Over the past few years, the arena of licensed action figures has seen something of an influx of rock music related figures, with varying levels of success. These have proved to be a hit with many fans of the artists that companies have depicted, and an industry has been born to cater for the growing desire for sculpted plastic versions of famous musicians. The most obvious range that people will see on sale in collectibles outlets is of course the McFarlane range of licensed Elvis Presley figures. Thus far eight have been released, each showing the late rock n roller in a particular era of his career. Some have proved to be more popular than others, such as the Comeback 68 edition and Las Vegas edition, both of which have also surfaced in both 12 inch and commemorative versions as well as the regular clamshell-packed items.
Other early successes in the McFarlane range were the Grateful Dead's Jerry Garcia, Janis Joplin, Jim Morrison of The Doors, Ozzy Osbourne and arena legends Metallica (originally available as both single figures and an elaborate box set). More sets of KISS related Anime PVC also followed, including the perennially popular KISS ALIVE stage box set, which is still a strong seller to this day.
It does show that the demand is there for music related items other than posters and T shirts, and these companies have been bringing out wave up[on wave of figures to meet with demand. McFarlane even began making '3D album covers' of legendary albums from Led Zeppelin, the sex Pistols, Jimi Hendrix and more. They have created a new market for licensed collectible PVC figures, and music fans are now eagerly awaiting the next batch. A space in the market has been filled, and with 7 inch and 18 inch versions of various figures available, along with headknockers (think nodding dogs but sculpted to look like celebrities. Joey Ramone and Iron Maiden's Eddie are the biggies here) and all manner of other licensed items, there's plenty for fans to choose from.
The Beatles have also been a hit in plastic form, with 'Yellow Submarine' and 'Saturday cartoon' editions of the fab four being released. These items fill a need for items fans can display and pose. They give the fans the opportunity to own something physical of their idols without having to pay over the odds for the opportunity. Even Bon Jovi have got in on the act recently, with figures of Jon Bon Jovi himself and Richie Sambora finding their way onto the shelves. As long as fans want them, these collectibles will continue to be made.
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