Can 'Back to Bedlam' reclaim its throne?
Blunt’s debut album ranks 17th in UK chart history. Photo: File
In a move that has both amused and intrigued his fans, singer James Blunt has promised to legally change his name to whatever the public decideson one condition. The 50-year-old musician, best known for his iconic hits like You're Beautiful and Goodbye My Lover, has vowed to undergo a name change if the re-release of his debut album Back to Bedlam hits number one in the charts.
Blunt took to X (formerly Twitter) with a cheeky video message, announcing the album's 20th-anniversary re-release set for October 11. He left the public with a challenge: if Back to Bedlam reaches the top spot once again, he'll let fans decide his new name via popular vote.
"I'll let the people decide," Blunt said, but added a playful disclaimer: "If it doesn't go to number one, I'm not changing my name."
Fans have eagerly taken on the challenge, with the hashtag #jameswho sparking a frenzy of creative suggestions. Within hours of Blunt's post, the video had garnered over 800,000 views and 2,000 name ideas, with some rising to viral status. The front-runner? Blunty McBluntface, a callback to the infamous Boaty McBoatface internet poll. Ironically, this is the exact name Blunt jokingly warned against during a recent interview on The Chris Moyles Show.
Other hilarious contenders include Blames Junt, a clever anagram, and James Corden, humorously referencing the well-known actor and TV host. Another strong candidate? Nick Pope, nodding to the Newcastle United footballer.
Blunt's debut album Back to Bedlam remains a monumental success, ranking 17th in UK chart history. To celebrate its 20th year, the singer will also embark on a UK and European tour, hitting iconic venues like London's O2 Arena on February 16, 2025.
For now, fans wait to see if the album will climb to the number one spotand if so, what new name James Blunt will be sporting next year. Will Blunty McBluntface emerge victorious, or will the internet surprise him with something else entirely? One thing's for sure: Blunt's sense of humour remains as sharp as ever.