When we think of successful bands like Metallica or Korn, we often think of the impact their music has made on the world. But some bands have made millions not just by making music but by turning their bands into brands.
There are famous musicians who have created a strong and recognizable image that extends their influence beyond their music and the demographic they’re targeting. For example, even Generation Z know who Iron Maiden is.
With that being said, we’ve found several bands that were able to enhance their brand beyond the stage. Keep reading to find out how these famous bands made a killing with clever merchandise.
Iron Maiden
Iron Maiden is an English metal band that was formed in England in 1975. The band has a famous mascot named Eddie the Head, who first appeared on their 1980s single ‘Running Free.’ Eddie quickly became a popular figure for the band, and they started placing large figures of him on stage.
The band also placed Eddie on all of their album covers and merchandise, which includes shirts, flags, posters, and action figures. He quickly became a recognizable character. Then, in March 2013, Iron Maiden announced that they’d be making their own ale called Trooper, which is the title of their 1983 single of the same name.
To date, Trooper Ale has sold over 30 million pints. Iron Maiden also makes a range of other branded products, such as guitar picks, badges, and canvas prints. Iron Maiden is a massive beast of a band that has been going for over 40 years in the music industry and has sold millions of merchandise worldwide.
Kiss
Kiss is another well-known band that was formed in the 70s by band members Peter Criss, Paul Stanely, Ace Frehley, and Gene Simmons. The band had a unique fashion look that shocked many parents around America at the time. They wore face paint and leather outfits adorned with studs and spikes.
The band quickly became popular with their most famous song titles, ‘Love Gunn’ and ‘Rock and Roll All Night.’ Kiss started to use unique marketing techniques that made the band instantly recognizable. Since 1977, KISS comic books have been an integral part of their merchandising.
Additionally, the band went on to make action figures, and they now have a fully developed website where you can buy hoodies, t-shirts, vinyls, and a deck of cards. There was even a movie featuring the band called Detroit Rock City, which was named after their 1976 single off their ‘Destroyer’ album.
AC/DC
AC/DC is a rock band that was formed in 1973, and to everyone’s surprise, they’re not an English band – they come from Australia. The band was founded by the famous guitarist Angus Young and the late Malcolm Young.
The band came up with the name after the Young brothers’ sister, Margret, saw the initials on a sewing machine. Their logo and catchy name are now recognized worldwide, and they now sell branded merchandise such as socks, t-shirts, and even a novelty Monopoly game.
Fans can find AC/DC products on the band’s website. One of their most popular branded products at the moment is their limited edition lightbox.
Korn
Korn is a nu-metal band that was formed in Bakersfield, California, in 1993. They are famous for basically creating the nu-metal genre and inspired bands like Slipknot and Coal Chamber. Like most bands, Korn has some iconic album covers that are used on the front of t-shirts and posters.
Recently, the frontman of the band, Jonathan Davis, released his own premium pet brand called Freak on a Leash, which is named after a single on their ‘Follow the Leader’ album. The products are designed exclusively by Jonathan. Fans can buy leashes, collars, and plushies for their dogs.
The band also made a hot sauce called Here to Slay. You can visit the Korn official website, where you can buy branded accessories like scrunchies, cups, caps, duffel bags, and more. The band has made millions of dollars selling merchandise to fans from all over the world.
Nirvana
Nirvana, fronted by the legendary Kurt Cobain, has had a significant impact not just through their music but also through their branding. Their iconic smiley face logo, often associated with grunge culture, has been a staple on t-shirts, posters, and other merchandise for decades. The band’s influence has permeated fashion, with numerous clothing lines inspired by Cobain’s unique style.
Despite the band’s relatively short active period, their merchandise continues to sell strongly, demonstrating the lasting power of their brand. Fans of Nirvana can find a variety of products, from hoodies and hats to coffee mugs and phone cases, all bearing the distinctive imagery that defines the band’s aesthetic.
The Beatles
The Beatles, often hailed as one of the most influential bands of all time, have not only left an indelible mark on music history but have also become a powerful brand. Formed in Liverpool in 1960, the Fab Four—John Lennon, Paul McCartney, George Harrison, and Ringo Starr—revolutionized the music industry with their innovative sounds and charismatic personas.
Their branding success extends far beyond their timeless music. The Beatles’ iconic logo, featuring the dropped “T,” is instantly recognizable and has been emblazoned on countless merchandise items, from t-shirts and mugs to posters and bags. The band’s imagery and album covers, such as the famous Abbey Road crossing, have also been widely used in various forms of memorabilia.
The Beatles further expanded their brand through the creation of Apple Corps Ltd., a multimedia corporation that manages their intellectual property. Apple Corps has been instrumental in licensing Beatles’ products, ensuring that the band’s brand remains relevant and lucrative. In addition to traditional merchandise, The Beatles have also ventured into unique products such as LEGO sets, which allow fans to build models of iconic scenes from the band’s history.
Their influence also extends into the digital realm. The Beatles: Rock Band video game, released in 2009, allowed fans to virtually experience playing as members of the band, further cementing their legacy in popular culture. The game was a commercial success and introduced their music to a new generation of fans.
The Beatles’ brand continues to thrive through various partnerships and licensing deals, ensuring that their legacy endures. Their music, image, and cultural impact have made The Beatles a timeless brand that continues to generate significant revenue long after the band ceased performing together.
Final Thoughts
As you can see, you don’t simply have to tour and sell albums to make money. If you’re a successful band, you could slap your logo on t-shirts, mugs, and accessories. There are plenty of bands who’ve created makeup products, too, like Ozzy Osbourne and Twisted Sister.
Bands create websites to sell their official products online. You could even get signed products like posters and t-shirts. With that being said, most bands are now selling products to make more profit as they create new albums for fans to listen to.