We started selling merchandise because people.... the fans, were asking us if we had or planned to sell shirts and other things.

Just like the big acts of today.... the fans we had were a loyal bunch and followed us from town to town.

Yes, even the big boys and girls in the business of music know that the music is a "loss leader" to sell tickets to concerts and t-shirts, posters, 8x10 glossies, and more to the fans at the shows. For them , the money isn't really in the music, it's in the merch and endorsements.

Sad as that may seem and I'm sure some folks will call that a "sell out" to the money..... but hey, that's the reality of the business world.

Make hay while the sun shines. Many of the artists will not have long and prosperous careers. Ever watch the show about the rock stars of yesterday....I think it was called "What are they doing now?" Once the ride is over, it's very likely over for good.

You can find my music at:
www.herbhartley.com
Add nothing that adds nothing to the music.
You can make excuses or you can make progress but not both.

The magic you are looking for is in the work you are avoiding.