It was a marketing stunt, but James Blunt was serious. If his album went to number one in the charts, the Brit wanted to change his name. That just went well.
James Blunt can continue to be called James Blunt and doesn’t have to change his name to Blunty McBluntface. The new edition of his hit album “Back to Bedlam” entered the British charts at number seven – and not at number one, which would have had consequences.
In this case, the musician had promised to officially change his name to the suggestion that gets the most likes on social media. “Blunty McBluntface” won. The 50-year-old then assured that he would pull off the marketing stunt in an emergency.
Blunt reacted to the chart decision with an ironic video: In it, he is filmed as his manager, harassed, tells him the “bad” news on the phone that he has missed the top of the charts. While the interviewer comforts him, Blunt cheers: “I don’t have to change my name” and jumps around on the sofa for joy.
Name changes in the UK are relatively easy
In Great Britain, name changes can be made via a so-called “deed poll” by declaration. Cost: 49.32 pounds (59.20 euros). There are only restrictions if copyright is violated or the name could be offensive, for example if it is offensive or sexual in nature. The step can also be reversed very easily.
The last word may not yet have been spoken for Blunt, who is known for his self-irony – if the joke video is to be believed. “I’ve spoken to the record label and we think it might be time to rebrand. We’re all a bit tired of James Blunt.” Plus, the kids would love Blunty McBluntface. “It has a really nice ring to it.” Blunt then collapses in shock. The manager speaks to him: “Bluntace…?!”
Blunt stormed the charts in 2005 with “Back to Bedlam” and the single “You’re Beautiful”. The record stayed at the top of the British charts for ten weeks.
Source: Stern
I am an author and journalist who has worked in the entertainment industry for over a decade. I currently work as a news editor at a major news website, and my focus is on covering the latest trends in entertainment. I also write occasional pieces for other outlets, and have authored two books about the entertainment industry.
