Check Out the Merch Table

I listen to a lot of music, and I've been to more shows than I can count (many of which were in basements and certainly broke fire codes). Because of this, I have my fair share of concert and band tees.

Recently, we reported a few stories about music merchandise—a new app lets music fans preorder concert merch, Justin Bieber probably should have hired a proofreader for his new T-shirts, and Kanye West made a fortune on his newest line of clothing. What I've noticed, however, is that most bands use shirts as their main advertising medium, and it always stands out to me when I see a band using something unusual to get their names out there. So, it got me thinking—what other items could be used as band merch?

1. USB Drives

Most music is digital these days. Vinyl is having its resurgence, but most new records I buy come with a digital download code, too. So, why don't bands throw their names on USB flash drives, like this Steel Swiveling USB Flash Drive from STOPNGO Line? So, when a fan inevitably gives the MP3 files to their friends, they can promote the band a little more.

2. Sunblock

Have you ever been to music festivals? They're hot. Festivals, like Bonnaroo, Warped Tour and Coachella, typically take place in the hottest period of the year, and involve a lot of standing around in the sun. Fans always will remember the band that hooked them up with that life-saving bottle of sunbock, like the 1.5 oz. SPF 30 Sunscreen Bottle with Carabiner and Custom Imprint from Leashables by OraLabs Inc.

3. Calendars

Some music fans are so dedicated that they follow their favorite bands around on tour. If a band gives out calendars, like this 30 mil Business Card Magnet and 12 Sheet Calendar from BIC Graphic, with the shows listed, fans will know exactly when and where the band is playing. The calendar already is marked for them!

What other creative ways can bands market themselves? Have you seen some out-there items at the merch table? Let me know!