The Prize
We are incredibly grateful to Squeeze and Fender for donating this truly spectacular prize – a stunning Player II Stratocaster signed by ALL the band on 11th November 2024, just before their sell-out show at London's Royal Albert Hall.
This guitar was specifically chosen for its similarity to the one played by Chris Difford in Squeeze's iconic 'Up the Junction' music video.
In addition to the guitar, we're delighted to offer the following runner-up prizes, donated by Squeeze and Fender:
- A drum head played during Squeeze's recent 50th anniversary tour, signed by Chris Difford and Glenn Tilbrook
- A drumstick played during Squeeze's recent 50th anniversary tour, signed by Chris Difford and Glenn Tilbrook
- A setlist from the band's recent 50th anniversary tour, signed by Chris Difford and Glenn Tilbrook
- A poster from the band's recent 50th anniversary tour, signed by Chris Difford and Glenn Tilbrook
- A plectrum used during Squeeze's recent 50th anniversary tour
- A pair of standard tickets to see Squeeze perform at Caldicot Castle on 3rd August (further event details)
- A pair of standard tickets to see Squeeze perform at Carfest in Overton on 24th August (further event details)
- A pair of standard tickets to see Squeeze perform at Pub in the Park in St Albans on 7th September (further event details)
- A Fender Neoprene guitar strap
- A Dixxon Flannel Company limited edition Fender shirt (size Large)
Squeeze are one of rock’s most vital institutions, known for their vibrantly melodic and perceptive songs, written by Chris Difford and Glenn Tilbrook—the duo at the heart of the band since its inception. Hits from the '70s and '80s, such as Cool for Cats and Another Nail in My Heart, cemented their reputation as the “next Lennon and McCartney.”
Following a critically acclaimed performance at Glastonbury Festival, the band are touring the UK and USA throughout the remainder of 2024 to celebrate their 50th anniversary, showing no signs of slowing down anytime soon.
Regarding the band’s donation, Chris Difford said,
“We’re really happy to sign this guitar, donated by our friends at Fender, to raise funds to help Music Support continue their crucial work in supporting our music industry peers experiencing challenges with substance use and mental health, a cause very close to my heart.”
Regarding their donation, Fender said:
"At Fender, we champion the spirit of rock 'n' roll, so we're proud to donate this Player Stratocaster II to raise funds for Music Support, a charity that champions the wellbeing of everyone in the UK music industry, both on stage and behind the scenes."
This brand-new, stage-ready guitar features contemporary updates designed to power your performance and inspire your playing. While it radiates timeless Fender charm, under the hood, it’s fully equipped for today’s players.
Follow this link for the full spec.
How do I enter the prize draw?
To enter the prize draw, purchase at least one entry for £5. Each entry gives you a chance to win one of the prizes, and buying multiple entries increases your chances of winning.
To participate, select one of the entry options on this page. Alternatively, you can enter the prize draw without donating by post—see the terms and conditions for details. By donating and entering the prize draw, you agree to the terms and conditions.
If you'd like to support Music Support without entering the prize draw, you can make a donation here.
About Music Support
"There is no doubt in my mind that without what you guys do, I wouldn't be here."
Music Support is a UK charity founded in 2016 by people from the UK music industry, for people working in the UK music industry. We provide help and support to anyone facing challenges with substance use and/or mental health, as well as to their family, friends, and the wider music industry.
We offer a person-centred, safe space where individuals can connect and access specialist help—confidentially and without judgment.
Our support extends to all areas of the industry, whether you’re an A-list artist or a member of the crew. We believe in arming our peers with the tools and resources they need to prevent crises, but if they do occur, we are here to help.
Find out more about what we do.
How will funds raised be used?
We rely on donations to enable our team to continue their crucial work. Funds raised through this special campaign will go directly towards hiring a new member for our Support Services team, helping us meet the growing demand within the industry.
We are currently supporting the highest number of beneficiaries since our launch, with a 51% increase in Helpline demand over the past year. Common stressors include challenges with alcohol and drugs, as well as anxiety, depression, and burnout. An anonymous survey we conducted with artists and crew at UK festivals in summer 2024 revealed a troubling rise in those experiencing suicidal thoughts — 21% of respondents, up from 18% in 2023.
Our work has never been more vital. Adding an extra member to our Support Services team will allow us to increase frontline support by 80%. This could include responding to crisis Helpline calls, providing vital interventions for substance use challenges, and offering weekly support calls to peers, their families and friends.
Thank you for your support.
What have our beneficiaries said about Music Support?
"Music Support literally saved my life – they spoke with hospital staff when I was on the edge of suicide and stressed the importance of my case. Things are much better now; I'm nine months sober and have the tools to live my life fully."
"I had been trying to get my son help for the last six years. What you have done in the last two weeks is more than anyone has ever done for us. We can't thank you enough."
"I was referred to Music Support by a friend last Christmas when I was having a hard time. I was immediately treated with kindness and quickly connected with someone. It was a pleasure and a privilege to speak to the person I spoke to for the following six months – their ability to deal with the specificities of the music industry was a particularly strong point. It’s extremely comforting to know that resources like the ones I was offered exist and are easily available to those who really need them."
Read more beneficiary testimonials here.