Forrest Frank and collaborator Noah Hayden are inviting fans into the creative process in an unusual way, offering $10,000 to anyone who can come up with a new name for their band after a copyright dispute forced them to abandon their original moniker.
The duo had been recording and releasing music under the name "Dawn Patrol," a title inspired by early morning surf sessions that became the foundation for their collaborative project. However, after investing time and resources into branding, marketing, and releasing music, the pair were informed of a copyright conflict tied to the name.
According to Frank, the issue escalated after another party claimed infringement, leading to legal complications and even the deactivation of the band's Instagram account. While their distributor reportedly attempted to resolve the situation by offering $10,000 to acquire the name, the matter remained unresolved-ultimately forcing the duo to start over.
Rather than retreat, Frank and Hayden have turned the setback into an opportunity for fan engagement. In a recent social media post, Frank announced that the same $10,000 figure would now go to a fan who proposes a new name, with submissions being accepted through the comments.
The project itself was born out of a season of shared rhythms and faith. Frank explained that he and Hayden began surfing together regularly in the early mornings-often heading out at 5:30 a.m. before their children woke up, a time surfers refer to as "dawn patrol." What started as a lifestyle rhythm quickly evolved into a creative partnership, with the pair writing and recording an entire album shaped by those moments of reflection, worship, and connection with God.
Frank, who has emerged as one of the most influential voices in contemporary Christian music, has dominated charts in recent years with songs like "GOOD DAY," "YOUR WAY'S BETTER," and "LEMONADE." Known for blending upbeat pop production with bold expressions of faith, he has built a wide-reaching audience that extends beyond traditional Christian music spaces.
The new collaborative project with Hayden continues that trajectory, combining surf culture aesthetics with worship-driven themes that reflect gratitude, joy, and spiritual renewal. While the loss of the "Dawn Patrol" name presents a logistical challenge, it has not slowed the momentum behind the music itself.
Fans have already begun flooding comment sections with name suggestions, turning the situation into a viral moment of creativity and community. The final decision-and the $10,000 prize-will go to one selected contributor.
As the duo prepares to relaunch under a new identity, the story underscores both the challenges of navigating intellectual property in the digital age and the power of audience connection in shaping the future of independent music projects.
