ATTENTION ALL MUSIC-LOVERS!
Triple j have today announced that they're bringing forward AusMusic T-Shirt Day for a special edition happening this Friday 17th April to help some of the artists doing it extra tough right now amidst the COVID-19 pandemic.
In an effort to raise awareness for all of the artists currently affected by indefinite loss of livelihood and income due to cancelled tours, festivals and more, triple j's AusMusic T-Shirt day isn't just a chance to buy and/or bust out your best Aussie band merch - stations all over the ABC will also be dedicating their airwaves to Australian music for the entire day come April 17th, including triple j, Double J, triple j Unearthed, ABC Radio and more. With merch currently one of the biggest ways our favourite local artists can stay afloat during these uncertain times, what better excuse to pick up another band shirt to add to your already overflowing collection? Or if you can't spare the cash just now to spring for a new shirt, bust out one of your old faithfuls to show your support.
HOW TO GET INVOLVED
If you can afford it, go and buy a new shirt (or a tote bag, or socks, or whatever merch takes your fancy) from an Australian band or artist. There are so many incredible designs out there, and the money you spend on a tidy new t-shirt will go a long way to helping sustain an artist you love.
If you need suggestions, here are two places you can go:
Support Act has collated an impressive list of retailers for Australian artists of all persuasions. Check it out here and see what takes your fancy.
Triple j Unearthed have a tidy guide showing off some of the finest merch that emerging Australian bands have available. Go and have a look!
Merch sales are one of the best ways we can support our crippled music industry. But it's not the only way.
If you don't need an addition to your wardrobe, but want to lend a hand anyway, consider a donation to Support Act, the charity that looks after those in the music industry who've fallen on tough times.
We understand that you might be doing it tough right now. If you aren't able to buy a new shirt or make a donation, we want you to join us anyway! Grab an old shirt from an Australian artist and wear it with pride.
And don't forget on the day to post a pic of you rocking some social distancing and an Aussie band shirt using the hashtag #AusmusicTshirtDay
“This year we are bringing you an extra Ausmusic T-shirt Day because now is the time to wrap our arms around the Australian music industry and let them know we’re here for them during a time when they can’t make a living from playing live,” - triple j
So don't say you weren't warned! With some extra time up your sleeves, go spring clean your band shirt drawer (or plural drawers if you're anything like me), or go snap up some snazzy new merch in time for April 17th!
BY TIANA SPETER