In the vast jungle of the Music industry, where artists constantly vie for attention, some bands have turned to the animal kingdom for inspiration. From the fierce roar of lions to the graceful flight of birds, animals have always captured human imagination.
It’s no surprise then, that numerous bands have adopted animal monikers, channeling the spirit, mystery, and allure of the wild into their music and identity.
In this Killer Rig article, we explore bands with animal names, those that have taken a walk on the wild side. They have chosen names that echo the rhythms of nature and the heartbeat of the animal world.
Arctic Monkeys
Arctic Monkeys is a British rock band born in 2002. They are known for their live performances that ooze energy and their raw sound. Their debut album, “Whatever People Say I Am, That’s What I’m Not“, kick-started their fame in 2006.
Their style is a blend of indie rock and post-punk revival, infectious and thought-provoking. What sets them apart? They evolve with each album while staying true to themselves.
From early garage Rock vibes to polished later albums, they keep pushing boundaries and experimenting with different genres.
If you’re an Arctic Monkeys fan, or just getting into them, here’s a suggestion: begin with their breakout hits like “I Bet You Look Good on the Dancefloor” and “Fluorescent Adolescent” – classic tracks!
Then branch out to albums like “AM” and “Tranquility Base Hotel & Casino” for a more mature sound.
Def Leppard
Def Leppard is a fam’d British rock band from 1977. They mixed hard rock and pop to become popular in the ’80s. Joe Elliott, Rick Allen, Rick Savage, Phil Collen, and Vivian Campbell make up the band.
They sold over 100 million records around the world. Catchy hooks, melodic vocals, and lively shows helped them succeed. Critics praised them, and they won many awards.
Rick Allen’s story is special. In 1984, he lost his left arm in a car accident. But, he kept playing drums with an electronic kit for his feet and right arm. This moved fans and other musicians.
Def Leppard faced triumphs and troubles. From poor beginnings to superstardom, they stayed true to their sound. Their tunes still move people everywhere.
The Monkees
In 1965, The Monkees were formed. The group was made up of Davy Jones, Micky Dolenz, Michael Nesmith, and Peter Tork. They blended together pop, rock, and folk sounds to create their unique style.
Their famous songs included “Last Train to Clarksville” and “I’m a Believer”. Although they were initially assembled as actors, they soon showed off their musical talent. With their catchy melodies and youthful energy, they became popular worldwide.
For those who want to hear more of The Monkees, here are some songs to check out:
- “Daydream Believer” – A feel-good track with memorable lyrics.
- “Pleasant Valley Sunday” – A song with a hidden message.
- “(I’m Not Your) Steppin’ Stone” – A song showcasing their rock side.
- “I’m a Believer” – Their biggest hit with their signature sound.
These songs offer different aspects of The Monkees’ musical style, so there’s something for everyone.
Eagles
The Eagles, a legendary rock group, formed in 1971 and had mammoth success with their one-of-a-kind sound and never-ending hits.
Besides their skyrocketing songs and mesmerizing performances, the Eagles have an interesting story behind their name. It was inspired by Native American symbolism, representing strength, freedom, and fearlessness.
This added more depth to their personality and connected to fans around the globe.
A cool fact is related to the recording of their renowned album, “Hotel California.” The band put in countless hours to perfect each part of the record, pushing themselves creatively and emotionally. In the end, they created a masterpiece which truly conveyed the Eagles’ artistry.
Hootie & The Blowfish
Hootie & The Blowfish, an iconic American rock band formed in 1986, became popular in the 1990s. They combined pop and rock music in a special way. Their name is very original, but it has great meaning for the members.
The lead vocalist, Darius Rucker, was nicknamed “Hootie.” He felt it captured his vocals and his love of music. “The Blowfish” symbolizes the strong connection between Rucker and the other members.
The Turtles
The Turtles emerged as a prominent force in the world of rock and pop. With a name inspired by the slow-moving, shell-clad reptile, The Turtles were anything but sluggish in their musical pursuits.
Formed in Los Angeles, California, in 1965, the band originally started as a surf-rock group named The Crossfires. However, as they transitioned to folk-rock, they rebranded themselves as The Turtles.
In 1967, The Turtles made waves with their standout song “Happy Together.” The captivating chorus and melodious tunes of this track propelled it to the pinnacle of the Billboard Hot 100, firmly establishing The Turtles’ legendary status in the annals of music.
Behind the scenes, the duo of Howard Kaylan and Mark Volman led the band with their distinctive vocals and songwriting prowess. Their chemistry was evident in the music they produced, blending harmonious vocals with memorable melodies.
Counting Crows
Counting Crows is an American rock band formed in 1991. Thy got their name from the tradition of counting crows during their migration. Their folk rock sound and poetic lyrics have made them a big hit, with several successful albums and a devoted fan base.
August and Everything After, their debut album, sold over 7 million copies worldwide. This blend of alternative and folk rock connected with listeners, launching them to fame.
Before becoming Counting Crows, they were called ‘Mod-L Society‘. But, another band already had that name, so they switched to Counting Crows, a move that shaped their identity and contributed to their success.
At one of their shows, a flock of crows flew near the stage. This incredible event captivated Adam Duritz, the lead vocalist, and inspired him to name the band “Counting Crows“. This connection between nature and music has been an integral part of Counting Crows ever since.
Cage The Elephant
Cage The Elephant is an American rock band from Kentucky. Their sound has gained them a prominent place in the music industry.
Brothers Matt and Brad Schultz, along with three other members, created the band in 2006. Known for their electrifying live performances, they have captivated audiences worldwide.
Their debut self-titled album, released in 2008, was critically acclaimed. Songs like “Ain’t No Rest for the Wicked” and “Back Against the Wall” became instant hits. They blend alternative rock with catchy melodies.
Cage The Elephant touches on social issues, personal struggles, and existential thoughts. They manage to strike a balance between introspection and relatability.
The Animals
Hailing from the vibrant streets of Newcastle, England, during the transformative 1960s, The Animals swiftly carved a niche for themselves in the music world.
With Eric Burdon’s powerful vocals at the helm, they delivered a sound that was both raw and steeped in blues, captivating the hearts of British Invasion enthusiasts.
Their rendition of “House of the Rising Sun” is nothing short of legendary. Taking a folk classic and giving it a twist that’s unmistakably The Animals, the song not only dominated global charts but also secured its spot as an evergreen favorite in rock circles.
Throughout their journey, The Animals seamlessly blended R&B and blues into their rock compositions, offering a refreshing yet familiar sound.
Tracks such as “Don’t Let Me Be Misunderstood” and “We Gotta Get Out of This Place” stand as proof of their musical range and innovation.
The Byrds
The Byrds were an iconic 1960s rock band from Los Angeles. They’re famous for pioneering folk rock and popularizing jangly guitar sounds. Their distinct sound combined harmonies and melodic tunes to capture the hearts of many.
They had five members: Roger McGuinn, Gene Clark, David Crosby, Chris Hillman, and Michael Clarke. They composed many hits, including “Mr. Tambourine Man,” “Turn! Turn! Turn!,” and “Eight Miles High”. Their blend of folk, rock, country, and psychedelic genres gives them a personal sound.
Their albums include:
- Mr. Tambourine Man (1965)
- Turn! Turn! Turn! (1965)
- Fifth Dimension (1966)
- Younger Than Yesterday (1967)
- The Notorious Byrd Brothers (1968)
- Sweetheart of the Rodeo (1968)
The Byrds were known for their complex vocal harmonies and the use of multiple guitars to create a unique sound. They pushed boundaries by incorporating different instruments and genres into their music.
Steppenwolf
Steppenwolf, a band with an animal-inspired name, burst onto the rock scene in 1967. They gained instant popularity with their iconic hit “Born to Be Wild”, becoming an anthem for the counterculture movement.
In 1968, Steppenwolf released their debut album, which featured not only “Born to Be Wild” but also other famous tracks such as “Magic Carpet Ride”. Their blend of hard rock and blues elements made them stand out from other groups.
The rebellious lyrics and sound of Steppenwolf have left a lasting mark on rock music.
Black Crowes
Black Crowes, that’s the name of the band with the unique animal moniker. Boasting a distinct sound and mesmerizing performances, the group has left a remarkable mark on the industry.
Let’s look at some interesting facts about them:
- Band Name: Black Crowes
- Year Formed: 1989
- Origin: Marietta, Georgia, USA
- Genre: Rock
- Members: Chris Robinson (vocals), Rich Robinson (guitar), Steve Gorman (drums), Sven Pipien (bass), and Adam MacDougall (keyboards)
The band is known for their bluesy rock sound, coupled with soulful tunes and meaningful lyrics. This style earned them heaps of praise, plus a loyal following.
Their debut album “Shake Your Money Maker” was a huge success when it came out in 1990. It featured hits like “Hard to Handle” and “She Talks to Angels,” launching Black Crowes into the rock music world.
The band released several successful albums, toured extensively, and received multiple awards. However, they experienced turmoil within the group, resulting in lineup changes and hiatuses.
But, they still managed to keep fans enthralled with their live shows and continue making rock music that resonates with people around the globe. That’s why Black Crowes will always have a place in music history.
Beastie Boys
The Beastie Boys are a well known American hip hop group that left an unforgettable reputation. Founded in 1981, Mike D, MCA and Ad-Rock began as a punk rock band.
But they eventually shifted to hip hop. Their debut album, “Licensed to Ill,” released in 1986, topped the Billboard 200 chart, which was a first for a rap album.
Their energetic shows and eclectic musical style mixed punk, rap, funk and rock, creating their own sound. Plus, their rebellious and funny lyrics made them famous.
Songs like “Fight for Your Right” and “Sabotage” became anthems for young people. They blended genres and pushed boundaries, becoming pioneers in the music industry.
The Beastie Boys were also socially active. They advocated for Tibetan independence and the Dalai Lama. They organized benefit concerts and supported social change.
At a 1998 concert at Madison Square Garden, MCA spoke about his cancer. His honesty touched fans, further confirming their admiration for the band.
MCA’s death in 2012 didn’t end the Beastie Boys’ legacy. Many artists take inspiration from their work. They remain an iconic symbol of innovation, creativity and fearlessness in music history.
Seal
Seal has roared to fame with their soulful pop music. The lead singer is renowned for his smooth vocals and emotional lyrics. He has released many chart-topping hits over the years. His original voice and charismatic stage presence draw a diverse fan base.
Seal stands out from other bands. His ability to blend soulful melodies with pop beats has won him acclaim. His discography, spanning decades, still captivates audiences worldwide.
If you want to explore Seal’s music more, here are some recommendations:
- “Kiss from a Rose“: A powerful ballad with heartfelt lyrics.
- “Crazy“: A catchy track to show Seal’s versatility.
- “Love’s Divine“: An uplifting song embodying love and Seal’s musicality.
These suggestions show different aspects of Seal’s artistry. Whether you like soulful ballads or pop tunes, these songs will give you an understanding of why Seal is so loved. Lions may be the kings of the jungle, but Seal is king of rock ‘n’ roll!
Temple of the Dog
Formed in Seattle during the 1990s, Temple of the Dog included members from Soundgarden and Pearl Jam: Chris Cornell, Eddie Vedder, Stone Gossard, Jeff Ament, Mike McCready, and Matt Cameron.
The band’s sound combined elements of rock and alternative music. But, its origin story is what really makes them special.
Temple of the Dog was formed in tribute to Andrew Wood, lead singer of Seattle-based Mother Love Bone. Wood passed away in 1990 due to a heroin overdose. So, Chris Cornell and members of Soundgarden joined forces with Stone Gossard and Jeff Ament from Mother Love Bone.
The result was a self-titled album that featured heartfelt lyrics and powerful melodies as a tribute to Andrew Wood’s legacy. Though Temple of the Dog had a low profile, their music continues to impress fans around the world. Its raw emotion and musical talent make it timeless.
Space Hog
Space Hog, a British rock band from 1994, became famous in the late 90s with their album “Resident Alien”. It had the hit singles “In the Meantime” and “Space Hog”.
Here are details about Space Hog:
| Album | Year | Hit Singles |
|---|---|---|
| Resident Alien | 1995 | In the Meantime, Space Hog |
| The Chinese Album | 1998 | Mungo City, Lucy’s Shoe |
| The Hogyssey | 2001 | At Least I Got Laid, Goodbye Violet Race |
The band’s name, Spacehog, perfectly encapsulates their style: a blend of expansive, otherworldly soundscapes with a raw, gritty edge.
Just as animals have their habitats and behaviors, Spacehog carved out a niche for themselves, standing out in a time when grunge and pop dominated the airwaves.
RATT
In the vibrant era of the 1980s, when hair was big and rock was even bigger, RATT slithered its way to the forefront of the glam metal scene. With a name that evokes images of a gritty, relentless creature, RATT perfectly embodied the raw energy and tenacity of their music.
Their debut album, “Out of the Cellar,” struck a chord with fans, propelling them to stardom with tracks like “Round and Round” that showcased their signature blend of powerful riffs and melodic hooks.
The choice of the name RATT wasn’t just a nod to the animal kingdom but also a reflection of their edgy, persistent style.
In a music landscape teeming with bands vying for attention, RATT distinguished themselves with a combination of musical prowess and a name that was both memorable and emblematic of their sound.
Their legacy, much like the persistence of the creature they’re named after, endures as they continue to influence new generations of rock enthusiasts.
Toad the Wet Sprocket
Originating from the sunny landscapes of Santa Barbara, California, in the late 1980s, Toad the Wet Sprocket brought a refreshing blend of alternative rock and folk to the music scene.
With a name inspired by a Monty Python comedy sketch, the band’s approach to music was both earnest and introspective, yet never devoid of a playful edge.
Their albums, including “Fear” and “Dulcinea,” demonstrated their talent for writing catchy compositions with meaningful lyrics. Fans connected with songs like “All I Want” and “Walk on the Ocean” because they combined appealing hooks with powerful emotional overtones.
Throughout their tenure, Toad the Wet Sprocket was celebrated for their ability to strike a balance between commercial success and artistic integrity. Their sound, while rooted in the alternative rock of their time, carried a timeless quality that appealed to a broad audience.
Related Band Name Concepts
- Band names with numbers in them.
- Bands with food names.
- Bands with female lead singers.
- List of bands with blue in the name.
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