4. Merchandise
While generating money is the most obvious benefit of band merchandise, the valuable impressions made from exposure to potential fans is just as important. When your fans wear your Merch there is no limit to how many people are going to see it and/or how many people are going to ask about it. Selling your band merchandise can be done at live shows or online via your web site. Email fan club members and use social networking when new products become available to create hype. Consider offering special packages, bundling your CDs or downloads with t shirts, buttons and/or stickers to drive sales and spread the word about your music. Bring your merchandise to every show. Display your merch on a stand and make sure to stick around after your set (for as long as possible) so that you don't miss an opportunity to sell. Most importantly at live shows the middle man is left out meaning all profits are returned to the band.
5. Sustainability
Bands and artists should always try and remain self-sufficient and look after their own affairs as much as possible. Sustainability, the most demanding aspect of longevity, is down to a band’s continued belief in why they formed in the first place - the scene that inspired them and in turn the music that inspires the fan base. A fan base will care for a band and keep them alive, so bands and artists must care for them back with a true to themselves attitude and great music. Nurturing this fan base and realising its importance is crucial.
Surface Festival takes bands and artists at grass roots level and brings them through a journey culminating in an industry showcase. The quality of the sponsors, judges and management lends colossal credibility to this event and should be a breath of fresh air to all bands and artists in the UK and Europe. We are constantly looking at the future of the music industry and analysing the processes and methods that bands and artists will require in tomorrow’s digital world. Alex Baker from the Kerrang Radio unsigned show explains, "the Surface Festival gives bands a genuine opportunity to get their music in front of people in the industry that can help further their careers. The best bands WILL inevitably rise to the top, the National this year was very hard to judge, amazing stage shows, amazing songs, amazing bands – congratulations to Great Imitation who blew everyone’s minds. The prizes offered for the winning band and runners up are just fantastic and the experience all the bands gain from playing larger venues is priceless."