A band's music is of course their number one priority (or at least it should be). But the band logo is an essential part of their cultural identity and absolutely vital if the band intends on reaching a mass audience. A single identifiable logo can deliver huge results in marketing a band and solidifying a fan base. The application of the logo to merchandise is one of the most important ways to spread the word and visually reinforce the band's impact. It is absolutely no different than any other company or organization trying to increase their sales and market share. A lot of jokes have been made about Prince's symbol that he said was his name from 1993-2000. But it has become a brand image that is immediately recognizable to a worldwide audience. You can put that symbol anywhere and people know it's Prince. And just because he no longer chooses it to use as his name, he still continues to use it as his brand and his universal logo for all he's about. He even made it the shape of his stage at the Super Bowl last year. The Rolling Stones tongue logo is another example. It is immediately recognizable as a Rolling Stones icon. And it has been re-imagined and rendered so many different ways and in so many difference styles, it's flexibility in presentation makes it a hugely successful marketing tool. The power of a symbol is a valuable connection and communication tool that deserves attention. There is an art to it and when it's right, it's amazing. Spinner put out a list of the 25 best logos. Check it out via Abduzeedo.com.