All bands, whatever genre, release merchandise to be able to promote themselves effortlessly. Fans see this as a way to somehow connect with their idols.
Why is band merchandise something members should focus on, especially during tours and concerts? First, it helps generate revenue. Second, any product that a fan wears is instantly a promotion. Your fans are like a walking endorsement!
This article walks you through the best band merch you can use.
#1: Personalized Concert Shirts
Merchandise is a sure way to announce that you were there subtly. Selling customized shirts give the fans a rush of excitement because of the exclusivity and uniqueness. You can start by planning the color of the shirt. Common colors used are:
- Black (this is a classic color for band merch since the 90s. If you want to make the design’s colors stand out, this is the perfect color)
- White
- Navy blue
Next, a design should be decided upon because fans are going to wear these shirts for a long time, and you want to make it simple, attractive, and memorable. You can choose from the following:
- The exact logo of the band in front, and the concert date at the back.
- Exclusive album art
- Lyrics from the most played song on the album
- Custom-made graphics designs that represent the band’s genre
#2: Bobblehead Versions Of Each Band Member
Bobbleheads are the closest the fans can get to remembering moments during the concert. Plus, you can customize the product by making it wear the same attire of band members on that memorable night. Imagine yourself having these musician bobbleheads, exciting isn’t it? Just make sure though that the manufacturers capture the exact features in such a way that fans won’t regret buying this item. Customers can place these bobbleheads on their car dashboard, office desks, and cabinet tops.
#3: Posters And Stickers
Posters and stickers are one of the cheapest and most cost-effective products because you can display them at the registration table or the walls of the venue, adding to the promotion strategy. The design can range from album art to anything the band members create, which excites the fans more. Another strategy that can earn money is to sell the band’s art and design through sticker production. These items are small and easy to use, as well as cheap. Overall, fans that are on a budget and your band’s advertisement can benefit from this product release.
#4: A Six-Panel Cap
Caps are the most underrated band merchandise because manufacturers tend to overlook the fact that many of the fans prefer to make a statement using this product. Most of the time, if a fan buys a cap, they almost always wear it everywhere they go. You can place the design in the front portion of the hat, or you can put the band’s name at the back, near the strap.
#5: Custom-Designed Guitar Picks
Guitar picks are a universal band merch that attracts both guitar and non-guitar players. Fans can use this product immediately after purchase, or they can add it to the long list of band memorabilia they already have. Designs can be anything the band wants it to be. You can use the following:
- Logo
- Exclusive art
- Art made by different members
- Each band member’s (signature in gold print)
- A picture of the band as a whole
- An image of each band member
- A plain backdrop with gold engraving or marbled designs
You can sell a guitar pick individually or by the pack. You may also opt to give these products away for free. The fans always appreciate a kind gesture from their idols.
#6: Custom Keychains
Another easy to make and easy to sell product are keychains. Materials can be of rubber, metal, or plastic. You can put the band’s preferred design in a round or square backdrop. You may also print the exact band name, as long as there are no sharp edges that can be painful when held or used. Lastly, make sure that keychains you distribute are not too heavy and not too light.
#7: Round, Glossy Pins
The classic, round pins are the best for fans who want a small piece of concert memorabilia. Design ideas are endless. In line with the stickers and posters, you may also give these for free every time they purchase a tee shirt or bobblehead.
#8: Recyclable Eco Bags
Be the band that cares for mother nature by producing tote bags that come from recyclable materials. Not only will the fans love you more, but you can also attract potential new followers with the big green decision you just made. You may approach manufacturers of both local and international bags and tell them about the raw materials you want to use. Some design suggestions are as follows:
- An all-black tote bag with the band’s name
- A white bag with black straps
- A simple design with custom-designed pins
Another option is to produce simple eco bags and include free stickers, posters, guitar picks, or pins.
Courtesy of Lydia Lee.