Musicians have a had enough time even surviving now, let alone thriving. Merch is one of the only things that allows touring to be sustainable for performers.
CAN'T LET THAT HAPPEN! LET'S TAKE A CUT!
uh, no - this isn't right. We can't have nice things if we don't allow said things to make a living. Yes, Olivia Rodrigo is doing fine but Electric Body Cramp, Fleabag Diaries and Random Incredible Jazz Saxophonist need the T-shirt money to eat!