Top 10 Musical Groups Named After Locations

Starting a band is challenging enough without the added stress of choosing a name. These 10 bands opted for simplicity by naming themselves after geographical locations.

1: Alabama

As one of the top-selling country bands of the 1980s, this group remains a powerhouse in music history. Named after their home state, they gained widespread recognition, even among non-country fans, with their iconic track, "If You're Gonna Play in Texas (You Gotta Have a Fiddle in the Band)."

2: Boston

In 1976, the rock band Boston released their self-titled debut album, unaware of the massive success their innovative sound would achieve. The album went on to become one of the highest-selling debut records in U.S. history, with over 17 million copies sold. Tracks like "More Than a Feelin'" and "Don't Look Back" showcase their unique musical style.

3: Chicago

Formed in 1967, Chicago initially adopted the name "Chicago Transit Authority." However, this caused confusion with the actual public transportation system of the same name. To avoid mix-ups, the band shortened their name to Chicago. With hits like "25 or 6 to 4" and "Hard to Say I'm Sorry," they became a legendary name in music.

4: E Street Band

The E Street Band, named after a New Jersey street, rose to fame in the 1980s as Bruce Springsteen's backing band. They gained widespread recognition through the Boss's iconic album Born in the U.S.A., which sold 15 million copies. Since their formation in 1972, they have collaborated with legendary artists like Bob Dylan, David Bowie, and Aretha Franklin.

5: Europe

Europe, the Swedish rock band, played a pivotal role in shaping the heavy metal and hair-band scene of the 1970s and 1980s. Known for hits like "Carrie" and "The Final Countdown," they have sold over ten million albums globally. In 2006, they released their album Secret Society, continuing their musical legacy.

6: Kansas

Kansas, known for their guitar-heavy boogie-rock style, dominated arenas and stadiums during their peak. With iconic tracks like "Dust in the Wind" and "Carry on Wayward Son," this Topeka-originated band rose to fame in the late 1970s and early 1980s.

7: Sugarhill Gang

Taking their name from Harlem's Sugar Hill neighborhood, the Sugarhill Gang broke barriers by becoming the first hip-hop act to reach Billboard's Top 40 with their hit "Rapper's Delight." The song sold over eight million copies, forever altering the music landscape.

8: Asia

The supergroup Asia, named after the expansive continent, was formed in 1981 and included members from Yes, Emerson, Lake & Palmer, King Crimson, and The Buggles. Renowned for their striking album artwork, Asia achieved chart-topping success in the early 1980s with hits like "Heat of the Moment" and "Don't Cry."

9: Backstreet Boys

Inspired by the Back Street Market, a popular shopping spot in their hometown of Orlando, Florida, the Backstreet Boys became a global sensation in the late 1990s. With unforgettable tracks like "Quit Playin' Games (With My Heart)" and "I Want It That Way," they have sold over 90 million albums worldwide.

10: Bay City Rollers

In 1967, two brothers from Edinburgh, Scotland, started a band named The Saxons. Seeking a more American vibe, they reportedly threw a dart at a U.S. map, and when it landed on Bay City, Michigan, the Bay City Rollers came to life.

Famous for their upbeat, roller-rink-ready tunes, the Bay City Rollers soared to the top of the U.S. charts in 1976 with their iconic track "Saturday Night."

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS:

Helen Davies, Marjorie Dorfman, Mary Fons, Deborah Hawkins, Martin Hintz, Linnea Lundgren, David Priess, Julia Clark Robinson, Paul Seaburn, Heidi Stevens, and Steve Theunissen