Music might truly be the gift that keeps on giving. Not only can it provide a sonically pleasing melody for the ears, our favorite songs could also spark the idea for your next big business venture.
The combined genius minds of Pusha T of hip-hop duo Clipse and rap mogul Pharrell Williams came up with quite a catchy business model recently with the launch of their joint coffee company, GRINDIN, a name lifted from the group’s Neptunes-produced 2002 hit single.
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Focusing on dark roast and medium roast blends, GRINDIN boasts a tagline of “innovation meets craftsmanship” and offers a range of flavors sourced from around the world. The dark roast combines cocoa, caramel, brown spices and lightwood found from Central and South America all the way to South East Asia. The medium roast comes exclusive from South America in its blend of bittersweet chocolate, caramel and roasted hazelnut. “Legend in two games like I’m Pee Wee Kirkland,” Pusha once rapped on the song that inspired the brand, and who knew his lyrics would be coming to fruition decades later.
Of course, they wouldn’t be the first to make a profit on such a creative play on words. Using a song-inspired business name can really establish a sense of familiarity with customers while also bringing in those familiar with the reference. Whether honoring the song’s cultural impact or just giving the business some cool points, it’s an easy choice for any entrepreneur with a good sense of music knowledge. When used thoughtfully (and legally!), inspiration from songs by Black musicians especially can create business names that are memorable, meaningful and connected to a rich musical tradition.
Keep scrolling as we take a look at clever brand names that were inspired by the music of Black musicians:
Kalefornia Love
The Whittier, California vegan pizzeria utilized a coy play on the hit 1995 single, “California Love,” by West Coast rap icons 2Pac and Dr. Dre.
Blueberry Hill
The vintage-inspired restaurant in St Louis, Missouri was directly influenced by the 1950s Fats Domino rendition of “Blueberry Hill” and overall era of its release.
Gin & Juice By Dre and Snoop
The canned cocktail company is a genius plan concocted by rappers Snoop Dogg and Dr. Dre as they capitalize on their hit 1994 collaboration, “Gin and Juice.”
Make Em’ Say Uhh! Energy Drink
Master P added to his multitude of businesses by introducing a line of drinks named after his 1997 anthem, “Make Em’ Say Uhh!”
Humble Mumble Sandwich Shop
Although recently closed, this Atlanta, Georgia eatery was a tasty tribute to the 2000 Outkast deep cut.
Epistrophy Jazz Cafe
Nestled in the Nolita neighborhood of New York City, this cozy cafe honors its namesake legacy to Thelonius Monk’s “Epistrophy” with live jazz every Sunday.
93′ Til
This restaurant-record bar In Houston, Texas borrows its name from the hip-hop classic “93 ‘Til Infinity” by Souls of Mischief.
Tipitina’s
The staple music venue In New Orleans, Louisiana is a tribute to the memory of Professor Longhair, particularly his defining song “Tipitina.”
Johnny Was
The bohemian chic clothing brand gets its name from the 1976 reggae classic “Johnny Was” by Bob Marley & The Wailers.
Rock The Bells Festival
LL Cool J went through a years-long battle to secure the rights to a phrase he popularized with his 1985 pioneering rap hit, “Rock The Bells.” Not only did he come out on top, he also turned it into a successful festival series that represents the genre of hip-hop as a whole.
Honorable Mention:
Juicy Pizza
Although now defunct, we give props to T’yanna Wallace for honoring her father’s legacy with a Los Angeles pizzeria named after Biggie’s debut single, “Juicy.”
