EXCLUSIVE: Melb Band Change Name After Claims Of Being Culturally Inappropriate

Melbourne band The Do Yo Thangs have confirmed it will change its title following feedback that the name is culturally inappropriate. 

The Music can exclusively reveal that the alt R&B outfit will now move forward as Leisure Centre.

"The feedback highlighted the inappropriate use of African American vernacular as branding by a predominantly Anglo Australian group," band leader and songwriter Hugh Rabinovici said.

"Admittedly, when I named the band, this was not on my radar. Although in the years since starting the band I’ve learnt more about the dynamics of power, privilege and identity, I evidently hadn’t reflected on this in relation to our band name. Rightly, this feedback made me uncomfortable. After some discussion we quickly acknowledged the name was out of line with our values and we needed to do something about it."

Read the full statement below.

The move has also resulted in a delay of the release of the group's debut album, Mind Full, which is now due out on 20 July via HopeStreet Recordings. 

Meanwhile, Leisure Centre's forthcoming single, Don't Let Go, is set for release on 20 April.

We recently received some feedback on the name of our band. The feedback highlighted the inappropriate use of African American vernacular as branding by a predominantly Anglo Australian group.

Admittedly, when I named the band, this was not on my radar. Although in the years since starting the band I’ve learnt more about the dynamics of power, privilege and identity, I evidently hadn’t reflected on this in relation to our band name. Rightly, this feedback made me uncomfortable. After some discussion we quickly acknowledged the name was out of line with our values and we needed to do something about it.

I genuinely appreciate the feedback and the time and thought that was put into it. I’m grateful for this opportunity to grow and develop, to hold up a mirror to what we’ve been doing and make a change. I’m excited about the new name. Leisure Centre for me represents an iconic part of the suburban landscape in which I grew up, along with some poolside good times. I think it’s a much better fit for who we are as a group.