Band names are hard to come up with-- especially creative band names. Through much prayer and thought, eventually a name is born. Sometimes it's inspired by a street, sometimes a Bible verse, sometimes a slogan, but whatever it is, it serves the purpose of giving fans the first glimpse of what the band is all about.
In honor of Tenth Avenue North's latest release Followers, we're taking a look at some bands whose name choice includes a number. An odd thing to think about? Maybe, but it did spawn a pretty awesome list. Check it out below to see our favorite bands with a number in their name, the story behind their name and why we love them.
1. Tenth Avenue North Behind The Name: The band was formed during their college days at Palm Beach Atlantic University in West Palm Beach, Florida. Tenth Avenue North was a street near their campus and became the obvious choice for the band name after the founding members spent so much time there. Why We Love Them: No matter what your genre preferences, it's hard not to love Tenth Ave. Their catchy pop melodies carry Scripture-based lyrics drenched in profound truth and create an emotional punch with each line, making their songs a place many have found comfort and encouragement in. Their newest project Followers gives fans more of their signature style: lyrically powerful tracks paired with an ever-growing sonic maturity. The compelling songwriting we've come to expect from TAN is absolutely evident from the album's start to finish, shining in both upbeat gems as well as slower worship moments. Song You Should Hear: "I Have This Hope"
2. 1GN Behind The Name: 1 Girl Nation was originally a symbol of unity within the group, 5 girls from all different places coming together under the same cause. Now the new name 1GN stands for the same, just in a more mature way to fit their widening audience. Why We Love Them: Pop vocal group 1 Girl Nation bounced onto the CCM scene a few years ago with their upbeat hit "While We're Young." Immediately a favorite for teens/tweens and a source of inspiration for young girls, fans flocked to this new group and were drawn to the way they blended their positive message with catchy melodies. After a season of refinement that included many challenges and the loss of two members, 1 Girl Nation changed their name to 1GN and reemerged more focused than ever. Their first album after the big change, Unite, showcases their energetic vibes and powerful voices in a brand new way. Song You Should Hear: "Guard Your Heart"
3. 7eventh Time Down Behind The Name: The band's name came straight from Scripture--2 Kings 5:14 to be exact. The story follows King Naman, who had leprosy. God told him that if he would dip in the Jordan River seven times, he would be healed. At first the king refused, but eventually he humbled himself and did as the Lord instructed, and on his "seventh time down" he came up clean. Why We Love Them: Probably the first things that come to mind when thinking of 7eventh Time Down are these: Christ-centered lyrics, radio accessible music, catchy hooks and popular melodies. Hits like "Just Say Jesus," "The One I'm Running To" and "God Is On The Move" have been burning up radio waves for a while now, giving fans an always-encouraging lyrical well to drink from. Their slightly edgy rock style constantly produces quality tracks that point people to God and makes them a sure favorite for fans who enjoy rock qualities without the full edge of the genre. Song You Should Hear: "The One I'm Running To"
4. Third Day Behind The Name: As most would guess, the name comes from the third day when Christ rose from the dead. "It's the most incredible day in all of history. Not a bad occasion to reference," the group says. They say they came up with the name rather quickly and originally intended to change it after they thought of something better, but it stuck. Why We Love Them:Third Day is a band that truly needs no introduction. One of the most beloved mainstays in Christian music, Mac Powell and co. have been leading crowds in southern-styled moments of praise for 20 years. Their energetic live show is a fan favorite in the industry, largely because of the way they flawlessly transition from worship to rock and pop and handle each genre with grace and extreme talent. The group thrives on the interaction with their fans and the immense power of music to change lives. Song You Should Hear: "Your Words"
5. Group 1 Crew Behind The Name: Another band whose name signifies unity, Group 1 Crew wanted their name to convey a singular message of the band's desire to shine the light of Christ through song. Why We Love Them: For a group that started in 2007, Group 1 Crew has done a lot of changing over the years. It began as Manwell, Blanca and Pablo bringing an urban feel to the genre, but as they started to gain traction in the industry, the band dropped to Manwell and Blanca and the style turned a bit more pop. Fast forward through a few major tour spots and successful albums and Blanca decided to go solo, leaving Group 1 Crew in the capable hands of Manwell. As the sole member now, Manwell set out to create the first full-length album since 2012. Power shows the pop/rock direction the band is now headed, with radio gems in the mix and fans still loving what G1C is doing. Song You Should Hear: "Wake Me Up (Amnesia)"
6. Family Force 5 Behind The Name: When asked where their name comes from, the answer Family Force 5 gives is hilariously simple: "It sounded like a big, giant robot." They actually started as The Phamily, but had to change because of a produce company in Texas who had already claimed the name. They finally decided on Family Force 5 because they were a family, a force to be reckoned with, there were 5 of them... and oh yeah, that whole robot thing. Why We Love Them: Fun pop melodies, funky dance moves, colorful fashion, cool nicknames and a high-energy live show--what's not to love about Family Force 5? The band crosses genres incredibly well, touring on both Warped Tour and WinterJam with the same music. Though they have their serious moments and even worshipful tunes ("Let It Be Love," "Walk On Water"), the group is best known for their crazy stage antics, creative music videos ("Chainsaw," "Cray Button," "BZRK") and borderline-EDM songs. A favorite of fans for sure, Family Force 5 is anything but normal--but in the best way possible. Song You Should Hear: "BZRK"
7. Thousand Foot Krutch Behind The Name:Thousand Foot Krutch's name is based off the belief that God is a crutch you can always lean on, even when your problems pile up a thousand feet high. Why We Love Them: Hard rockers Thousand Foot Krutch are giants in their genre, and for good reason. Their hard work and creativity have made them one of the most successful groups in the Christian rock realm, and their bold lyrics and anthemic tracks have made their last few albums a hit with fans. Led by the searing vocals of Trevor McNevan, TFK's music has been featured in places such as NASCAR, WWE and ESPN, and they continue to be a source of encouragement to rock fans and music listeners of all genres. Song You Should Hear: "Running With Giants"
8. Building 429 Behind The Name:Building 429 is another band who found their name in Scripture, drawing from Ephesians 4:29 which states "Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs." Why We Love Them: Pop/rock outfit Building 429 is another band that has stood the test of time in this industry. They burst onto the scene with 2004's "Glory Defined" and began to make a name for themselves as they took home the Dove Award for 2005's New Artist of the Year. Over the years, their pop sound and always encouraging lyrics have made them a fan favorite, and their live shows have evolved to more of a night of worship than just your basic rock concert. Still going strong a decade later, the B429 guys are true road warriors, playing over 200 dates a year and continuing to make music that lifts the spirits of anyone who will listen. Song You Should Hear: "Impossible"
Caitlin Lassiter is a North Carolina girl that loves Jesus, music, concerts, writing, C.S. Lewis, and sweet tea... She's also a worship leader dreaming of traveling the world to share God's love.
NEW!THE YEAR THAT WAS
Top 10 Editorial 2024
NRT Staff interviews, devotionals, and editorial that took off this year
ADVERTISEMENT
NEW!THE YEAR THAT WAS
Top 10 News 2024
The top Christian music news headlines of the year
NEW!THE YEAR THAT WAS
Top 10 Songs 2024
NRT's Kevin Davis shares his favorite songs from the past year
NEW!THE YEAR THAT WAS
Top 10 Albums 2024
NRT's Kevin Davis shares his favorite albums from the past year
NEW!NRT EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW
Amanda Jenkins
The Chosen's Bible Series author talks to NRT