Earlier this month, English singer-songwriter James Blunt promised fans that he would legally change his name to whatever they wanted if the re-release of his 2004 album, Back to Bedlam, went to No. 1 on the UK album chart. Now, the reissue has officially arrived, and though it’s yet to top the charts, Blunt has revealed what his new name will be if it does: Blunty McBluntface.
The reveal was made in a sketch video posted by Blunt on Twitter, depicting him attempting to enter a Warner Music Group building, only to be stopped by the front desk because they’re not expecting anyone named “James Blunt.” From there, Blunt tries to get in using a few of the top-contending names — like “Jimmy Spliff,” “Blames Junt,” “Divock Origi,” “James Cucking Funt,” and “Itsy Bitsy Teeny Weeny Pop Star Four Chord Song Machiney” — all to no avail.
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Then, with a dutiful face, Blunt makes a final guess, “Blunty McBluntface,” and is finally granted access. Walking away, he mutters “People have no imagination,” to which the front desk receptionist replies, “The people have spoken.” Watch the clip below.
Notably, when Blunt made the announcement regarding the name-change campaign, he said that he’d be happy with whatever the public chose “as long as it’s not, you know, Blunty McBluntface.” Nonetheless, he’s now shared a tweet showing that the suggestion was the most-liked response, getting over 33,000 likes.
The name also comes as a reference to the popular internet trope of naming things inappropriately when given the chance, referred to as “McBoatfacing” ever since the public named a polar scientific research vessel Boaty McBoatface in 2016.
The 20th anniversary edition of Back to Bedlam officially arrived yesterday, October 11th. Featuring Blunt’s biggest hit, “You’re Beautiful,” the album was a smash success when it first debuted, spending 10 weeks at the top of the charts and earning the distinction of being the best-selling album in the UK during the 2000s.
Up next, Blunt — who might be McBluntface soon — will embark on a sprawling 2025 tour in support of the reissue, which will include a run of dates across North America. Get tickets here.
The people have spoken – if the 20th Anniversary Edition of Back to Bedlam is Number 1 next Friday, my new name will legally be… pic.twitter.com/CoMsjFJpy8
— James Blunt (@JamesBlunt) October 11, 2024
— James Blunt (@JamesBlunt) October 12, 2024