Backline, a national 501(c)(3) nonprofit providing mental health resources to professionals and their families across all levels of the music industry, turns seven today. Because today is October 7, it’s also the organization’s golden birthday, and Backline is celebrating the occasion by looking back at seven ways its work has made a direct impact.
The organization has also launched a golden birthday fundraising drive with a goal of raising $77,777 in October. Seven dollars funds a take.care kit, $77 supports a month of case management, $777 helps match seven individuals with personalized care, and so on. Donate here, and read on to see what your support makes possible.
For more about mental health in the music industry, listen to Going There with Dr. Mike from the Consequence Podcast Network . Season 7 is now underway, with guests like Finn Wolfhard, Paris Paloma, Matt Hansen, and more to come.
4,151 People Received One-on-One Support
Through Backline’s Case Management system and 24/7 B-LINE support line, 4,151 individuals across the music industry have received free care over the past seven years. Of that number, 3,331 connected with a Backline Case Manager to receive a personalized Care Plan — this writer included.
B-LINE Offers Help Anytime, Anywhere
In January of this year, Backline launched B-LINE, offering 24/7 mental health and crisis support to music industry professionals by call or text. Since it went online just eight months ago, 757 people have utilized the resource.
7 Years, Over $700,000 in Care
Backline has helped cover over $700,000 in mental health care via its Music’s Mental Health Fund in partnership with Sweet Relief Musicians Fund. That support has reached individuals, crew members, touring bands, and beyond. It also extends financial support through programs with Colorado Music Hall of Fame, SONA Foundation, Be Good to Yourself x SIMS Foundation, and Red Dirt Relief Fund.
Harmony in Practice Builds a Network of Industry-Savvy Clinicians
Backline’s clinical training workshop, Harmony in Practice, was designed to build a network of providers who understand the specific challenges facing music industry professionals. To date, 1,810 clinicians have taken part, learning how to better support the wellness needs of musicians, crew members, and others in the industry.
Photo by Ben Kaye
Major Artists Are Backing Up Backline, and Vice Versa
Chappell Roan’s 2025 Grammys speech made headlines, but she backed up those words with money. The pop star donated $25,000 to Backline’s “We Got You!” fund, a gift that was then matched by both Charli xcx and Noah Kahan. Kahan’s Busyhead Project, his own mental health initiative launched in 2023, has also teamed with Backline to provide access to free care and services to artists and professionals across the music world.
Backline’s work hasn’t gone unnoticed: Co-founder and Executive Director Hilary Gleason was featured in Billboard’s 40 Under 40, sitting down with Billy Strings for a feature on her work and relationships in music. Backline was also part of Rolling Stone‘s “Rock & Roll Is Here to Stay” package in September.
Backline Meets Music Works Where They Are
Backline offers plenty of online resources, including workbooks and guides, but it also does on-the-ground work. It has connected with 4,587 people backstage at venues and festivals, offering everything from massages and yoga to IV drips and its take.care wellness kits. The hand-packed totes are filled with products meant to reduce stress and encourage self-care among touring workers. At Ariana Grande’s “Eternal Sunshine Tour” stop in Los Angeles, for example, Backline delivered 200 kits to crew members as part of a new partnership with Grande’s Bright Days Ahead Foundation.
Musicians Are Showing Up, Too
WWorld Mental Health Day is October 10, and Backline has used the occasion to spotlight its mission with concerts featuring stacked lineups. Wynonna Judd, Brittney Spencer, Sierra Hull, The Beaches, MisterWives, Maggie Rose, and many more have played Backline shows. B-LINE itself launched with a special night at New York’s Irving Plaza featuring DJ Questlove, Steve Earle, Joy Oladokun, Cautious Clay, and MELT.
To support Backline’s work providing vital mental health resources, care, and connection to artists and music industry professionals, donate via the organization’s website.
