Vicky Cornell, wife of the late Chris Cornell, John Legend and Ludacris have joined other musicians and music industry identities for the launch of Tour Support.
Tour Support is a new organization providing mental health support for the touring community.
Vicky Cornell said in a statement, “Losing Chris has been the single most devastating experience in my family’s life. Tragically, there are countless stories like this, but we only hear about the famous ones. The music community has lost far too many. We must promote and prioritize mental health and wellness and creating a real support system on the road is critical. Intervention is prevention.
“Chris’s death was tragic and what makes it more so is that it was completely preventable. Tour Support’s trainings and resources will specifically help support the music community that Chris will always be a part of. I’m honored to be a part of their efforts to raise awareness, educate and support our extended families on the road.”
Touring and recording artist Rick Springfield, an outspoken advocate for mental health awareness, says, “Being on the road is like going to war. Except people send love instead of bullets your way. You’d think we’d have no excuse for being depressed. But it happens. Isolation, being away from family, alcohol abuse. All take its toll. Artists hope to bring joy to their audiences but sometimes it has the reverse effect on the artist. Tour Support will make a big difference.”
The list of artists supporting Tour Support includes John Legend, Ludacris, Steve Aoki, MARINA, Grace VanderWaal, Rick Springfield, Lindsey Stirling, Hobo Johnson, Ana Tijoux, Boy Pablo, The National, AJR, Raphael Saadiq, Sofi Tukker, Mashrou Leila, Jake Shears, John Mark McMillan, Mike Birbiglia, Brett Kissel, My Morning Jacket, José González, Scott Helman, Bebel Gilberto, Kevin Morby, Madame Gandhi, Billy Howerdel, Caitlyn Smith, Pink Martini, Riley Clemmons, Cut Copy, Jarina De Marco, Helado Negro, Grace Weber, Ruth-Anne Cunningham, The War & Treaty, Gary Gulman, The Aquadolls, Ali Walker, William Fitzimmons, Stars, Cori Marks, Geographer, Caribou/Daphni, The Barr Brothers, VOILÀ, Steve A. Clark, Xenia Rubinos, One Bad Son, ÌFÉ, Frawley, Speelberg, Eddie Berman and Katell Keineg.
One of the first organisations to offer financial support for Tour Support was Live Nation. Live Nation Entertainment CEO and President Michael Rapino says, “Artists and crews spend their lives on the road, bringing shows to life for fans around the world. But that dedication can come with sacrifice. It’s critical that we provide support to ensure that everyone can maintain sound mind and body while on the road. Live Nation is proud to join in providing new resources for mental health and wellness for the behind-the-scenes heroes who make it all happen.”
More information about the plan can be found at: lighthopelife.org/tour-support
Instagram: @YourTourSupport
Facebook: facebook.com/yourtoursupport
Twitter: @YourTourSupport
#toursupport
#betterhelptoursupport
