COLUMBUS — A local band is using their platform to make a difference and urging Ohioans to think twice about driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Mackenzie Coyne is the lead vocalist and guitarist for “Hello Luna,” a rock band based in Columbus. The group recently paired with the Ohio chapter of “Recording Artists Against Drunk Driving” for a new project.
“It was basically just us playing our original songs and then they had a segment where we interviewed with someone,” said Coyne. “We just talked about our music and our feelings about what RADD was all about.”
Early data released by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration show fatal crashes involving alcohol were up 9% in 2020 compared to 2019.
RADD Ohio, a national nonprofit that has been around for 40 years, works to decrease both alcohol and drug-related impaired driving.
The organization encourages people to make a plan to get home safely before going out. They spread their message through projects with bands like “Hello Luna,” and by partnering with colleges and setting up booths at concerts.
“Being in the music industry, there’s a lot of partying and there’s a dark side to this,” said Coyne. “So anything I can do to speak into that and create a safer space for everyone is awesome.”
