IPA Pronunciation

หˆpeษช.oสŠ.lษ™

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Syllables

The name Payola is derived from the term historically associated with the music industry, referring to the practice of paying for radio play. Though originally linked to a controversial context, as a name it evokes a sense of melody, rhythm, and artistic expression connected to music's power and influence.

Cultural Significance of Payola

Payola as a term has historical significance tied to the mid-20th century US music industry, where it denoted the controversial practice of paying for radio airtime. While the term itself was scandalous, the name Payola transforms this into a symbol of musical influence and creativity, capturing an edgy, artistic vibe. Its rarity as a given name adds uniqueness and modern flair.

Payola Name Popularity in 2025

Today, Payola is extremely rare as a baby name, appealing mainly to parents who appreciate music history or seek a bold, unconventional choice. It fits well in modern times where unique, meaningful names are favored. Though not ranked in popular baby name charts, its distinctiveness and musical connotations make it an intriguing option for creative families.

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Popular Nicknames10

PayaLolaPayYolaPipPollyPayiLaliPayaBearPaz
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International Variations11

PaiolaPeyolaPaolaPayolaePayolahPailahPeyolahPeyollaPayyolaPaeyolaPayyolah
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Similar Names You Might Love9

Name Energy & Essence

The name Payola carries the essence of โ€œGift of music or melodyโ€ from English (modern coinage) tradition. Names beginning with "P" often embody qualities of patience, perfectionism, and philosophical thinking.

Symbolism

Cultural Significance

Payola as a term has historical significance tied to the mid-20th century US music industry, where it denoted the controversial practice of paying for radio airtime. While the term itself was scandalous, the name Payola transforms this into a symbol of musical influence and creativity, capturing an edgy, artistic vibe. Its rarity as a given name adds uniqueness and modern flair.

Alan Freed

American DJ credited with popularizing the term 'payola' during the 1950s pay-for-play scandal

Dick Clark

Television personality who testified during the payola investigations, helping shape music broadcasting

Sam Phillips

Founder of Sun Records, indirectly connected to payola era by promoting early rock and roll artists

Murray the K

Famed radio DJ who was active during the payola era, influential in music promotion

Alan Freed Jr.

Son of Alan Freed, noted for preserving his father's legacy in music history

Jerry Wexler

Music journalist and producer notable during the payola era's impact on the industry

Clyde Otis

Songwriter and producer who worked in the music industry during the payola era

Paul Anka

Singer-songwriter who rose to fame during the payola era, influenced by radio promotion dynamics

Payola

๐ŸŒSpanish

Payola

๐ŸŒFrench

Payola

๐ŸŒGerman

Payola

๐ŸŒItalian

ใƒšใ‚คใ‚ชใƒฉ

๐ŸŒJapanese

ไฝฉๅฅฅๆ‹‰

๐ŸŒChinese

ุจุงูŠูˆู„ุง

๐ŸŒArabic

Fun Fact About Payola

The term 'payola' originated in the 1950s during a major scandal involving radio DJs accepting bribes to play certain records, making the name Payola a unique choice with an intriguing historical backstory.

Personality Traits for Payola

Individuals named Payola are often perceived as creative, passionate, and independent. They are likely to have a strong artistic streak, a magnetic personality, and a love for music or performance. Payolas tend to be original thinkers who embrace uniqueness and stand out in a crowd with confidence and charm.

What does the name Payola mean?

Payola is a English (modern coinage) name meaning โ€œGift of music or melodyโ€. The name Payola is derived from the term historically associated with the music industry, referring to the practice of paying for radio play. Though originally linked to a controversial context, as a name it evokes a sense of melody, rhythm, and artistic expression connected to music's power and influence.

How do you pronounce Payola?

Payola is pronounced (IPA: หˆpeษช.oสŠ.lษ™). It has 2 syllables with the pattern N/A.

What are nicknames for Payola?

Popular nicknames for Payola include: Paya, Lola, Pay, Yola, Pip, Polly, Payi, Lali, PayaBear, Paz.

Who are famous people named Payola?

Famous people named Payola include: , , , , .

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Payola is a beautiful English (modern coinage) name meaning โ€œGift of music or melodyโ€. The name Payola is derived from the term historically associated with the music industry, referring to the practice of paying for radio play. Though originally linked to a controversial context, as a ...

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