Definition
“Remember the Name” is a song recorded by American hip‑hop/rock group Fort Minor, the side project of Linkin Park’s Mike Shinoda. It was released as the second single from Fort Minor’s debut studio album The Rising Tied (2005).
Overview
The track was issued on June 22 2005 through Warner Bros. Records and was co‑produced by Mike Shinoda and Jeff Blue. “Remember the Name” blends rap verses with a rock‑influenced chorus and features guest verses from the hip‑hop duo Styles of Beyond (Ryu and Tak Bir). The song’s lyrical content focuses on perseverance, ambition, and the formulaic breakdown of success.
Commercially, the single entered the US Billboard Hot 100, peaking at #20, and reached #2 on the Hot Rap Songs chart. Internationally, it charted within the top 40 in several countries, including Canada, Australia, and the United Kingdom. The accompanying music video, directed by Jessy Terrero, depicts a stylized performance intercut with images of athletes and performers, reinforcing its motivational theme.
“Remember the Name” has been widely used in media, notably in sports broadcasts, video game soundtracks (e.g., NBA 2K10), and promotional campaigns. Its distinctive opening hook—“This is ten percent luck, twenty percent skill…”—has become a frequently quoted motivational passage.
Etymology/Origin
The title “Remember the Name” derives directly from the song’s central refrain, which urges listeners to imprint the speaker’s identity through achievement and dedication. The phrase is a straightforward imperative in contemporary English, employing the verb “remember” with the noun “name” to convey lasting recognition.
Characteristics
- Genre: Hip‑hop/rap rock; incorporates elements of alternative hip‑hop, nu‑metal, and motivational spoken‑word.
- Length: 3 minutes 32 seconds (album version).
- Composition: Written by Mike Shinoda, Ryu, Tak Bir, and Brad Delson. Production features layered percussion, distorted guitar riffs, and a prominent vocal chant.
- Structure: Introductory spoken‑word segment outlining a “formula” for success, followed by alternating rap verses and a melodic, anthemic chorus.
- Lyrics: Emphasize quantifiable factors of success (e.g., “ten percent luck, twenty percent skill”) and a declaration of personal determination.
- Reception: Praised for its motivational tone and crossover appeal; often cited in lists of empowering or sports‑related anthems.
Related Topics
- Fort Minor (musical group)
- The Rising Tied (album)
- Mike Shinoda (artist, producer)
- Styles of Beyond (hip‑hop duo)
- Linkin Park (associated act)
- Motivational music in sports broadcasting
- Rap rock genre
Note: All information presented is based on publicly available, verifiable sources.