It’s a little one-the-nose to name a song after your own band, but these five famous rock outfits did it right. Let’s take a look at five self-titled rock songs that make up their bands’ best material!
Videos by American Songwriter
1. Talk Talk
This synth-rock outfit was one of many to come out of the UK during the 1980s, but the quality of their work has stood the test of time. Their self-titled track “Talk Talk” leans more toward pop than rock, but the right blend of elements is there. If you’re a Talk Talk fan, this early-career track will take you back to a very different time.
2. Iron Maiden
This number by rock icons Iron Maiden is one of the most well-known self-titled rock songs out there. The band took their name from a medieval torture device and the song of the same name features a few dual-meaning lyrics. It’s one of Paul Di’Anno’s best works, even if it’s a little hamfisted.
Fun fact: This song was traditionally played live as the entrance theme for the band’s mascot, Eddie.
3. The 1975
Not too many bands release self-titled rock songs nowadays, but The 1975 decided to bring the “tradition” back.
However, this entry on our list is unique. The 1975 has actually released a song called “The 1975” as the opening track for every single album they have released. Each self-titled song on each album is different. We have to say, this is a pretty creative choice.
4. Black Sabbath
“Black Sabbath” is the self-titled rock song of self-titled rock songs. The OGs did it best, after all. This dark, theatrical anthem or “theme song” of sorts is a really memorable one. From Tony Iommi’s powerful riff to the overall dark theme of the song, “Black Sabbath” summarizes the band beautifully.
5. Green Day
Green Day might be known for their ambitious and powerful punk rock works nowadays, but the early days of Green Day were not nearly as serious. This self-titled, early-career track opens up with the sound of a bong doing its thing and dives into lyrics that simply describe a day of smoking that good stuff.
It’s comically bad, no matter how you look at it. But if you’re a diehard Green Day fan, the nostalgia of this 1990 tune is pretty heartwarming.
Photo by Robert Knight Archive/Redferns
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