Artists have been selling merch for many years now, so newer ones aren’t really unfamiliar with the game. However, navigating the realm of merchandising requires more than just familiarity so you’ll have to know how to promote merch.
Simply slapping your name on a t-shirt or sticking your face on a coffee mug won’t cut it anymore. In today’s digital landscape, leveraging video content to showcase your merchandise isn’t merely a fashion statement; it’s a calculated move.
This article will be delving into the reasons why rocking your merch isn’t just an option, it’s a rockstar necessity.
So grab your guitar and let’s dive into the why’s.
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SPARKING FAN CRAZE
When your fans tune into your videos, they’re not just watching your moves—they’re eyeing your threads with the intensity of a fashion detective. So, buckle up and make sure your merch game is strong enough to make them swoon.
Some fans even handle social media accounts dedicated to dissecting their favorite artists’ wardrobe choices. Whether you’re strutting down the red carpet or strolling through the streets, they’ll be sleuthing out every apparel piece.
But hold onto your hat (or your merch, rather)—it’s not just about throwing on your gear like a lazy Sunday outfit. You’ve got to rock it with flair.
Sprinkle some style magic, and turn heads like a fashion wizard. Because let’s face it, if you’re not slaying in your merch, what’s the point?
And here’s the kicker: your fans aren’t just admiring your look, they’re plotting to steal it.
Yep, you heard that right. Your style game is so fire, they’ll be raiding their closets to replicate your vibe.
And if you’re repping your merch with that signature swagger? Well, get ready to see those sales numbers skyrocket faster than you can say “fashion icon.”
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TURNING UP THE VOLUME ON PROMOTIONAL SYMPHONY
Sporting your merch in your videos isn’t just about looking good; it’s a subtle way of showcasing the merch itself to your audience.
Think about it: every time you appear on camera wearing your merchandise, you’re essentially giving it a moment in the spotlight. It’s a chance for your brand to be seen by a wide audience and for viewers to see the quality of your products firsthand.
Additionally, wearing your merch can spark excitement among your fans. Seeing their favorite artist proudly donning their gear can make them eager to get their hands on it too.
So, it’s not just a fashion statement; it’s a marketing masterstroke. It’s like shouting from the rooftops, “My merch is so hot, even I can’t resist it!”
Because let’s face it—if you’re not rocking your merch, why should your fans? After all, you set the trend, and they’re simply following your lead.
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REVVING UP THAT REVENUE
Thanks to the pumped-up promotion of your merch, you can expect a significant boost in sales. It’s no surprise, especially when your merch is as awesome as it is.
And if you need further convincing, let me share a legendary example from the world of Kpop. Remember that iconic yellow donut hoodie from the 2015 music video Just Right?
It caused an absolute frenzy in the Kpop community. Everyone and their moms were clamoring to get their hands on one.
Interestingly, the hoodie wasn’t even an official merch item, but it flew off the shelves nonetheless. Even non-fans of the boy group were desperate to own it.
So, if you play our cards right, we’ll be rolling in dough before we know it.
Related Article:
Merch Stats That Show K-Pop Is Killing It!
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VIDEO CONTENT YOU CAN STRUT YOUR MERCH IN
#1. Music Videos
Naturally, this is a no-brainer. Both die-hard fanatics and casual listeners will undoubtedly tune in to this, making it the perfect opportunity to flaunt your merch.
Even better, you can seamlessly integrate links to your specific merchandise directly into the YouTube video. As your fans groove to the music video, they can easily check out the gear you’re sporting.
Here are a few artists who’ve done it:
LATTO in her Put it on da Floor M/V
TOM MACDONALD in his “Facts” M/V
#2. Instagram Live
Now, IG lives or any other social media lives you will usually be having introduces your fans to your daily, more comfy wardrobe.
Apart from live sessions focused on music promotion, you’ll want to ensure your attire isn’t overly polished.
But hey, I’m willing to bet you’re already sporting your merch on a daily basis, so it shouldn’t be too much of a challenge.
We have NICKI MINAJ Instagram Live as an example here.
#3. Tiktok Videos
I’ve scoured the depths of the internet, but it seems no musician has taken this path for their TikTok videos—yet. You might just be the first one to.
Similar to YouTube, you can link your merch to your videos on TikTok. But to really amp up engagement and, hopefully, sales, I’ve got an awesome idea!
How about launching a TikTok challenge where you urge fans to deck themselves out in your merch? And to take it up a notch, invite them to do a duet video with you.
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AND THAT’S A WRAP!
As we bid adieu to our exploration of why rocking your merch in videos is a must, one thing’s for sure: it’s more than just a fashion statement.
From sparking fan craze to amplifying marketing efforts and driving revenue growth, wearing your merch is a multifaceted strategy.
It’s versatile, it’s impactful, and it’s downright essential for building that bond with your audience.
Remember: your merch isn’t just clothing or accessories—it’s a symbol of your brand, your passion, and your journey. Embrace it, flaunt it, and watch as it becomes an integral part of your online identity.
And who knows? Maybe your merch will be the next big craze, sparking excitement and loyalty among fans worldwide.
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James Hill is a veteran of the music industry. He first worked at Warner Reprise Records then later joined Interscope/ Geffen Records where he managed producers and songwriters and got his first platinum record for Keyshia Cole’s The Way It Is. He is now helping indie artists with branding and manufacturing through his company Unified Manufacturing, a CD/DVD, custom vinyl records and merch company in LA.
