Is Merch Killing Music? The STRUGGLE for Metal Bands

Is the rise of merch as a lifeline for survival forcing metal bands to trade their creativity for profit?

In this video, the guys discuss the whirlwind of the modern music industry. With so many amazing bands constantly on tour and releasing new music. It’s exciting, but let’s be honest - it’s tough to keep up. Between buying tickets, grabbing a bit of merch, and covering travel and drinks, a single gig can easily cost upwards of £200. For most of us, that’s a hefty price tag, and it forces tough decisions. We can’t do it all, no matter how much we want to support every great band out there.

Merchandise has become a lifeline for bands trying to make a living. Touring isn’t just about playing music anymore - it’s about running a business. In a previous conversation with Loz Taylor from While She Sleeps, we touched upon how bands today are like travelling t-shirt salespeople. They’re constantly creating exclusive tour designs and online-only merch to keep fans engaged. It’s a balancing act between artistry and the realities of commerce, and it’s become a massive part of staying afloat.

Take metal bands like Arch Enemy. They just finished a UK tour with Soilwork and In Flames and already announced another round for next year. Fans love it, but the logistics and financial pressure behind these tours are immense. For many artists, playing guitar or creating music is now only a fraction of the job. The rest is about running a merch store, hiring roadies, managing e-commerce, and navigating the grind of the modern music industry.

It’s a reminder that the world of music has shifted - it’s not just about the stage anymore; it’s also about surviving off it.

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