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By Bernard Baur
RUBBER SPIDER Characula http://characula.com
Characula came up with the idea of rubber spiders because, she claims, she’s just like a black widow spider… she kills her lovers after mating. Additionally, her upcoming record has eight songs (to correspond with eight legs).
BACK2SCHOOL SET
(Patches, Wristbands, Notebooks) Black Veil Brides http://blackveilbrides.net The Black Veil Brides have it covered for back2school items: patches, wristbands and even a notebook for studious fans.
$%"&3*4.0*3-3./&# Many companies offer these items printed with your logo. Or, you can apply your name and logo with clear stickers. See MC’s Promo Directory (p. 56) for suppliers.
BUTTON & PIN
SHORTS
Mastodon http://mastodonrocks.com Mastodon have some very cool merch, from bikinis and sling bags to belt buckles and beach towels. But, the shorts––called “Asstodon”––take the prize.
These are so popular, fans will wear them everywhere.
GUITAR PICK
This item is so cheap you can give it away.
DOG TAGS
Fans love to sport dog tags as a fashion accessory.
KAZOO
Give them away or sell them cheap––encourage fans to play along with you.
DIGITAL DOWNLOAD CARDS
This should be a no-brainer, especially if you’re selling vinyl.
ENERGY DRINK I.V. BAG
The Joint http://thejointlive.com This fruit punch flavored energy potion, enclosed in an IV bag, is not just for those who have an aversion to sunlight. Several acts, as well as music venue The Joint in Los Angeles, CA, offer them. Buyers often combine the bloody shot of energy with their favorite libation.
TAG (for luggage, gear, totes, etc.)
Your fans can personalize everything they own with colorful tags.
COLORING BOOK
Ween http://ween.com
Unusual coloring books are not only fun to create; they’re also great for artistic fans. Ween’s coloring book gets a lot of attention due to its graphic depictions.
SPICE BLEND
Available a variety of colors, these often become collectibles.
LANYARD LAMINATE
(with logo, photo, or album cover) Fans who wear them could get a discount next time. Make a few with “CREW” too.
KEY CHAIN
Rick Steffen http://ricksteffen.com
Practical… and some even include a bottle opener.
West Florida singer-songwriter Rick Steffen spices up his fans’ lives with his own blend of spices, called “Rick’s Trick.”
TOTE BAG
Offered in a range of sizes, you can find a tote that meets your budget.
TAMBOURINE
The Matthew Davidson Band http://matthewdavidson.net The Matthew Davidson Band sells small plastic tambourines with the group’s logo applied via clear stickers. Since they often perform at family-friendly venues such as restaurants, festivals and zoos, children (and adults) enjoy using them during the show.
PLASTIC / RUBBER BRACELET, WRISTBAND & RING
TIN & CONTAINER LYRIC BOOK
Cisco Adler http://facebook.com/ciscoadlerpresents Cisco Adler recently released an EP, Mahalo, via his indie label Bananabeat Records. For pre-sale promotions, he offered a digital download of the EP and a 19-page Lyric Book, featuring original artwork inspired by the songs on both his debut album Aloha and his new EP. Adler did a limited run of 50, which sold out almost instantly.
Tins and containers are not only useful, there’s also a huge variety to choose from.
USB FLASH DRIVE
Buy them in bulk. Include music, personal photos, lyrics and even short videos.
HANDMADE ITEM
When money is tight, handmade items can save the day. Signed photos, old flyers, original artwork and even locks of hair (in a ziplock bag or tied with a ribbon) can make your merch unique. September 2013
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