This name has been off the USA Top 1000 list since before 1900, but it has some great musical credentials: consider American blues singer Alger "Texas" Alexander and country music legend Pat Alger.

Beren is a gender-neutral name that's rare in the US, given last year to 20 baby boys and only five baby girls. But it's simple, distinctive, and yes, strong, plus it comes with an amazing nickname -- Berry.

This English word name meaning bright, clever, talented, and radiant, may be a lot to live up to. Brilliant would make a unique and offbeat virtue name for a parent with big dreams for their little one.

Tanya with a G.