Panic! At The Disco fans are only now learning the real inspiration behind the band’s name, even though the group disbanded in 2023 after nearly two decades in the music industry.
While the band’s name has often been associated with iconic English rockers The Smiths, it turns out the true story is tied to a much closer, more personal connection.
How Panic! At The Disco Got Their Name
Brendon Urie, the frontman of Panic! At The Disco, recently revealed that the band’s name was inspired not by The Smiths but by an emo band from California.
Specifically, the name comes from the track “Panic” by a rock group called Name Taken, originally from Orange County.
The song’s lyrics include the line, “Panic at the disco/Sat back and took it so slow/Are you nervous? Are you shaking,” which left a lasting impression on Brendon and his bandmates.
Interestingly, Name Taken was initially known as “All That’s Left,” before changing their name and influencing the band that would become Panic! At The Disco.
Despite the confusion over the name’s origin, it was this song, not the legendary British band, that provided the inspiration.
The Band’s Journey and Breakup
Formed in 2004 in Las Vegas, Panic! At The Disco initially included Brendon Urie on vocals and guitar, Ryan Ross on guitar, Spencer Smith on drums, and Brent Wilson on bass.
The band’s lineup would change over the years, but they remained a staple in the pop-punk and emo scenes.
Their debut album, A Fever You Can’t Sweat Out, released in 2005, became a huge success.
It included the smash hit “I Write Sins Not Tragedies,” which peaked at number seven on the US Billboard Hot 100 and helped the album achieve triple platinum status.
However, after years of success and several lineup changes, Brendon announced the end of the band in 2023, just before the birth of his daughter with wife Sarah Orzechowski.
In a heartfelt social media post, he explained his decision to step away from the band and focus on his growing family.
Brendon Urie’s Final Message to Fans
In his emotional statement, Brendon reflected on the band’s incredible journey, saying, “Growing up in Vegas, I could’ve never imagined where this life would take me.
So many places all over the world, and all the friends we’ve made along the way.”
He expressed his gratitude for the fans who had supported the band, whether from the very beginning or more recently.
He continued, “But sometimes a journey must end for a new one to begin.
We’ve been trying to keep it to ourselves, though some of you may have heard… Sarah and I are expecting a baby very soon!
The prospect of being a father and getting to watch my wife become a mother is both humbling and exciting. I look forward to this next adventure.”
Brendon ended the post by paying tribute to the fans: “I am going to bring this chapter of my life to an end and put my focus and energy on my family, and with that Panic! At The Disco will be no more.”
He thanked fans for their immense support over the years, expressing his deep appreciation for their love and loyalty.
A Last Farewell to Fans
Brendon’s farewell included one final message to their followers: “Thank you for existing.”
He also promised fans one last tour across Europe and the UK, where the band would share one final performance before closing this chapter.
Although Panic! At The Disco may no longer exist, their impact on the music world and their devoted fanbase will always be remembered.