Turn up the volume and get ready to rock with this episode of Promo Perspectives! We’re continuing our series on band merch and bringing you a conversation with Angelica and Caleb from Merch Media.

Angelica and Caleb are music lovers at heart, and they've turned that passion into a business that helps independent artists create awesome promotional products. You'll hear about their own love for music, from the iconic concert experiences that shaped them to the artists that inspire them every day.

We dive deep into the world of band merchandise, covering topics like:

• The difference between official and "unofficial" merch.

• How to get creative and stand out in the music market.

• Why band merch is a vital source of income for artists.

• The importance of online stores and other emerging tech like NFC chips.

• The value of networking and building connections within the music community.

Whether you're a supplier, distributor, or a fan who wants to support your favorite artists, this episode is packed with great tips and insights.

On this episode of the Promo Perspectives podcast, we dive into the world of band merchandise from the distributor's point of view. We're joined by Adrian and Shadow from Seven Sins Printing and Embroidery, a company dedicated to helping artists translate their visual identity into profitable merch.

Adrian and Shadow share their story of how they immersed themselves in the Texas music scene and the unique challenges and triumphs of working with bands. They discuss the importance of understanding different music genres' preferences, from the types of garments to specific artwork styles. They also reveal the secrets behind their success, including their commitment to fair pricing, lightning-fast communication, and building strong, lasting relationships with their clients.

Whether you're a distributor looking to break into the band merch market or a supplier wanting to understand this niche better, Adrian and Shadow offer invaluable insights and practical advice. They touch on everything from navigating the unpredictability of tour life to the power of word-of-mouth marketing within the music community.

Episode Highlights:

• The Nuances of Merch: Discover how different music genres, from death metal to alternative, have distinct preferences for apparel types, artwork sizing, and even colors.

• The Power of Connection: Learn why communication and building a relationship with your clients are just as important as the quality of your product.

• Beyond the T-Shirt: Adrian and Shadow discuss the deeper meaning of band merch as a "badge of honor" and a conversation starter, fostering a sense of community among fans.

Don't miss this insightful conversation with two passionate professionals who are making a real impact in the music industry.

The live entertainment industry is booming, and promotional products distributors have a massive opportunity to profit from this growth. In this episode of Promo Perspectives, we take a deep dive into the $14 billion band merchandise industry.

Hosted by SAGE's Gabe Gotay, a musician himself, this podcast explores the history of band merch, from Elvis Presley's "I Love Elvis" buttons to the Grateful Dead's iconic t-shirts and Taylor Swift's Eras Tour. We break down the stats and explore why band merchandise is not just a side hustle, but a crucial revenue stream for artists.

In this episode, we discuss:

• The numbers: The band merch industry is projected to reach over $16 billion by 2030. Learn which genres and products are driving the most sales.

• The history: We trace the evolution of band merch, from early pioneers like Elvis and the Beatles to modern-day icons and the rise of the t-shirt as a cultural canvas.

• The strategy: Discover how to find and connect with independent artists and mid-tier touring acts—the ideal clients for distributors. We'll also cover common pain points and how you can position yourself as a valuable partner.

This is the first episode in a series all about the music merch market. Stay tuned for upcoming episodes where we'll hear from distributors and musicians themselves!