Metal, Hardcore, Indie, Rock
This past April, Oliver ‘Ol’ Drake of the British thrashers Evile used GoFundMe to try to gather money for the debt he had accrued from years of working in the music business, as per theprp. The campaign’s goal of raising £8,000 was ultimately achieved. Drake described the financial difficulties he was having when he started the campaign.
My name is Oliver and I dedicated the majority of my life to music in a metal band called Evile; writing the music and touring the world to play it.
Over the years I would often sell everything I own to fund my existence and maintain momentum with my band, but with this, over time, also came debt. Being in an active, touring band is a surprisingly expensive endeavour, and it is difficult to find a steady, well-paying job that will let you tour 5 months out of the year and come back to employment.
I have been streaming guitar on Twitch over the years to try and help chip away at the debt I accumulated through music, but the cost of living makes this a difficult endeavour. I also run a guitar school on Patreon, take part in session recording sessions when available, and create guitar/comedy content online so I’m at my very limit to try and make ends meet. Over the years, I’ve sold everything I’ve ever owned to fund being in a band.
I work full-time now and the band at most is a hobby, but even with a salary, we still struggle to provide for our kids with the debt looming over us. My better half, Natalie, fights like a warrior with her autism, ADHD, and BPPD.
I take full responsibility for having chosen the path I chose, but I am not ashamed to ask for help, as we desperately need it. Any funds raised will be used to pay off debt, and allow us to finally be able to improve our current living conditions, mainly for our kids. (5yo F, 8yo F both autistic).
This is not a sob story or call for attention but a request for help. Anything that anyone can give would be greatly appreciated.
Thank you.
Oliver
