Product Overview
An original late-1980s promotional t-shirt for the band Lock Up, featuring a stark, high-contrast graphic and a bold typographic reverse. Lock Up is a critical chapter in alternative music history, serving as the primary project for guitarist Tom Morello immediately prior to the formation of Rage Against the Machine. Because of the band's short-lived tenure and the localized nature of their late-80s touring, original merchandise is exceptionally scarce. This piece represents a foundational moment in Morello's career, making it a priority for collectors focused on the genealogy of the 90s alternative revolution.
Details & History
The garment is constructed on a period-correct, USA-made Tedman Super Hi-Cru blank, a manufacturer synonymous with mid-to-late 80s rock merchandising. The design features the band’s signature aggressive visual style across both faces, rendered in heavy plastisol ink. This shirt marks the specific era when Morello began developing the innovative funk-metal guitar techniques that would later define the RATM sound. The presence of single-stitched sleeves and a double-stitched hem is definitive of this specific transition in garment manufacturing, confirming its status as a genuine first-print artifact from the band’s initial run.
Condition & Measurements
The shirt is in good vintage condition, possessing an authentic, naturally aged patina. The black cotton has developed a visible fade, particularly concentrated across the shoulders and upper body, while the fabric retains a soft, "broken-in" texture. The graphics exhibit character-rich cracking consistent with thirty-five years of age, yet remain fully legible with strong visual impact. There are no holes or structural damage observed, and the original Tedman tag remains fully intact. The Large sizing provides the characteristic boxy silhouette favored by collectors of late-80s street and band wear.
Tag Size: Large
Pit to Pit: 21.5 inches
Length: 28.5 inches
Product Overview
An original late-1980s promotional t-shirt for the band Lock Up, featuring a stark, high-contrast graphic and a bold typographic reverse. Lock Up is a critical chapter in alternative music history, serving as the primary project for guitarist Tom Morello immediately prior to the formation of Rage Against the Machine. Because of the band's short-lived tenure and the localized nature of their late-80s touring, original merchandise is exceptionally scarce. This piece represents a foundational moment in Morello's career, making it a priority for collectors focused on the genealogy of the 90s alternative revolution.
Details & History
The garment is constructed on a period-correct, USA-made Tedman Super Hi-Cru blank, a manufacturer synonymous with mid-to-late 80s rock merchandising. The design features the band’s signature aggressive visual style across both faces, rendered in heavy plastisol ink. This shirt marks the specific era when Morello began developing the innovative funk-metal guitar techniques that would later define the RATM sound. The presence of single-stitched sleeves and a double-stitched hem is definitive of this specific transition in garment manufacturing, confirming its status as a genuine first-print artifact from the band’s initial run.
Condition & Measurements
The shirt is in good vintage condition, possessing an authentic, naturally aged patina. The black cotton has developed a visible fade, particularly concentrated across the shoulders and upper body, while the fabric retains a soft, "broken-in" texture. The graphics exhibit character-rich cracking consistent with thirty-five years of age, yet remain fully legible with strong visual impact. There are no holes or structural damage observed, and the original Tedman tag remains fully intact. The Large sizing provides the characteristic boxy silhouette favored by collectors of late-80s street and band wear.
Tag Size: Large
Pit to Pit: 21.5 inches
Length: 28.5 inches
