. If an artist writes an original song, that artist is the owner of the copyright. As it pertains to artists in general, the copyright law basically grants the creator the right to (1) reproduce (e.g., make copies), (2) distribute (e.g., sell copies) and (3) perform (e.g., play the song live). www.benmclane.com"

"A band contemplating a serious career in the business would be well advised to take the necessary steps to protect its name by obtaining trademark protection. That way, the act will not only be secure in knowing that it has acquired the right to the name, but also the artist will not be sued for infringing someone else's name. www.benmclane.com"