More Profitable Music Sales Tips

We already covered CD and merchandise sales ideas, some additional tips to boost sales, as well as a few great comments from blog readers. On top of that, Hugh DeNeal, co-founder of CheapShirtsForBands.com, offers these helpful pointers for selling more merchandise.

Give Away Free Stuff with Each Purchase. "You can get stickers, buttons, matchbooks, etc., for less than 50 cents each. Giving it away with a $10 or $15 sale of a shirt or CD may just be what pushes the customer into buying. Plus, it's one extra piece of promotion for you," DeNeal explains.

Have More Than One T-shirt Design. "Sometimes, if you have one or two simple designs, plus an elaborate multi-colored design at the same price, it will make the fancy shirt appear to be worth more. People like to think they are getting a deal, even if you paid almost the same wholesale price for the shirt. However, other people will prefer the simpler designs. Try to satisfy both needs."

Keep It Simple. "Avoid too much variety in shirt and ink colors. It's best to have a design on a light shirt and a dark shirt. Do your best to keep your sizes well stocked."

Display Your Merchandise Attractively. "You don't need to display every shirt size you have. Put one of each shirt design on your table along with your CDs and mailing list sign-up form. Print a price sheet with your prices and shirt sizes available. Also, if you have stickers or handbills listing your upcoming shows, invite people to take them."

Seek Outside Help. "It is best to have someone selling your merchandise who is not in your band. People like to talk to the performers and often you will get caught up in conversation while fans are waiting to buy your stuff."

Don't Forget the Low End. "Invest in some less expensive can huggers, embroidered patches, magnets, etc. Some people will come to your shows with just enough money to pay the cover and have a few drinks. They might support your band with only a couple of spare bucks. Two-dollar can huggers and one-dollar refrigerator magnets are a good option for the broke but supportive audience member."

Thanks for the excellent tips, Hugh!