In almost every interview someone asks what does HIM stand for. I can't even remember our latest lie about that. When Hanson was hot, we said it means Hanson Is Murder. The name doesn't have a particular history. His Infernal Majesty was a totally different band. I think HIM derives from some death metal joke.

In this quote, Ville Valo, the lead vocalist of the Finnish rock band HIM, addresses the common question about the meaning behind the band's name, HIM. Valo humorously reveals that there isn't a significant or deep history behind the name, and that the band has often created playful and invented explanations when asked. For instance, when the band Hanson was popular, they joked that HIM stood for "Hanson Is Murder," reflecting their sarcastic and irreverent approach to such questions.

Valo's mention of "His Infernal Majesty" refers to an earlier, unrelated band with a similar name, which further emphasizes that HIM does not have a profound historical or conceptual origin. Instead, he suggests that the band's name is likely a death metal joke, possibly referencing the dark and rebellious tone that many death metal bands embrace. This playful reference to the genre hints at the band's roots in heavy metal and their inclination toward humor and irony.

Valo's comments also highlight the nonchalance and creativity with which the band chose its name, showcasing their sense of humor and disregard for the typical expectations surrounding band names. The quote reveals that rather than being tied to any particular meaning or deep philosophy, the name HIM was adopted for the band's identity in a lighthearted and spontaneous manner.

Originating from Ville Valo, the quote offers insight into the attitude and mindset of HIM as a band, which is known for blending elements of goth, rock, and metal, while maintaining a distinct and often irreverent persona. His explanation serves as a reminder that sometimes the stories behind artistic names are more about fun and irreverence than about crafting a deep, meaningful legacy.