This is a funny thread...guy who started it is "mike Anthony" - the drummer from Van Halen. Later on, we see "Paul Mitchell", who I can only assume gives out hair spray samples at his shows...and finally, and I'm sure he was joking, but "Dexter Manley" is a football player. These people are already famous and they don't even know it.
I thougt about using a stage name for weeks before my first gig. If someone famous had my name, I might consider it. Other than that, I could'nt get myself to change it. It seemed like I was being phony. My mudcat name is my dog's name. (my other dog's name is Indiana, and I didnt' want to put up the bad jokes) So, in closing, I say use your real name...
Misophist: If your name was James Taylor, Eric Clapton, or even Mance Lipscomb, it would seem un-exciting. I think if you have a talent, your name really won't matter.
Spartacus