In each issue, we hope to spotlight a different behind-the-scenes job, to give our readers an idea of what all goes into a band's performance both in the studio and on the stage.
Behind The Scenes: The Merchandise Table
by Dawn St John
Somewhere in the ballpark of three and a half years ago, Oliver and I worked at our first show, volunteering for Carbon Leaf (who are featured in our cover story, this issue). Surprisingly, working a show is a lot of fun. You're doing something to support a band you really like, and you're getting to meet a lot of interesting people - sometimes including the band themselves. Carbon Leaf do meet and greets at the merch table after every show. Besides the band, though, you also get to meet their fans, and this too can be an entertaining experience. You'll talk to die-hard fans who have traveled all over to see them play (and no matter how obscure a band might be, there will be people like this!), and you'll meet people who'd never even heard of them before that night, but now want to buy CDs and t-shirts. It's a really good feeling to see the fanbase growing right before your very eyes.
That's not to say there isn't work involved: there certainly is. Most artists will have you arrive an hour or two before showtime (some bands guest-list their volunteers, but I can't say for certain if this is true for everyone) to help set up the merch table. From that point forward, you are responsible for the merchandise and for the money. Most bands will have the volunteer situated at the table through the entire event, for security's sake. In the first shows we worked, Oliver and I were able to be up front by the stage during the show, as long as we could still see the table, but security has gotten more strict at many venues. Most places/artists will require that the table be manned at all times. You won't be very busy during the show, of course - most folks will be paying attention to the music rather than buying the merchandise. However, before and after the performance, there will be swarms of people waiting to buy the CDs, t-shirts, bumper stickers, and anything else they can! You'll be expected to keep track of the inventory, along with making credit card transactions (where applicable) and counting cash. It's high-paced, but so much fun.
You're also likely to be asked for your own recommendations. If you're behind the table, people assume you know something about the band. Sometimes they even think you're part of the band! Frequently, though, you'll be asked, "Which CD is the best one?" or other similar questions. Most artists want their most recent effort pushed the hardest, but your opinions are also valued. If there's a really great song you feel everyone should hear, now's your chance to sell it to the public. You know this band, you love this band, and in that you have common ground with all these other people. It's a heady feeling of community.
Volunteering for a show, in my opinion, is a great way to show your support for an artist. Check out the website for your favorite band, see if they have a street team, and find out what you can do to help them out the next time they're playing in your neighborhood. It's a great time, and the band will be very grateful for your help.