Jeff Ament: From Skateboarding to Music and Community Building
Growing up in Big Sandy, Montana, Jeff Ament developed a passion for skateboarding at a young age. His interest was sparked by a family trip to California, where he experienced the thrill of skateboarding on paved streets with urethane wheels. Ament's father played a crucial role in nurturing his love for skateboarding by helping him build decks and ramps based on designs from Skateboarder magazine. This early experience instilled in Ament a lifelong appreciation for the sport and the artistry behind it.
As a founding member of the band Pearl Jam, Ament has used his success in the music industry to support the creation of top-notch skateboard parks in Montana. These parks, located in small communities and Native American reservations, serve as vital spaces for youth to engage in skateboarding and foster creativity. Ament believes that skateboarding is not just a sport but also an art form that can bring people together and challenge stereotypes.
Ament's commitment to promoting skateboarding as a positive outlet for young people is highlighted in the documentary "Paving the Way." The film showcases the transformative power of skateboarding in Indigenous communities, emphasizing the importance of creativity, resilience, and community building. Through partnerships with local tribes, Ament's Montana Pool Service has helped establish new skateparks, providing a platform for youth to express themselves and connect with others.
In addition to his advocacy for skateboarding, Ament recently delivered a commencement speech at MSU-Northern, encouraging graduates to explore the world beyond their rural hometowns. He believes in the potential of the younger generation to make a positive impact and is inspired by their enthusiasm for new experiences. Ament's dedication to supporting youth and promoting cultural awareness is evident in his efforts to ensure that "Paving the Way" reaches Indigenous communities and spreads a message of hope and joy.
As Pearl Jam prepares to return to the stage at the Ohana festival in California, Ament is excited about the band's future. With a new drummer set to join the lineup, Pearl Jam is eager to introduce fresh music to their fans. Ament emphasizes the importance of live performances in shaping the band's sound before heading back to the studio for a new record. Despite the challenges of finding a new drummer, Ament is optimistic about the band's evolution and looks forward to sharing their music with audiences worldwide.