By Monk
Ron Boutwell, generally regarded as the godfather of rock merchandise as we know it today, has died at the age of 82.
Starting out as radio DJ in the early 1960s, Boutwell is credited as transforming the rock ‘n’ roll merchandising industry in the 1970s, by pioneering the selling of branded T-shirts at concerts. He went on to manage merchandise sales for artists such as KISS, The Police, Metallica, Slayer, Bobby Sherman, Elton John, Queen, Yngwie Malmsteen, Exodus, Anthrax, The Go-Go’s, Talking Heads, The Osmond Brothers, Steve Earle, The Clash, Barry Manilow, Barry White, U2, The English Beat and numerous other acts. Posters stating “produced by Boutwell, Inc.” on the bottom right corner have hung proudly in the bedrooms of millions of rock fans over the past five decades, and pin badges he created continue to adorn the jackets and vests of generations of music fans.
He died peacefully at his home in Oregon, with his wife of 53 years, Kate, by his side. In a statement issued by his family he was described as a surrogate father to many, a relentless joker, a great storyteller, an incorrigible giver of inappropriate advice, and an unforgettable character to all who met him.
- Photo courtesy of Adrenaline PR.