The iconic Manic Street Preachers have thrown their support behind a charitable cause with the signing of vinyl editions of their albums for a raffle in Bath. The event, set to take place at Resolution Records in Green Park Station in April, will donate all proceeds to mental health charity Mind.
Inspired by her own experiences, 19-year-old Ruby Lawson, who works at the record store, initiated the raffle as a way to give back to her community. Half of the proceeds will go to Newport Mind, while the other half will benefit Bath Mind as a tribute to her hometown and current residence.
Ruby’s personal connection to the band made their involvement in the raffle a natural choice. Having known bassist Nicky Wire since childhood, she expressed gratitude for the band’s immediate willingness to support the cause.
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Mental health holds a significant place in the band’s narrative, with the ongoing struggle of guitarist Richey Edwards, who disappeared in 1995 after battling depression. Highlighting the importance of mental health, Ruby aims to use the raffle as a platform to address its critical significance.
The surge in vinyl’s popularity, known as ‘the vinyl revival,’ has provided a welcome boost to the charity raffle. In an era where physical media has dwindled, the enduring appeal of vinyl saw a staggering 6.7 million units sold nationally in 2024.
Discussing the resurgence of vinyl, Ruby emphasized the tangible nature of vinyl in contrast to the transient nature of streaming, expressing that physical possession adds an irreplaceable value.
Concerns over streaming’s impact on artists' earnings were also raised, with streaming services, in particular, drawing attention to the inequitable distribution of royalties. Ruby echoed the sentiment that musicians deserve fair compensation for their creative labor.
Scheduled for 3pm on Tuesday, April 29 at Resolution Records, the raffle offers the chance to win signed LPs, with single and multiple entry options available for purchase at the store or online.
For those grappling with mental health challenges, support is available.