The History and Collectibility of Vintage Krokus Band T-Shirts

The History of Krokus T-Shirts

Heavy metal band Krokus has been making music since the 1970s, and along with their hard rocking tunes came iconic merchandise like Krokus t-shirts. The Swiss rockers brought a unique blend of boogie rock and heavy metal to the scene, inspiring generations of fans to proudly display the Krokus logo.

Krokus was formed in Solothurn, Switzerland in 1975. The original lineup consisted of Chris von Rohr on vocals and percussion, Tommy Kiefer on guitar, bassist Jürg Naegeli, and drummer Freddy Steady. Influenced by bands like AC/DC, Led Zeppelin, and the Rolling Stones, Krokus played a brand of blues-infused hard rock that stood out in the Swiss music scene of the day.

Their first two albums Krokus (1976) and To You All (1977) saw some success locally, but it wasn't until the arrival of vocalist Marc Storace in 1979 that the band achieved more widespread popularity. Storace brought a grittier, higher energy vocal style to the group along with a knack for catchy hooks and melodies.

Krokus T-Shirt Designs Over the Years

With this new lineup firmly in place, Krokus began churning out classic albums like Metal Rendez-Vous (1980) and Hardware (1981). These records spawned hit songs like "Heatstrokes" and the band's cover of "Ballroom Blitz" along with massive tours. This success translated into Krokus merchandise becoming more sought after by fans.

Early Krokus t-shirt designs were simple yet impactful. Usually focused around the band's stylized logo, they let the strong branding do the talking. These vintage tees featured the band name in the classic swooping font, sometimes accompanied by imagery like wings or lightning bolts. As Krokus toured larger venues and festivals, the shirts served as a badge of honor for dedicated fans.

Throughout the '80s during the band's most popular period, the Krokus t-shirts evolved with more colorful and intricate designs. The album covers of records like The Blitz (1984) and Change of Address (1986) featured detailed fantasy illustrations that were adapted for merchandise. Shirts from this era were often black with the album artwork emblazoned prominently on the front.

Krokus T-Shirts Become Collectors Items

While Krokus had their last major chart success in the 1980s, the band never fully went away. They continued to tour and release albums periodically over the following decades. However, those vintage '70s and '80s Krokus shirts became coveted items for collectors of rock and heavy metal memorabilia.

Because tees with the classic logos and album cover art were only printed in limited runs decades ago, they can be hard to find today. When authentic shirts do surface at thrift stores or online auction sites, they routinely sell for $50-100 depending on rarity and condition.

For collectors, finding one of those old tour or album t-shirts allows them to own a piece of heavy metal history. They can get an original shirt featuring iconic artwork that is no longer available. For some, gathering different designs over time becomes an ongoing quest.

Krokus T-Shirts Today

While the vintage stuff goes for premium prices, new Krokus shirts are still available for fans of the band. Krokus continues to tour, including some shows focused on playing their classic '70s and '80s albums in their entirety.

Current Krokus shirts feature updated versions of the classic logo designs along with imagery related to newer albums. However, the iconic winged logo and gothic lettering still appear frequently. This allows old and new fans alike to rock the Krokus gear today.

The t-shirt has always been a way for music fans to show their dedication. Krokus helped cement that connection back in their '70s and '80s heyday. Thanks to their continued presence and the passion of collectors, the iconic Krokus tee remains an important symbol of heavy metal history.

FAQs

What were some of the early Krokus t-shirt designs?

Early Krokus shirts from the 1970s and early 1980s tended to feature simple designs focused on the band's logo. This often included the winged logo or the Krokus name in a bold, gothic font. They let the strong branding speak for itself.

When did the shirts start featuring more intricate artwork?

In the mid-1980s during Krokus' most popular period, the t-shirt designs started incorporating the fantasy artwork from albums like The Blitz and Change of Address. More detailed illustrations were printed in bright colors.

Why are vintage Krokus tees collected today?

Because the original shirts were only printed in small batches decades ago, finding one in good condition today is difficult. Collectors see them as owning a piece of rock history. The iconic designs haven't been reprinted, adding to the appeal.

What is one of the most popular eras for collectors?

Shirts from Krokus' prolific period in the early 1980s when they were touring huge venues and releasing hit albums are especially sought after. T-shirts featuring artwork from albums like Hardware and Metal Rendez-Vous do very well.

Where can you buy Krokus shirts new today?

New Krokus shirts with modern versions of classic designs are available at the band's shows and online at their merchandise shop. Fans can still get shirts featuring the iconic Krokus logo.