With concert season back in full swing and many of us heading to a venue for the first time in years, we are feeling especially inspired by the music. Music has the power to bring people together, bring us to tears, or motivate us to get things done. When we have a bad day, putting on our favorite song can quickly turn things around. Not to mention, there’s truly a song (or tons) for every human emotion. I think the best part is that when a song really speaks to us, it makes us feel like we’re not alone.
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Music is also where you can find creative baby name inspiration. Music-inspired baby names are fun, unique, and can hold special meaning. Some of us are heading out to the Taylor Swift Eras Tour, some of us have been hooked on Daisy Jones & the Six, and plenty of us gained an appreciation for music from hearing our moms belt Reba McEntire songs in the kitchen when we were little. No matter your music preference, all the way from the classics, to the ones we currently have on repeat, there’s music-inspired baby name potential everywhere.
Read on for our favorite girl, boy, and gender-neutral baby names inspired by all the best songs and artists from every genre and generation.
Music-Inspired Baby Names for Girls
Aretha
Ensure your little one grows up to be “A Natural Woman” by naming her after the Queen of Soul herself, Aretha Franklin. A music-inspired baby name list would be incomplete without recognizing the queen.
Betty
Swifties will instantly associate this name with the song off of Taylor’s eighth studio album, Folklore. The beautiful ballad is a fan favorite and a great option for naming a little girl.
Cecilia
Oh, Cecilia, you’re breaking my heart. This song by Simon & Garfunkel is not only instantly recognizable, it’s also a name that truly will never go out of style.
Carolina/Caroline
Although very different songs, two of our favorite artists, Taylor Swift and Harry Styles, have songs titled “Carolina.” Not to mention Neil Diamond’s perennial karaoke hit, “Sweet Caroline”. No matter which song is your favorite, the name would be such a good one for a little girl.
Daisy
We don’t know about you, but we certainly think ten episodes of the Prime Video hit Daisy Jones & the Six is not nearly enough of the “will they, won’t they” rockstar trope. For those of us who can’t get enough of the ’70s nostalgia, Daisy is a great baby name to consider that is both music and spring-inspired.
Delilah
What’s it like in New York City? I’m a thousand miles away but, girl, tonight you look so pretty. It’s next to impossible to not sing this tune by Plain White T’s when hearing this lyrical name, but if you ask us, we have no complaints about that.
Emmylou
Classic country music fans will know this name is inspired by one of the most influential singer/songwriters in American country music history, Emmylou Harris. Avid listeners may also recognize the name from George Strait’s song “Check Yes or No.”
Etta
A wildly popular name until the 1960’s, this vintage baby name is making its way back up the charts, and we can see why. Typically seen as the shortened version of Henrietta, we were inspired to include this name on our music-inspired baby names list because of the acclaimed Jamesetta Hawkins, AKA, the one and only, Etta James.
Iris
When everything’s made to be broken, I just want you to know who I am. While, for us, this name stirs up memories of the 1998 song by the Goo Goo Dolls, Iris is also of Greek origin meaning ‘rainbow.’
Marjorie
We’ve learned plenty of life lessons from Taylor Swift over the years, but one of our favorites comes from “Marjorie” on her Evermore album. Little ones named after this song are sure to learn how important it is to, Never be so kind, you forget to be clever. Never be so clever, you forget to be kind.
Matilda
While for some of us this name will be very nostalgic and bring back memories of our favorite childhood movie, fellow Harry Styles lovers will know this is also the name of a song on his latest album. Inspire little ones to know, You can see the world, following the seasons. Anywhere you go, you don’t need a reason.
Layla
Darling, won’t you ease my worried mind? Since the 1970s, after Eric Clapton and his band Derek and the Dominos released a song entitled “Layla,” the name has grown in popularity in the U.S.
Loretta
You don’t have to be a “Louisiana Woman” to appreciate the name of one of the greatest female country music artists in history, Loretta Lynn. The Italian name was popularized in the U.S. in the 1930s, and if you ask us, it hasn’t made the comeback it deserves quite yet.
Lyric
This musical name has Greek and French origins and means ‘songlike.’ It’s no surprise former Backstreet Boys star AJ Mclean and his wife Rochelle reached for this moniker for their daughter in 2017. After all, where would music-inspired baby names come from without lyrics?
Valerie
Why don’t you come on over, Valerie? Each and every time I see this name I can hear Amy Winehouse’s powerful voice sing this beautiful song.
Source: Alyssa Buth
More Music-Inspired Baby Names for Girls
Those are some of our favorites, but the music-inspired baby girl names don’t stop there.
Adele
Hello, it’s me—your new baby girl.
Alanis
Inspired by the Grammy Award winner Alanis Morissette.
Angie
Angie, ain’t it good to be alive? A 1973 classic by The Rolling Stones.
Ariana
Just like pop superstar Ariana Grande.
Beth
Oh, Beth, what can I do? Besides name you after this harmonious Kiss song.
Brandy
You’re a fine girl, what a good name this would be.
Cher
Whether your mind goes to Clueless, or Do you believe in life after love? this is a fierce name for a baby girl.
Ciara
Level up a baby girl by giving her this name she would share with the American singer.
Dolly
This country music queen and philanthropist needs no introduction.
Eileen
Come on Eileen, to loo rye ay. Inspired by the original 1982 song by Dexys Midnight Runners, later covered by Save Ferris in the ’90s.
Eleanor
Look at all the lonely people, Eleanor Rigby. Inspired by the 1966 song by The Beatles.
Faith
Coming from the vocal powerhouse and knock-out actress Faith Hill.
Gwen
’90s kids will remember Gwen Stefani as “Just a Girl” before she broke out on her own (in an even bigger way!)
Joan
This name doesn’t have a “Bad Reputation,” because it’s inspired by Joan Jett & the Blackhearts.
Joni
Popularized by the 1960s folk Canadian-American singer/songwriter Joni Mitchell.
Lana
For all Lana Del Ray lovers.
Lucy
Think “Lucy in the Sky With Diamonds” by The Beatles.
Maggie May
Rod Stewart said it best when he sang, You stole my heart, but I love you anyway.
Miley
Make sure your little one knows she can always buy herself flowers by naming her after Miley Cyrus.
Olivia
The most popular baby girl name in 2022, Olivia Rodrigo will surely keep the name near the top of the list this year, too.
Rhiannon
And wouldn’t you love to love her? Inspired by the 1975 hit by Fleetwood Mac.
Rosanna
This lovely name is inspired by the 1982 classic rock song by Toto.
Selena
Gone-too-soon star Selena and singer/actress Selena Gomez give this name—also meaning “moon”—some extra shine.
Shania
Man, I feel like this would be a great name for baby girl.
Music-Inspired Baby Names for Boys
Andre
Pay homage to the hip hop artist who paved the way for some of greatest in the industry like the Eazy E’s, Ice Cube’s, and the Snoop D-O-Double G’s, and Eminem. Of course, we’re talking about Dr. Dre, whose birth name is Andre Romelle Young.
Austin
Not only is Austin the Texas state capital, it also happens to be the live music capital of the world. Country music artist Blake Shelton made his music debut with the song “Austin” in 2001 that references the Lone Star State city.
Barker
For those of us who grew up listening to 1990s and early 2000s rock music, we were already familiar with Travis Barker, who’s name came back into the spotlight in recent years. If you automatically say the words ‘I know’ after hearing anyone say ‘works sucks,’ consider this baby name that is totally rock n’ roll and highly unique.
Ezra
No artist has a voice quite like that of George Ezra. The surname of the “Budapest” and “Shotgun” singer is a great first name option for a little one. This name has also gained popularity after being used for a character in the TV series Pretty Little Liars, and by Ezra Miller, the American actor.
Harrison
While inspiration from The Beatles is all over this list, Harrison might be one of our favorites. As the surname of the lead guitarist, George Harrison, this name is clever, bold, and sure to elicit a few, “where did that name come from?” questions.
Hendrix
Of course we’re drawing inspiration from the 1960s rocker, Jimi Hendrix, with this one. Typically seen as a surname, Hendrix is as unique as it is strong, and has slowly grown in popularity as a first name in recent years.
Jack/Jackson
There are many songs that reference the name Jack/Jackson, such as “Jack and Diane” by John Mellencamp and “Captain Jack” by Billy Joel. It’s also the surname of country artist Alan Jackson, making this strong name a great option for a little boy.
Jagger
Little ones named after the lead vocalist of The Rolling Stones, Mick Jagger, are sure to have ‘the moves.’ For any classic rock fans, or music lovers in general, this is a unique name to consider when naming a newborn.
Jessie
You know, I wish that I had Jessie’s girl. Make Rick Springfield proud by using the name in his most recognizable song as baby name inspiration. This nostalgic name will always deserve a space on a music-inspired baby names list.
Legend
We can’t think of very many R&B artists of today that are quite as talented as the singer, songwriter, pianist, and producer we know as John Legend. This mystical name can be a great option for a boy who’s destined for greatness.
Marvin
Early Drake fans circa 2011 who still know all of the words to “Marvin’s Room,” and those of us who appreciate the classics like Marvin Gaye alike can consider using this vintage name.
Rhett
What first comes to mind for me when hearing this name is the surname of the country singer Thomas Rhett. But this name was also seen in the movie Gone With the Wind as the name given to Clark Gable’s character.
Smith
For fans of the moody rock band The Smiths, consider drawing inspiration from the band name. Seen almost exclusively as a surname, using Smith as a first name is sure to make any little one stand out in the best way.
Tucker
Inspired by the surname of the “Delta Dawn” singer, Tanya Tucker, is a name that dates back to the 1800s. While fluctuating in popularity over the last century, it has regained steady popularity since the mid-1990s.
Turner
We have to thank Schitt’s Creek for revitalizing our love for Tina Turner’s hit song “The Best” in recent years. Because your little one is sure to be simply the best, consider drawing inspiration from this surname.
Source: @strollergang
More Music-Inspired Baby Names for Boys
We couldn’t stop there with so many more music-inspired baby names to chose from:
Alejandro
Lady Gaga’s 2009 hit also featured boy names Fernando and Roberto.
Bennie
Think “Bennie and the Jets” by Elton John.
Bobby
Shoutout to Janis Joplin for her words, That feelin’ good was good enough for me, good enough for me and my Bobby McGee.
Cash
A strong name inspired by the one and only Johnny Cash.
Daniel
Another Elton John classic, Daniel you’re a star in the face of the sky.
Drake
Inspired by one of the most successful rappers of this generation.
Eddie
Choose your rock guitarist inspiration; Eddie Van Halen or Eddie Vedder.
Franklin
The surname of the wildly talented Aretha Franklin.
Hank
A classic name that’s made this list thanks to Hank Williams and Hank Williams Jr.
Harry
For a little one that has as much style as Harry, consider this timeless name.
Jonas
Having brothers is not a prerequisite for this charming name.
Kendrick
Drawn from one of the most influential hip hop artists today, Kendrick Lamar.
Louis
What a wonderful name to consider, inspired by American jazz musician and singer Louis Armstrong.
Marshall
The given name of talented rapper Eminem.
Simon
As seen in the duo Simon & Garfunkel and in pop culture in the Netflix series Bridgerton.
Tommy
After founding member of Mötley Crüe, Tommy Lee, and as heard in Trisha Yearwood’s song “She’s in Love With the Boy.”
Waylon
From the pioneer of the Outlaw Movement of country music, Waylon Jennings.
Willie
Raise a little outlaw by naming him after the influential country music artist Willie Nelson.
Zeppelin
A highly unique name inspired by the 1970s rock band Led Zeppelin.
Music-Inspired Gender Neutral Names
Billie/Billy
The music world has given us far too many Billie’s to not include this name on our list. The first to come to mind are Billie Eilish, Billy Joel, Billy Ray Cyrus, Billy Idol, and Billie Holiday. And let’s not forget “Billie Jean.”
Bret/Brett
Just like every cowboy sings his sad, sad song, every rose has its thorn. This name is included on our list thanks to the lead singer of the classic rock band Poison, Bret Michaels.
Brooks
Brooks has significantly gained in popularity over the recent years for both boys and girls. It reminds us of the country group Brooks & Dunn and seasoned country singer Garth Brooks.
Cyrus
Every music fan can appreciate the name Cyrus. Country fans love Billy Ray’s “Achy Breaky Heart,” rock fans can “Shake It” with Trace, hip hop fans love Billy Ray’s collab with Lil Nas X, and almost everyone, but especially pop fans, have come to love Miley.
Denver
Even if you’re not from the Centennial State, you can appreciate this name that we drew from acclaimed folk artist John Denver.
Lennon
This name, of course, is inspired by John Lennon of The Beatles. We love this name not only because it reminds us of the musician and peace activist, but also because of it’s Irish origin meaning ‘lover.’
Marley
Don’t worry about a thing. Because every little thing is gonna be all right—especially for little ones named after iconic Jamaican reggae singer Bob Marley.
Montana
This geographical name packs quite the punch as it can have many different meanings behind it. Whether you’re from Big Sky Country, a fan of Yellowstone, or grew up loving Miley Cyrus’ fictional pop star persona, Hannah Montana, this is a fun name to consider for a little one.
Morrison
For little ones born as brown eyed girls (or boys), maybe naming them after singer Van Morrison is the perfect choice. The name can be tied back to lead vocalist for The Doors, Jim Morrison, as well.
Presley
This list wouldn’t be complete without referencing the King of Rock & Roll. We can inspire little ones to be as influential in everything they do by naming them after the incomparable Elvis Presley.
Stevie
Just like Billie’s, there are a lot of great Stevie’s out there. There’s, of course, the 1970s and 1980s icon, Stevie Nicks. We also have the talented Stevie Wonder and Stevie Ray Vaughn.
More Music-Inspired Gender Neutral Names
Beck
Known as the artist behind the songs “Loser” and “Where It’s At.”
Chesney
Inspired by the beloved country singer, Kenny Chesney.
Cobain
All music fans are familiar with the lead singer of Nirvana, Kurt Cobain.
Collins
I can feel it coming in the air tonight—all the baby name inspiration you could want.
Dylan
Name a little one after one of the greatest songwriters of all time, Bob Dylan.
Everly
This lovely and unique name can be attributed to the 1950s rock duo, The Everly Brothers.
Jameson
While often known as the Irish whiskey brand, it’s also the name of up and coming country artist, Jameson Rodgers.
Jude
Because you can never go wrong drawing inspiration from The Beatles.
Lauryn/Lauren
Pay homage to the talented Ms. Lauryn Hill, with this name.
Nelly/Nellie
A great gender-neutral option inspired by hip hop artist Nelly and singer/song writer Nelly Furtado.
Noah
After another talented member of the Cyrus family, the youngest sister, Noah.
Osbourne
This unique and edgy name choice is, of course, inspired by the wild one himself, Ozzy Osbourne.
Parker
We expect to see this name rise and rise on the charts, especially with the increasing popularity of new country artist Parker McCollum.
Santana
Just like the band, this name transcends generations.
Whitley
This unique name is inspired by country music artist Keith Whitley.
