Humble Beginnings
In East Tennessee
Bandit Lites started with just a few friends in Kingsport, Tennessee, who shared a passion for music and live shows. In those early days, founder Michael Strickland famously “borrowed” the lights from his high school theater to illuminate local rock concerts. This idea sparked what would become the foundation of a world-class lighting company. Learn the history of how a company went from being a grassroots effort to growing into the oldest and most respected name in the industry, and how those humble beginnings remain at the heart of who we are today.
Humble Beginnings
In East Tennessee
Bandit Lites started with just a few friends in Kingsport, Tennessee, who shared a passion for music and live shows. In those early days, founder Michael Strickland famously “borrowed” the lights from his high school theater to illuminate local rock concerts. This idea sparked what would become the foundation of a world-class lighting company. Learn the history of how a company went from being a grassroots effort to growing into the oldest and most respected name in the industry, and how those humble beginnings remain at the heart of who we are today.
Humble Beginnings
In East Tennessee
Bandit Lites started with just a few friends in Kingsport, Tennessee, who shared a passion for music and live shows. In those early days, founder Michael Strickland famously “borrowed” the lights from his high school theater to illuminate local rock concerts. This idea sparked what would become the foundation of a world-class lighting company. Learn the history of how a company went from being a grassroots effort to growing into the oldest and most respected name in the industry, and how those humble beginnings remain at the heart of who we are today.
Humble Beginnings
In East Tennessee
Bandit Lites started with just a few friends in Kingsport, Tennessee, who shared a passion for music and live shows. In those early days, founder Michael Strickland famously “borrowed” the lights from his high school theater to illuminate local rock concerts. This idea sparked what would become the foundation of a world-class lighting company. Learn the history of how a company went from being a grassroots effort to growing into the oldest and most respected name in the industry, and how those humble beginnings remain at the heart of who we are today.
A Storied History In Lighting
1968- The Beginning with "Borrowed Lights"
At just 12 years old, Michael T. Strickland started an innovative business while attending junior high in Kingsport, Tennessee. Driven by his passion for music and performance, he began borrowing lights from the Dobyns-Bennett theatre to illuminate local shows. That inventive workaround quickly became a business, and the name “Bandit Lites” was born. Strickland later joked, “we borrowed everything we could get our hands on.” Kingsport had just completed a new modernized gymnasium, which was spacious enough to host national touring acts. After its construction, Kingsport became a surprising regular stop for high-profile tours. Some of the first bands Strickland lit included The Beach Boys, The Grass Roots, and Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons. These early experiences sparked the creation of what would become Bandit Lites.
1973 – The Move to Knoxville
In 1973, Michael T. Strickland enrolled at the University of Tennessee in Knoxville, bringing Bandit Lites with him. What had started as a teenager’s passion project in Kingsport now traveled with him to college. Even from a dorm room, Strickland continued to grow the business. By his senior year, Bandit Lites was grossing $2 million annually. Since its foundation, Bandit Lites gradually upgraded its Knoxville headquarters, continuing to expand and modernize the facility. Eventually, the company moved into its current headquarters at 2233 Sycamore Drive.
1979 – Bandit Destroyed in a Fire
In 1979, tragedy struck when Bandit Lites was hit by a devastating fire, destroying the Knoxville facility entirely. Years of equipment, inventory, and hard work went up in flames. The destruction threatened to halt the company’s rapid growth. Rather than letting disaster define them, Michael T. Strickland and the Bandit team used the setback to rebuild. The tragedy was turned into an opportunity to reimagine operations and improve systems. This resilience preserved the company and cemented Bandit’s reputation as a reliable, determined partner in live production.
1982 – Bandit Nashville Opens
Bandit Lites expanded its reach by opening a Nashville office, strategically placing itself in the heart of the music industry. At the time, few major production firms had a presence in the city. Because of this, Bandit became one of the first major entertainment lighting companies to set up shop in Nashville. That decision would prove visionary. Over the years, Nashville blossomed into the epicenter of live music and touring production. It became home to countless artists, tours, and television events. Bandit’s early move positioned the company at the forefront of this growth. This allowed the company to better serve artists, tours, and corporate clients across the Southeast.
1982- Establish Thomas Engineering US
With the establishment of Thomas Engineering in Knoxville, Bandit Lites took a major step forward in production infrastructure. The addition of engineered support systems and safety-focused design strengthened the company’s ability to deliver reliable, large-scale lighting solutions.
1983 – First Ever Thomas Top Built in Knoxville
Bandit Lites took a major step forward with the construction of a purpose-built facility at 1600 JP Hennessy Drive. At the time, this was a huge move for the company: a state-of-the-art Nashville location designed to house its growing inventory, production staff, and administrative operations under one roof. Little did the team know, the company’s continued success would soon outgrow even this impressive space. Within a few short years, Bandit would expand into a facility more than ten times larger to meet the demands of its rapidly growing global client base. Since then, the 1600 JP Hennessy location has been transformed into Venue1. The warehouse portion was repurposed into a complimentary rehearsal space for all Bandit clients. It was a full-circle transformation that continues to serve the artists and productions that helped shape Bandit’s legacy.
1987 - Purchase Lights Up
In 2004, Bandit Lites took another bold step in its continued growth by purchasing a 200,000-square-foot facility in Nashville, Tennessee. This expansion marked a defining moment in the company’s evolution, solidifying its long-term presence in the city that had become the heartbeat of live music and touring production. The new facility provided vast warehouse space, advanced prep areas, and dedicated offices for touring support. It allowed Bandit to better serve artists, television productions, and special events on a global scale. International Boulevard serves as the central hub for the entire Production Division of Bandit Lites.
1988 - Establish Tomcat US
Seeing the need for accessible, high-quality production gear, Bandit Lites launches Tomcat US. The new division offered complete staging, lighting, and support systems, backed by clear price sheets and detailed specs, giving crews the tools they needed to build bigger, safer, and more spectacular shows.
1991 - Become Pan Command East Coast
Bandit Lites expands its operations by becoming Pan Command East Coast, strengthening its presence in the region and providing advanced lighting and production solutions to a growing network of venues and touring acts all within an 18 hour vicinity.
1991 - Acquire Avolites US
Bandit Lites acquires Avolites US, expanding its capabilities in lighting control and technology. This move strengthened the company’s access to advanced console systems and reinforced its position at the forefront of concert lighting innovation.
1993 - Acquire Meteorlites US
In 1993, Bandit Lites strengthened its domestic capabilities by acquiring MeteorLites US, a respected lighting company known for its innovative solutions and reliable service. This acquisition allowed Bandit to integrate MeteorLites’ expertise, expanding our equipment inventory and technical know-how to better serve touring artists and live events across the United States. By bringing MeteorLites into the Bandit family, we set the stage for even larger productions and established a foundation for the company’s continued growth and industry leadership.
1993 - Win First Lighting Company of the Year Award
By 1993, Bandit Lites had established itself as a leader in the entertainment lighting industry. The company had become known by many for its dedication to professionalism, innovation, and unwavering commitment to quality. That year, Bandit Lites earned its first “Lighting Company of the Year” award. It was a prestigious honor recognizing Bandit’s excellence in touring, design, and technical execution. The award was the first of many honors to come, solidifying Bandit’s place among the most respected production firms in the world.
1996 – Construction Starts at 1600 JP Hennessy
Bandit Lites took a major step forward with the construction of a purpose-built facility at 1600 JP Hennessy Drive. At the time, this was a huge move for the company: a state-of-the-art Nashville location designed to house its growing inventory, production staff, and administrative operations under one roof. Little did the team know, the company’s continued success would soon outgrow even this impressive space. Within a few short years, Bandit would expand into a facility more than ten times larger to meet the demands of its rapidly growing global client base. Since then, the 1600 JP Hennessy location has been transformed into Venue1. The warehouse portion was repurposed into a complimentary rehearsal space for all Bandit clients. It was a full-circle transformation that continues to serve the artists and productions that helped shape Bandit’s legacy.
1997 - Acquire Meteorlites UK
In 1997, Bandit Lites expanded its international presence by acquiring MeteorLites UK, a well-established lighting company in England. After the acquisition, and later that same year, officially launched Bandit Lites UK. This strategic move allowed us to support more European tours and events, bringing Bandit’s signature precision, innovation, and reliability to a wider audience. Establishing a branch in the UK not only strengthened our global reach but also demonstrated our commitment to building long-term relationships with artists and clients across the world.
1997 - Establish Bandit Lites UK
Bandit Lites expands its global footprint with the establishment of Bandit Lites UK in England. This strategic move allowed the company to better support the growing number of tours traveling throughout Europe by providing local access to equipment, crew, and technical expertise. With a dedicated presence overseas, Bandit was able to streamline logistics, reduce transport challenges, and deliver the same high standard of production services across international markets.
1998 - Establish Bandit Lites Hong Kong
Bandit Lites establishes a Hong Kong facility, enabling more affordable production of lighting gear. Beyond cost efficiency, the location became a hub for innovation, where the team designed environmentally friendly lights exclusively for Bandit’s own shows. It marked an important chapter in the company’s growth and commitment to sustainability.
1999 - Establish Bandit Lites San Francisco
Bandit Lites expands to the West Coast with the establishment of a San Francisco office. This location allowed the company to better serve clients and productions in the region, and it continues to operate today as the base for one of our dedicated client representatives, maintaining strong relationships with West Coast partners.
2004 - Establish Vol Air
Bandit Lites broadens its operational capabilities with the establishment of Vol Air, LLC. Founded by Michael T. Strickland as part of Bandit’s family of companies, Vol Air provided aviation support that helped move people and gear more efficiently for touring shows and production logistics. This addition reflected Bandit’s commitment to comprehensive service in the live‑event business and underscored the company’s innovative approach to solving complex travel and transport challenges.
2004 – Bandit Purchases 200,000 Square Foot Building in Nashville
In 2004, Bandit Lites took another bold step in its continued growth by purchasing a 200,000-square-foot facility in Nashville, Tennessee. This expansion marked a defining moment in the company’s evolution, solidifying its long-term presence in the city that had become the heartbeat of live music and touring production. The new facility provided vast warehouse space, advanced prep areas, and dedicated offices for touring support. It allowed Bandit to better serve artists, television productions, and special events on a global scale. International Boulevard serves as the central hub for the entire Production Division of Bandit Lites.
2004 - Establish Best Techs
Bandit Lites establishes Best Techs, a separate company created to provide highly trained, part-time lighting technicians for tours, concerts, and special events. Designed to support the growing demand for skilled labor, Best Techs offered a structured system that handled payroll, taxes, and workers’ compensation, allowing technicians to focus on their craft. The program not only ensured consistent crew quality across productions but also served as a training ground for up-and-coming talent, with many technicians advancing into full-time roles within Bandit Lites.
2007 - Partner with Skycam
Bandit Lites establishes Best Techs, a separate company created to provide highly trained, part-time lighting technicians for tours, concerts, and special events. Designed to support the growing demand for skilled labor, Best Techs offered a structured system that handled payroll, taxes, and workers’ compensation, allowing technicians to focus on their craft. The program not only ensured consistent crew quality across productions but also served as a training ground for up-and-coming talent, with many technicians advancing into full-time roles within Bandit Lites.
2009 - Establish GRNLite
Bandit Lites launched GRNLite, the world’s first fully LED lighting solution at the time. Designed to be both powerful and environmentally friendly, GRNLite set a new standard for energy-efficient, sustainable lighting in live events and touring.
2011 - Establish Gear Park
From our Nashville office, Bandit Lites introduced Gear Park, a secure, convenient locker system for artists and clients on tour. Designed to make storing and accessing equipment effortless, Gear Park quickly became a trusted resource for touring professionals. Even today, high-profile clients like Halestorm and Garth Brooks continue to rely on it, proving its lasting value in the touring world.
2012 - Establish Bandit Lites Charlotte
In 2012, Bandit Lites took a big step in expanding our reach by opening an office in Charlotte, North Carolina. Housed in a modern, high-end building, this location was created to strengthen our integration capabilities and provide a local hub for clients in the region. While the office started with a broader team, today it is staffed by a single dedicated professional who keeps the Charlotte operations running smoothly, ensuring that our standards of service, reliability, and innovation continue to be delivered to every client. This office represents Bandit Lites’ commitment to growth and maintaining strong regional support, no matter the size of the team.
2026 - Looking Ahead
Bandit Lites continues to evolve as a global leader in lighting and production. With expanded facilities, cutting-edge technology, and a growing team of industry professionals, the company remains committed to innovation, safety, and excellence. Over the decades, Bandit has been recognized with an unprecedented 31 Lighting Company of the Year awards, a testament to the company’s relentless pursuit of quality and consistency. As the longest standing privately owned firm in the industry, Bandit continues to embody the same spirit of integrity and ingenuity that began in 1968. As Bandit celebrates over five decades of lighting the world’s greatest stages, the focus remains on the future.
A Storied History in Lighting
1973 – The Move to Knoxville
In 1973, Michael T. Strickland enrolled at the University of Tennessee in Knoxville, bringing Bandit Lites with him. What had started as a teenager’s passion project in Kingsport now traveled with him to college. Even from a dorm room, Strickland continued to grow the business. By his senior year, Bandit Lites was grossing $2 million annually.
1968 - The Beginning with "Borrowed" Lights
Driven by his passion for music and performance, 12-year-old Michael T. Strickland began borrowing lights from his local theatre to illuminate local shows. That inventive workaround quickly became a business, and the name “Bandit Lites” was born. Strickland later joked, “we borrowed everything we could get our hands on.” Some of the first bands Strickland lit included The Beach Boys, The Grass Roots, and Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons. These early experiences sparked the creation of what would become Bandit Lites.
1979 – Bandit Destroyed in a Fire
In 1979, tragedy struck when Bandit Lites was hit by a devastating fire, destroying the Knoxville facility entirely. Years of equipment, inventory, and hard work went up in flames. Rather than letting disaster define them, Michael T. Strickland and the Bandit team used the setback to rebuild. The tragedy was turned into an opportunity to reimagine operations and improve systems. This resilience preserved the company and cemented Bandit’s reputation as a reliable, determined partner in live production.
1982 – Bandit Nashville Opens
Bandit Lites expanded its reach by opening a Nashville office, strategically placing itself in the heart of the music industry. At the time, few major production firms had a presence in the city. Over the years, Nashville blossomed into the epicenter of live music and touring production. Bandit’s early move positioned the company at the forefront of this growth. This allowed the company to better serve artists, tours, and corporate clients across the Southeast.
1983 – First Ever Thomas Top Built in Knoxville
With Thomas Engineering now established, Bandit Lites put its capabilities into action by building its first Thomas Top in Knoxville. Designed as a full overhead support system for outdoor concerts, the structure reflected a growing focus on engineered solutions, safety, and scalable production design.
1982 – Establish Thomas Engineering US
With the establishment of Thomas Engineering in Knoxville, Bandit Lites took a major step forward in production infrastructure. The addition of engineered support systems and safety-focused design strengthened the company’s ability to deliver reliable, large-scale lighting solutions.
1988 - Establish Tomcat US
Seeing the need for accessible, high-quality production gear, Bandit Lites launches Tomcat US. The new division offered complete staging, lighting, and support systems, backed by clear price sheets and detailed specs, giving crews the tools they needed to build bigger, safer, and more spectacular shows.
1987 - Purchase Lights Up
With the purchase of Lights Up, Bandit Lites continued to build momentum, bringing new talent and inventory into the fold. The acquisition marked another step in scaling operations and broadening production capabilities.
1991 - Become Pan Command East Coast
Bandit Lites expands its operations by becoming Pan Command East Coast, strengthening its presence in the region and providing advanced lighting and production solutions to a growing network of venues and touring acts all within an 18 hour vicinity.
1991 - Acquire Avolites US
Bandit Lites acquires Avolites US, expanding its capabilities in lighting control and technology. This move strengthened the company’s access to advanced console systems and reinforced its position at the forefront of concert lighting innovation.
1993 - Win First Lighting Company of the Year Award
By 1993, Bandit Lites had established itself as a leader in the entertainment lighting industry. The company had become known by many for its dedication to professionalism, innovation, and unwavering commitment to quality. That year, Bandit Lites earned its first “Lighting Company of the Year” award. The award was the first of many honors to come, solidifying Bandit’s place among the most respected production firms in the world.
1993 – Acquire Meteorlites US
In 1993, Bandit Lites strengthened its domestic capabilities by acquiring MeteorLites US, a respected lighting company known for its innovative solutions and reliable service. By bringing MeteorLites into the Bandit family, we set the stage for even larger productions and established a foundation for the company’s continued growth and industry leadership.
1997 - Acquire Meteorlites UK
In 1997, Bandit Lites expanded its international presence by acquiring MeteorLites UK, a well-established lighting company in England. This strategic move allowed us to support more European tours and events, bringing Bandit’s signature precision, innovation, and reliability to a wider audience. Establishing a branch in the UK not only strengthened our global reach but also demonstrated our commitment to building long-term relationships with artists and clients across the world.
1996 – Construction Starts at 1600 JP Hennessy
Bandit Lites took a major step forward with the construction of a purpose-built facility at 1600 JP Hennessy Drive. This new building was a state-of-the-art Nashville location designed to house its growing inventory, production staff, and administrative operations under one roof. Since then, the 1600 JP Hennessy location has been transformed into Venue1, a complimentary rehearsal space for all Bandit clients.
1997 - Establish Bandit Lites UK
Bandit Lites expands its global footprint with the establishment of Bandit Lites UK in England. This strategic move allowed the company to better support the growing number of tours traveling throughout Europe by providing local access to equipment, crew, and technical expertise.
1998 - Establish Bandit Lites Hong Kong
Bandit Lites establishes a Hong Kong facility, enabling more affordable production of lighting gear. Beyond cost efficiency, the location became a hub for innovation, where the team designed environmentally friendly lights exclusively for Bandit’s own shows. It marked an important chapter in the company’s growth and commitment to sustainability.
2004 - Establish Vol Air
Bandit Lites broadens its operational capabilities with the establishment of Vol Air, LLC. Founded by Michael T. Strickland as part of Bandit’s family of companies, Vol Air provided aviation support that helped move people and gear more efficiently for touring shows and production logistics. This addition reflected Bandit’s commitment to comprehensive service in the live‑event business and underscored the company’s innovative approach to solving complex travel and transport challenges.
1999 - Establish Bandit Lites San Francisco
Bandit Lites expands to the West Coast with the establishment of a San Francisco office. This location allowed the company to better serve clients and productions in the region, and it continues to operate today as the base for one of our dedicated client representatives, maintaining strong relationships with West Coast partners.
2004 - Establish Best Techs
Bandit Lites establishes Best Techs, a separate company created to provide highly trained, part-time lighting technicians for tours, concerts, and special events. Designed to support the growing demand for skilled labor, Best Techs offered a structured system that handled payroll, taxes, and workers’ compensation, allowing technicians to focus on their craft. The program ensured consistent crew quality across productions and provided a training ground for up-and-coming talent.
2004 – Bandit Purchases 200,000 Square Foot Building in Nashville
In 2004, Bandit Lites took another bold step in its continued growth by purchasing a 200,000-square-foot facility in Nashville, Tennessee. The new facility provided vast warehouse space, advanced prep areas, and dedicated offices for touring support. It allowed Bandit to better serve artists, television productions, and special events on a global scale.
2007 - Partner with Skycam
In 2007, Bandit Lites took a leap into aerial camera technology by partnering with SkyCam, the industry leader in high-flying, cable-suspended cameras that capture events from above. This collaboration allowed us to integrate cutting-edge aerial camera solutions into tours and events, giving artists and audiences breathtaking perspectives that were previously impossible.
2009 - Establish GRNLite
Bandit Lites launched GRNLite, the world’s first fully LED lighting solution at the time. Designed to be both powerful and environmentally friendly, GRNLite set a new standard for energy-efficient, sustainable lighting in live events and touring.
2012 - Establish Bandit Lites Charlotte
In 2012, Bandit Lites took a big step in expanding our reach by opening an office in Charlotte, North Carolina. Housed in a modern, high-end building, this location was created to strengthen our integration capabilities and provide a local hub for clients in the region. This office represents Bandit Lites’ commitment to growth and maintaining strong regional support, no matter the size of the team.
2011 - Establish Gear Park
From our Nashville office, Bandit Lites introduced Gear Park, a secure, convenient locker system for artists and clients on tour. Designed to make storing and accessing equipment effortless, Gear Park quickly became a trusted resource for touring professionals. Even today, high-profile clients like Halestorm and Garth Brooks continue to rely on Gear Park.
2026 - Looking Ahead
Bandit Lites continues to evolve as a global leader in lighting and production. With expanded facilities, cutting-edge technology, and a growing team of industry professionals, the company remains committed to innovation, safety, and excellence. As the longest standing privately owned firm in the industry, Bandit continues to embody the same spirit of integrity and ingenuity that began in 1968.
Our Company Values
Humanomics
The concept of "Humanomics" was first coined by Bandit in 1990. This term encompasses the core value of the company: doing what is best for the people. This includes our clients, audiences, and employees. We foster a healthy work environment that respects each individual and the position they hold. This philosophy has brought Bandit to the forefront of the industry time and time again.
The Bandit Standard
Commitment to the Bandit Standard is expected of everyone on our team. It is a dedication to detail, teamwork, and respect for the wishes of the customer. Our integrity is only as strong as that of the employees, and must always be without question. Through these standards, we will exceed the expectations of our customers.
Proudly American
Bandit Lites is proud to be an American company that is family owned and operated. We remain rooted in our values and connected to our clients, setting us apart from other companies in the industry. Our approach has built lasting relationships, fostered trust, and ensured that every project receives the care and attention it deserves.
Our Company Values
Humanomics
The concept of "Humanomics" was first coined by Bandit in 1990. This term encompasses the core value of the company: doing what is best for the people. This includes our clients, audiences, and employees. We foster a healthy work environment that respects each individual and the position they hold. This philosophy has brought Bandit to the forefront of the industry time and time again.
The Bandit Standard
Commitment to the Bandit Standard is expected of everyone on our team. It is a dedication to detail, teamwork, and respect for the wishes of the customer. Our integrity is only as strong as that of the employees, and must always be without question. Through these standards, we will exceed the expectations of our customers.
Proudly American
Bandit Lites is proud to be an American company that is family owned and operated. We remain rooted in our values and connected to our clients, setting us apart from other companies in the industry. Our approach has built lasting relationships, fostered trust, and ensured that every project receives the care and attention it deserves.
Our Company Values
HUMANOMICS
The concept of "Humanomics" was first coined by Bandit in 1990. This term encompasses the core value of the company: doing what is best for the people. This includes our clients, audiences, and employees. We foster a healthy work environment that respects each individual and the position they hold. This philosophy has brought Bandit to the forefront of the industry time and time again.
THE BANDIT STANDARD
Commitment to the Bandit Standard is expected of everyone on our team. It is a dedication to detail, teamwork, and respect for the wishes of the customer. Our integrity is only as strong as that of the employees, and must always be without question. Through these standards, we will exceed the expectations of our customers.
PROUDLY AMERICAN
Bandit Lites is proud to be an American company that is family owned and operated. We remain rooted in our values and connected to our clients, setting us apart from other companies in the industry. Our approach has built lasting relationships, fostered trust, and ensured that every project receives the care and attention it deserves.
OUR LEGACY
Privately Owned. Built to Last.
In an industry increasingly driven by venture capital and corporate ownership, Bandit Lites stands apart as a privately held, family-run company. Founder Michael T. Strickland built Bandit on a foundation of integrity, innovation, and genuine care for people. Those same values continue to guide every decision today. With family leadership dedicated to carrying that vision forward, Bandit remains focused on serving clients, crew, and partners with consistency, stability, and heart.
OUR COMMITMENT
Lighting the Way in Our Communities.
Bandit’s commitment extends far beyond the stage. We invest in the communities that support us through ongoing philanthropy, volunteerism, and charitable partnerships. From local schools and nonprofits to national organizations, our goal is to make a lasting, positive impact. Giving back is not a side note to our story, but a central part of who we are and how we define success.
OUR LEGACY
Privately Owned. Built to Last.
In an industry increasingly driven by venture capital and corporate ownership, Bandit Lites stands apart as a privately held, family-run company. Founder Michael T. Strickland built Bandit on a foundation of integrity, innovation, and genuine care for people. Those same values continue to guide every decision today. With family leadership dedicated to carrying that vision forward, Bandit remains focused on serving clients, crew, and partners with consistency, stability, and heart.
OUR COMMITMENT
Lighting the Way in Our Communities.
Bandit’s commitment extends far beyond the stage. We invest in the communities that support us through ongoing philanthropy, volunteerism, and charitable partnerships. From local schools and nonprofits to national organizations, our goal is to make a lasting, positive impact. Giving back is not a side note to our story, but a central part of who we are and how we define success.
OUR LEGACY
Privately Owned. Built to Last.
In an industry increasingly driven by venture capital and corporate ownership, Bandit Lites stands apart as a privately held, family-run company. Founder Michael T. Strickland built Bandit on a foundation of integrity, innovation, and genuine care for people. Those same values continue to guide every decision today. With family leadership dedicated to carrying that vision forward, Bandit remains focused on serving clients, crew, and partners with consistency, stability, and heart.
OUR COMMITMENT
Lighting the Way in Our Communities.
Bandit’s commitment extends far beyond the stage. We invest in the communities that support us through ongoing philanthropy, volunteerism, and charitable partnerships. From local schools and nonprofits to national organizations, our goal is to make a lasting, positive impact. Giving back is not a side note to our story, but a central part of who we are and how we define success.
Bandit Shirts: Free Swag. Real History.
Bandit Lites has created custom shirts for the tours and productions we support since the 1980s. We give them out for free to crews and artists as a thank-you for the work we do together. Over the decades, tens of thousands of shirts have been distributed. It has become a famous lasting tradition within live music history.
Bandit Shirts: Free Swag. Real History.
Bandit Lites has created custom shirts for the tours and productions we support since the 1980s. We give them out for free to crews and artists as a thank-you for the work we do together. Over the decades, tens of thousands of shirts have been distributed. It has become a famous lasting tradition within live music history.
Bandit Shirts: Free Swag. Real History.
Bandit Lites has created custom shirts for the tours and productions we support since the 1980s. We give them out for free to crews and artists as a thank-you for the work we do together. Over the decades, tens of thousands of shirts have been distributed. It has become a famous lasting tradition within live music history.
Bandit Lites
Hall of Fame
Rick Herndon
Rick Munroe
Don Lockridge
Brent Barrett
Steve Hoover
Eric Shafferman
Leonard Cox
Sam Harden
Tim Foltz
Kent Shafferman
Bandit Lites
Hall of Fame
Rick Herndon
Rick Munroe
Don Lockridge
Brent Barrett
Steve Hoover
Eric Shafferman
Leonard Cox
Sam Harden
Tim Foltz
Kent Shafferman
Bandit Lites
Hall of Fame
Rick Herndon
Rick Munroe
Don Lockridge
Brent Barrett
Steve Hoover
Eric Shafferman
Leonard Cox
Sam Harden
Tim Foltz
