Joel Madden & Nicole Richie Explain Sparrow's Unusual Name

Joel Madden and Nicole Richie have shed some light on the inspiration behind their new son Sparrow James Midnight's unusual name.

"We have different tastes in names," the House of Harlow designer tells People magazine. "Sparrow was one we both liked. I liked the way it sounded with Harlow."

Joel adds, “It reminded me of the Johnny Cash song A Boy Named Sue. My worry raising a son in Hollywood is, what will he have to struggle for? I wanted to give him a name that he’s going to have to stand up for. I love it, I think it’s a beautiful name.”

The Good Charlotte rocker heaps praise upon his girlfriend Nicole, who he says is a wonderful mom to both Sparrow and big sister Harlow, 21 months.

“While I’m working, it all piles on Nicole. She takes care of the kids, and it never gets to her. She doesn’t feel like she’s giving up anything – she is wholeheartedly their mom.”