When you see bands play live or on TV, one thing you don’t see is the struggle. It looks like being in a band is a rich kids’ game. Most bands — even punk ones — seem to have one thing in common — they’re stacked with good equipment, quality merch, and good on-stage wardrobes. 

That’s because they did one of the following:

• Worked together to save a bunch of money.

• Relied on someone in the band who has enough money and resources to bankroll the project.

• Found someone outside of the band willing to be a benefactor.

• Robbed a bank.