Why the name change?
First, we recently ran into the established Australian band, My Disco. It’s a risky legal situation to keep our name, along with being plain confusing. After thinking about it more, we also realized we were also pretty tired of explaining to everyone “well, it’s not actually Disco music.” With all the new stuff about to come out, we decided now was the time to rename the band. And truth be told, we’re excited about it! Ella Fitzgerald is a big inspiration for Michelle. In Greek, Ella means “bright light” or “torch.” Then riot: a crowd, a revolution, chaos, a party, or something hilarious. Add this all up and you get an elegant, rebellious, brightly shining torch, moving with crowds of people, spinning out of control, ending in hilarious party chaos.
Stephen on April 6, 2011 at 2:30 am
I just discovered you in a big way – and the name change sounds like a terrible choice. Ella Riot means nothing to anybody – and the need to explain it so much to people is a great weakness – nobody is going to confuse you with a band down under.
The new name is, frankly, really terrible compared to your previous name and brandage.
This coming from a recent fan.
Steve Rush on March 25, 2011 at 11:53 am
FIERCE! Don’t hate me..but damn, I”m brought back to those early Monkees videos – it’s hard to explain what a big damn deal that was (you know they toured with Hendrix, right?). Funny, sassy, silly, hip. Crazy. what a………RIOT!
hugs and fist pumps to all!
Ed Utter on March 23, 2011 at 12:34 am
I support the name change, as I’ve supported all of your epic endeavors. Looking forward to seeing you in Ann Arbor for the first time since moving here to do that whole college thing!
Greg Merle on March 22, 2011 at 7:00 pm
Hey, where’s Theo?
shelly smtih on March 22, 2011 at 2:58 am
I’m so glad you explained it. I was ll confused but I LOVE THIS VIDEOOOOOOOO. LOVE YOU no matter what your name is!!!!
Person on March 19, 2011 at 6:47 am
My only concern is if there will have to be another name change because it’s too close to the group L.A. Riots
Charles Lee on March 18, 2011 at 8:55 pm
Totally understandable! I liked the old name, but Ella Riot sounds awesome too. I love your music! Keep up the great work!
Noobie on March 17, 2011 at 3:29 am
I have already told all of you (minus Joe) that I love the new name and understand why it was necessary. Love you guys and can’t wait to see you guys in concert here at home.
Christo Miner on March 17, 2011 at 12:26 am
^ditto.
MDD, you’ve made a very compelling argument. & you’ve sold me, Ella Riot. 
(we were trying to call you “L.A. Riot”) ;P welcome.
Rachel on March 16, 2011 at 9:01 pm
Whoa, I’m pretty blown away- never imagined there’d be a change in store! I support the group no matter what and dig the music (as usual) but I gotta say, I’m gonna miss the old name…