Pat Sheridan Launches Sight for Sound Initiative for Touring Musicians
Pat Sheridan, renowned guitarist for Fit for an Autopsy and Director of Partnerships at NEVEN Eyewear, has unveiled a groundbreaking initiative designed specifically for touring musicians and their crew members. This initiative, known as Sight for Sound, aims to provide free eyewear — both prescription and non-prescription glasses and sunglasses — to eligible individuals within the music industry.
A Unique Blend of Music and Business
Who would have thought that a veteran deathcore guitarist like Sheridan would also possess a keen business acumen? His collaboration with NEVEN Eyewear and heavy music enthusiast Jonathan Strauss exemplifies how music professionals can intertwine their passion with community support. The Sight for Sound initiative stands out as a testament to this blend of artistic dedication and social responsibility.
Eligibility and Purpose
According to a press release, “If you’re a U.S.-based touring or music industry professional and work on 75-plus shows per year, you’re eligible.” This initiative seeks to address the pressing issue of inadequate healthcare coverage for artists and crew members, a concern highlighted by pop superstar Chappell Roan in her recent Grammy acceptance speech. While Sight for Sound may not solve all healthcare-related problems in the touring music industry, it represents a significant step in addressing one of the many gaps faced by these professionals.
How to Get Involved
For qualified musicians and crew members, applying for free eyewear is simple. Interested individuals can fill out a form on the Sight for Sound webpage to receive their glasses or sunglasses, helping to alleviate some of the financial burdens associated with eye care.
Community Awareness and Support
Jonathan Strauss emphasizes the challenges faced by those in the music industry, stating, “A lot of people think musicians or people in the industry are living the dream, but what they don’t see is the reality behind the scenes — no healthcare, no safety net. And when a tour ends, the realities of life kick in fast.”
He further explains, “We started Sight for Sound because we wanted to change that, even in a small way. This is the least we can do — to support a community that often gets overlooked once the lights go down.”
Impact on the Music Community
Pat Sheridan echoes these sentiments, saying, “Our Sight for Sound program is life-changing for musicians and crew members. I’ve been in the extreme music scene since the ’90s, and vision has never been addressed before. Musicians aren’t offered a 401K plan, health insurance, or vision benefits. It’s an honor to save music industry professionals thousands of dollars a year.”
The NEVEN Eyewear Brand
Founded by Jonathan Strauss and his wife, NEVEN Eyewear started in their home, embodying a grassroots approach that resonates with metal fans. Strauss states, “Metal fans can smell bullshit from a mile away. NEVEN doesn’t fake it. We’re not some polished, corporate eyewear brand trying to be edgy. We’re real people who built this brand from the ground up, with grit, heart, and a DIY mentality that mirrors the energy of the scene.”
NEVEN has already partnered with notable figures from the heavy music genre, including Gary Holt (Exodus), Tony Foresta (Municipal Waste), Tanner Wayne (In Flames), Zach Johnson (The Ghost Inside), and Phil Sgrosso (Saosin).
Conclusion
The launch of Sight for Sound by Pat Sheridan and NEVEN Eyewear marks a significant milestone in supporting the often-overlooked needs of touring musicians and their crews. By providing essential eyewear, this initiative not only addresses a basic health necessity but also fosters a sense of community and solidarity within the music industry. As the initiative gains traction, it could inspire further efforts to address the broader healthcare challenges faced by artists and industry professionals.
FAQs
Who is eligible for the Sight for Sound initiative?
U.S.-based touring or music industry professionals who work on 75 or more shows per year are eligible to apply for free eyewear through the Sight for Sound program.
What types of eyewear does the initiative provide?
The Sight for Sound initiative offers both prescription and non-prescription glasses and sunglasses for eligible musicians and crew members.
How can I apply for free eyewear?
Interested individuals can fill out a form on the Sight for Sound webpage to apply for free eyewear.
Who started NEVEN Eyewear?
NEVEN Eyewear was founded by Jonathan Strauss and his wife, starting from their home with a vision to create authentic eyewear for the metal community.
