The SoundCloud Store has been created by the music streaming service as a new artist-led initiative that will help them to create their own merch for fans to pick up. The brand's first edition of the store boasts designs from artists including Wiz Khalifa, wolfacejoeyy, Denzel Curry, Armani White and Bktherula. The streaming service said that it creates mock-ups of products upon receiving a design, will then create and sell the final result with 100% of the profits from sales going to artists without taking any fees.
The SoundCloud Store comes as one of a growing number of company-backed merch initiatives coming to the market to provide fans with an easier, direct way to pick up custom designs that will benefit their favorite artists.
Artist-Led Music Streaming Stores
The SoundCloud Store Lets Artists Create Their Own Merch
Trend Themes
1. Artist-led E-commerce - This trend showcases artists taking control of their merchandise sales, enabling direct fan-to-artist transactions.
2. Custom Merchandising Platforms - Dedicated platforms allow artists to easily create and sell personalized merchandise, enhancing fan engagement.
3. Profit-driven Artist Initiatives - Artists receive the full revenue from merchandise sales, creating lucrative revenue streams and reducing dependency on traditional label deals.
Industry Implications
1. Music Streaming - Streaming services evolve beyond music distribution, providing comprehensive support tools for artists, including merchandise sales.
2. E-commerce - Online retail expands to support niche markets, such as artist-led stores, offering new business opportunities for customized products.
3. Merchandise Production - The partnership between artists and production platforms highlights a shift towards more personalized and small-batch production methods.