Patterson Hood
Drive-By Truckers

Q: What made you become involved with Nuci’s?

A: I’ve been involved pretty much since it opened. When I heard what Linda was doing, I tried to get involved as far as raising money and awareness. And I benefited personally. [Drive-By Truckers] rehearsed for [its] last tour there. A couple of members of the band have gone there for counseling. It goes pretty deep as far as our connection to Nu�i’s Space all the way around. We’re connected in ways that are personal and musical. I think the whole concept is just truly brilliant. Artists are particularly prone to having some emotional problems and tend to be among the most hesitant to reach out and receive help. It helps us to break down barriers that would stop somebody from reaching out and getting help.

Q: What’s the best way for you personally to help out?

A: I’ve done some solo benefit shows and the band tries to do one a year – we’re talking about putting one together in January. [The Space] actually provided a place for benefits for a friend whose daughter had cancer. It’s such a vital part and unique to this community, and there’s nothing like that anywhere else. It’s a special thing, and I’m honored to do whatever I can to help them out.

Ben Mize
Former Counting Crows Drummer

Q: How did you hear about Nuci’s Space?

A: In 2000, I was looking for a place to practice and didn’t have anywhere at the time. I heard that was the spot and I went in, and from my first encounter with Bob Sleppy I just felt totally comfortable.

Q: Your thoughts on the organization?

A: Being at that place is therapeutic. I came to the conclusion that no matter what they provide or do or whatever cool bands they have playing there, all of that is insignificant to the fact they’re there. And the people are there. And that’s everything. For someone to know there is enough experience with depression to have a place like that to exist. And to have a struggling person to know people are there – that’s the huge value.

Q: How have you been involved?

A: I was telling a friend of mine in L.A. about the place, and he really identified with it. He was working with the B52s at the time and asked them to play a benefit. I thought it was unlikely for a band at that level to do it, but they ended up doing their 25th anniversary show at The 40 Watt to benefit Nuci’s Space. [In the past years] I’ve mostly been helping brainstorm ideas and people to contact that can help The Space.

- Anna Krakovski