The power of music – Chris’ fundraising story
Since returning after a 10-year hiatus, the band Doves planned a grand UK tour to take place in 2022, only to announce some time later that all dates would be cancelled due to lead signer Jimi Goodwin experiencing poor mental health. Keen music fan Chris Kelly, struck by Jimi’s story of honesty and full with compassion, decided to fundraise for Mental Health UK by releasing cover songs of some of the band’s well-loved singles.
Photo by Giles Rocholl
Now, nearly six months later, Chris is on the cusp of releasing the music album, titled ‘Lost Covers’. Fans will be able to download the album from April 29th to coincide with 20th anniversary of Doves second album, ‘The Last Broadcast’. ‘Lost Covers’ will be available as a digital download from the website www.lostcovers.com. The website will also allow for donations to be made to a dedicated Just Giving page for Mental Health UK.
We spoke to Chris about why he felt so compelled to fundraise when he heard the news about Jimi’s mental health, and why through music he felt he could make a difference and fundraise for the charity.
“Like thousands of fans I was shocked and saddened to learn of the cancelled tour. My sense of sadness went out to Jimi, and I could only imagine what he must be going through. My feelings were compounded when I read all the comments from well-wishers on the bands Facebook page. We had all been through a difficult time since the onslaught of the COVID-19 pandemic had broken the hearts of many in societies all around the world. The music of Doves was a ray of light to countless fans, and I felt compelled to do something to show to Jimi and the band that we were with them having launched such a successful comeback of their own. That was where the idea of ‘Lost Covers’ started.”
“I was compelled and excited to start a fundraiser for mental health through a mutual love of the band and their music in October 2021. Thanks to social media I reached out to fans to come forward and record a cover of their favourite Doves song. From a shortlist, each suitable recording would become part of an album that could be downloaded in return for a donation to Mental Health UK. The response was overwhelming and incredibly heartening as fans from across the world came forward.”
There’s many ways to fundraise for Mental Health UK, and if something in your life has recently inspired you to make a difference, why not check out our creative fundraising page with ideas on how you can support the nation’s mental health through fundraising.
