The band Fountains of Wayne is named after a specific lawn ornament store that was located in Wayne, New Jersey.
Formed in the mid-1990s, the band chose its unique moniker as a direct reference to this particular retail establishment.
Origins of the Name
The namesake store, "Fountains of Wayne," was a real business specializing in garden decor, fountains, and other outdoor ornaments. It was situated in Wayne, New Jersey, serving as a local landmark for many years. The store ultimately closed its doors in 2009.
The Store's Cultural Appearance
Beyond its role as a local business and inspiration for the band's name, the Fountains of Wayne store also made a notable appearance in popular culture. It was featured in an episode of the critically acclaimed HBO television series, The Sopranos. Fans of the show might recognize the store from the episode titled "Another Toothpick".
Initial Reception of the Name
While the name eventually became synonymous with the band's identity, it wasn't an immediate hit with everyone. Chris Collingwood, one of the band's co-founders, initially disliked the name. However, as time went on, he reportedly warmed to it, and it became an integral part of the band's brand.
