Is it Admiration or Deception to Use an Existing Artist's Name as Your Own?

It is possible for a true artist to start their career using a name like 5th Element, but it is highly unlikely that they would not do a quick search to see if the name is already taken or available. Doing so shows a lack of consideration for other artists and their work.

Admiration is a natural part of the creative process. Many musicians start their journey inspired by the works of other artists. They grow and develop their skills, sound, and style over time. It is not uncommon for musicians to create music inspired by the works of other artists.

Deception, on the other hand, is using the name of another artist as your own. This is especially true when it's not an individual solo artist using a person's first and last name. This is an unethical practice and shows a lack of creativity and originality.

For example, artist 5th Element released their first album, Blue Rain, on CD in 1999, and it has always been available for MP3 download and streaming on all popular platforms.
However, a duo is using the name unlawfully, which is deceptive and unethical.

While imitation may be a form of flattery, it is important to be creative and original in your work. It's better to be an individual than a clone of someone else. Using another artist's name as your own without their permission is not only deceptive but also shows a lack of respect for other artists and their work. Aspiring artists should strive to be unique and original in their creative endeavors.

“Imposters… form of fraud... involves impersonating creators by uploading... song to streaming services and illegally collecting creators’ legitimate royalties. This is a common problem faced by artists… for example: Imposters post… on streaming services under a slightly different name, aiming to divert some streams (and hopefully royalties) their way.” –Billboard

What's even more disturbing is the fact that the duo using the name unlawfully is being supported by Warner Music Group, a major record label. It raises the question of why a reputable company would associate with artists engaging in such unethical practices.

“Nobody’s immune” to streaming fraud, says Christine Barnum, chief revenue officer at the distributor CD Baby. “So people are finally having the realization, ‘Yeah, this is a problem.’ ” –CDBaby

To learn more please visit Abet News at https://abetnews.com/admiration-deception/