Live music inspires millions around the world, but while artists have been able to embrace the new possibilities afforded by social media and streaming sites in the wake of Covid-19, the talented men and women who so often stand behind them have not been so lucky. With this in mind, charitable fund Crew Nation has been created to extend a helping hand to the touring and venue crews who depend on a constant run of shows to make a living.
The fund – powered and administered by charitable 501c3 organization, Music Forward Foundation – has been kickstarted in inspiring style by Live Nation, which has contributed an initial $5 million and committed to match the next $5 million given by artists, fans, and employees. So far superstars such as Coldplay, Miley Cyrus, Metallica, John Mayer, and many more have shown their support and donated.
Having become aware of the initiative, Italian producer Powersoft has pledged to donate 5% of the proceeds from the touring amplifier platforms sold between 27th July and 15th of October, to Crew Nation. The Powersoft campaign that will follow is based on the key concept that ‘behind every show stands a great live music crew’, to underline the importance of the people behind the scenes of the shows that are so important to so many.
Powersoft’s brand, communication, and trade marketing manager, Francesco Fanicchi, said: “We spent time doing research to find the right organization to partner with, and eventually we came to realize that Crew Nation would be the perfect channel. Although It is difficult to make any assumptions on sales levels during this period, we will use our marketing capabilities to promote this operation to industry professionals in the hope that we will raise a significant contribution to Crew Nation.”
“We greatly appreciate Powersoft extending a helping hand to the touring and venue crews who depend on shows to make a living. Their pledge will go a long way to assist Crew Nation in its mission to support and provide grants for these backstage staff who are struggling the most during these difficult times,” said Nurit Smith, executive director of the Music Forward Foundation. “Together with partners like Powersoft, Crew Nation can ensure that the live community has the support it needs.”
