aaamusic | On 06, Jul 2010

Pledge Music ( www.pledgemusic.com), the leading direct-to-fan platform is among several organizations mobilizing fans and fellow musicians to provide help for Madina Lake bassist Matthew Leone.

Leone was savagely attacked while trying to protect a victim of domestic violence in his home city of Chicago. As a result of the attack, he has sustained a number of very serious injuries and has required brain surgery.

Pledge Music and Sweet Relief Musicians Fund have partnered to raise money to help with Leone’s medical costs.

Pledge Music founder and CEO Benji Rogers said, “Since we started working with the band in January, Matthew and I worked closely on Madina Lake’s E.P. campaign. He is one of the nicest people I have worked with since we started this company. His bravery in this moment is not surprising. The band’s commitment to their fans is always at the forefront of what they do and we are committed to making this as easy a process as possible for both the Leone family and for Matthew.”

Madina Lake’s Pledge Music campaign is now collecting funds that will go to Sweet Relief Musicians Fund in Matthew’s name and Pledge Music has agreed to waive their commission on all post EP target funds raised.

Sweet Relief Musicians Fund was founded in 1993 by singer/songwriter Victoria Williams. Since then they have provided support for career musicians who face illness and/or need assistance due to age.  The organization works with musicians to determine their most pressing needs and helps with medical bills, insurance premiums, living expenses and treatments not covered by insurance.

“We simply can’t thank you enough for your generosity, compassion, love and amazing energy that has all been an integral part of Matthew’s recovery,” said Nathan Leone, Matthew’s twin brother, in response to the outpouring of well wishes and financial contributions from fans.

To help, please visit http://www.pledgemusic.com/projects/madinalake.