James Blunt admits he's done 'stupid thing' with name change deal

3 Oct 2024

What Did You Overlook?

James Blunt has acknowledged that it was rather "foolish" of him to promise that fans could choose a new name for him if his album reaches the number one spot.

To celebrate the 20th anniversary of his first studio album, Back To Bedlam, released in 2004, the artist is putting it out again. He has promised fans that if the album reaches the number one spot on the charts, he will change his name to the most popular choice suggested by the public. On The One Show, he revealed some of the ideas, including Blunty McBluntface, which is a playful reference to the name Boaty McBoatface, famously chosen in a public vote for a research ship.

However, he admitted that he wishes to retain his own nickname.

Understanding The What, How, And Why

Host Alex Jones mentioned it, implying that Blunt had acted irresponsibly. Blunt responded by calling it "a foolish move."

"The people in Britain are very kind, and the ideas have certainly been exciting to anticipate," he continued. "If I had to choose a favorite, I think it's got to be the Itsy Bitsy Teeny Weeny Pop Star Forecourt Song Machiney. I'd personally pick Jimmy Smith, but as we know, the British public has spoken, and the top contender right now is Blunty McBluntface."

Looking to turn my life upside down? If the "Back to Bedlam" 20th Anniversary Edition hits the top spot, I'm changing my name legally! Share your name ideas in the comments, and the one with the most likes will be chosen. #jameswho pic.twitter.com/LOxLggNt5q

— James Blunt (@JamesBlunt) October 2, 2024

"I had to tell my kids that James Blunt may no longer be here," said the celebrity, who has two sons.

"I'm feeling optimistic about being able to retain my name," he remarked. He then laughed, saying, "My kids were a bit upset last night, but I reassured them, 'Don't fret, you'll still have to refer to me as Sir'."

More Insights From James Blunt On The One Show

Blunt shared his feelings about the moment the album hit number one on the charts, admitting that he felt "really scared" because it signified a shift from being just a musician to becoming a public figure.

Back To Bedlam, featuring popular tracks like You're Beautiful and Goodbye My Lover, topped the charts in 2004, launching Blunt into the spotlight. Despite this success, he admitted that he had anticipated it would only reach the second spot.

James Blunt mentioned that reaching the top spot for the first time was quite frightening. (Source: BBC)

"It was incredible," he recalled. "I received a call from my radio representative at Atlantic Records letting me know that the album and the song hit number one. It really scared me because I had always thought of myself as just a musician, and I was only anticipating getting to number two."

"However, when you reach the top, you start to transition from being just a musician to becoming a celebrity, and that can be quite intimidating. You become much more visible than you might prefer."