Alternative metal band Deftones have an instantly recognizable name that definitely played some part in making them as big as they are. However, it turns out that the group almost changed their name in favor of landing a record deal.
Record producer Monte Conner recently shared a story on social media about how he tried to sign Deftones while working with Roadrunner Records. According to Conner, the band’s manager sent him their demo, and he was “instantly blown away”. However, he also saw more than a few issues with their name.
Conner explains that the word “def” was too closely associated with legendary producer Rick Rubin and his Def American Recordings. At the time, Rubin made an effort to move away from the word, which became “mainstream,” and even changed the name of his record company to American Recordings.
On the other hand, Conner was concerned that the word “tones” would make the band appear like they were part of the “ska” movement that was on full blast in the 1990s.
Frontman Chino Moreno and the rest of the band were willing to listen to Conner’s suggestions and recommended “Engine No. 9”, the title of one of their early songs, as an alternative. However, the deal with Roadrunner Records never materialized, so the Deftones got to keep their name.
“Six months later, they signed to Maverick Records, releasing ‘Adrenaline’ in 1995, and the rest is history,” Conner added. “Seemingly overnight, the album took off, the band blew up, and every metal fan across the globe was wearing a Deftones T-shirt. I sure felt silly.”
