Adam Marquardt
Well folks, the vote is in. And we sure hope your business isn’t structured around any of these terms below. Some of the world’s finest musical artists decided to name their hit songs after products, job titles, exercises, and even dreamy holidays. Their intellectual property not only dominates the airwaves, but also Google’s first page results.
Which artists can you thank for making your first page SEO so difficult to achieve? Let’s start with number one.
1. “The Sign” - Ace of Base
Boy I would sure hate to be in the sign industry these days. The 1993 pop-hit from Sweden’s prized jewel, Ace of Base, is recognized as the most popular “sign” on the internet. A 2002 hit movie starring Mel Gibson and Joaquin Phoenix doesn’t help those working in the sign industry either. In fact, it’s not until page 2 that The Sign Depot -- a one-stop-shop for all of your sign needs -- shows up.
2. “American Boy” - Estelle ft Kanye West
“Imma let you finish...” But first I have some bad news for all of you 'American Boys' out there. 'British girl', Estelle, along with her counterpart, Kanye West, stole the microphone from us 'American Boys'. The 2008 hit song from the pair truly dominates the first page search rankings here. The only competitor sharing the first page? Boy Scouts of America.
3. “White Christmas” - Bing Crosby
Who can think of a more perfectly fantasized about holiday than a White Christmas? Nobody, of course! Thanks to the 1942 hit song and 1954 hit film (both featuring Bing Crosby), a “White Christmas” is what we all dream about each year on Christmas Eve. Personally, I save my wishes for the groundhog who doesn’t see his shadow, but that’s besides the point.
“White Christmas” is a positive, uplifting, cheerful term to most folks who celebrate Christmas. It would make for a great local Christmas store name, maybe even a festive white chocolate candy bar with a hint of peppermint cheer. That is, if you don’t care about first page Google rankings. High-five, Bing. High-five.
4. “Thriller” - Michael Jackson
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Is your theme park preparing to open next summer’s greatest thriller?
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Does Steven Spielberg have another thriller up his sleeve?
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Is that video game you’ve been working on for years one heck of a thriller?!
Good luck. You’ll need a new tag line. I have two words for you: Michael. Jackson.
5. “The Boxer” - Simon & Garfunkel
One of my personal favorites. An American classic off of the 1970 hit album, Bridge Over Troubled Water. "The Boxer" has officially beat out the entire sport of Boxing!
With a little help from movies sharing the same title, not even Muhammad Ali can be credited with being considered, 'The Boxer'.
6. “Kung Fu Fighting” - Carl Douglas
What is it with songs centered around the martial arts?
Simply thinking about this song, it will get stuck in your head. And I apologize for that.
However, those who have a business involved in the martial art of Kung Fu, will have a very difficult time ranking on the first page of Google. ?Thanks to none other than the Jamaican disco phenomenon, Carl Douglas. It isn’t until the bottom of page three that you come across anything relevant outside of Carl Douglas’ hit song -- Kung Fu Fighting Tips.
Conclusion
This blog post is by no means intended to be a serious discussion. However, it should at least make you think about what other pop culture themes could potentially affect your brand, product, or industry. Sometimes your product or brand may compete in SEO for the same proper term of another item in an entirely different industry. Do your homework and involve keyword research in every product, service, or brand launch you develop.
Photo Credit: RetroLand U.S.A., Zellaby, Leo Reynolds