I started Merch Music to help a friend’s record company with their sales. To create a more economical format than vinyl or CDs, I came up with the idea to attach a unique code to the merchandise bands sell at shows. Each code which would allow a one-time download of whatever digital file(s) the band wanted to include: a song, video, or album including cover art and liner notes. Bands could monetize the code to add value to their merchandise.
The idea came from my observation that computer software sold in boxes began including a unique code to download the content from a website. Carrier formats were becoming a thing of the past. I recognized this trend early on, before download codes became popular and long before streaming services came into existence.
Early Merch Music flyer showing the mini album cover with download code attached to merchandise
I hired a programmer to create a working database to generate the codes, a graphic designer for the logo, marketing materials, and download tag layout, a web developer to create our website, and voice over artist for a promotional video. The first version of the download tag was a code inside a mini album cover. A later version offered a more affordable download code without the album cover, included a QR code, and could be printed at home on Avery labels, making it more accessible for customers worldwide.
I formed the LLC, trademarked the logo, filed a provisional patent for the idea, hired a lawyer to write the terms of use and privacy policy for our customers, and flew to SXSW to promote the launch of the company.
When booking a live show you’re at the mercy of the venue, so I came up with the idea to expand concerts into non-traditional venues such as parks, museums, airports, libraries, shopping malls, and after-hours events, without all the noise. Using electronic drums and guitar amp modeling software, wireless headphones became the PA system, which bands could monetize by renting to their listeners.
I applied for and was awarded a grant to develop the idea, acquire hundreds of wireless headphones, and produce a concert for the college I taught at on a city campus. The first concert happened outdoors but couldn’t be heard by passers-by. It was amazing to see the reaction when people put on the headphones and the band that looked as though they were quietly tapping on plastic and strings sounded like a full-on rock concert.
A hair stylist friend asked me to help her run a salon after acquiring a prime location by Park Street in Boston, MA. I completed some renovations, set up an accounting and payroll system, developed the branding and advertising, and helped her hire stylists. My partner made a name for herself in the industry and has now been running a successful hair salon for years.