Letterkenny audiologist Martina McNulty is helping music legend Rick Astley keep his hearing in check!
New research from Specsavers has found that Rick’s smash hit “Never Gonna Give You Up” is one of the nation’s top ten most misheard songs.
People have misheard for years – including “you wouldn’t catch nits from any other guy” and “your aunt’s been naked”. Almost one in ten thought Astley was singing ‘Never Gonna Run Around with Dessert Spoons’.
Rick returned to the studio recently to re-record his iconic hit single with the misheard lyrics.
To help him stay pitch-perfect, Martina McNulty, Specsavers Ireland Audiology Chairperson came to the rescue.
Watch here:
Rick had noticed his hearing changing over time so recently had a hearing test at Specsavers. It showed he has some hearing loss.
“It’s probably a result of playing the drums as a kid and working in the music industry, so they’ve given me my first hearing aids,” he said.
“It’s important to remember that everyone’s hearing is different. Some people lose high notes, others lose low frequency sounds.
“I’d encourage anyone to get their hearing tested if they notice any changes, so they don’t lose the sounds or music they love.”
Specsavers has partnered with Rick to re-record the iconic hit, to encourage the nation to think about their hearing health, so they can spot the signs and take action if they are struggling.
Rick says: “I had great fun re-recording the song with Specsavers and discovering the amusing ways people have misheard my song. It felt weird singing different lyrics but I’m pleased to be raising awareness of hearing loss, as there is still a stigma around this.”
According to the research, 40% of people in Ireland have noticed changes in their hearing over the last 10 years but astonishingly more than half (61%) have taken no action to address these changes.
Other studies have shown that people often wait 10 years, before addressing changes in their hearing, despite the help readily available on high streets across the country. This can result in a reduced quality of life, difficulty communicating and feelings of isolation.
For respondents with hearing issues, coping mechanisms include saying ‘yes’ without really knowing what is being said (56%), leaning ears closer (37%), or awkwardly laughing (39%). Furthermore, 50% admit to asking people to frequently repeat themselves, which 78% confessed to finding embarrassing.
Commenting on the findings, Martina McNulty, Specsavers Ireland Audiology Chairperson says: “Hearing loss affects millions of people worldwide, but often goes undiagnosed and untreated and that is a terrible shame because it often leads to social isolation. If you notice any changes in your hearing, don’t wait 10 years to get checked. Hearing change is completely normal and is nothing to be embarrassed or ashamed about.”
Alongside embarrassment, reasons given for not going for a hearing test include not feeling like it was needed (49%), being too busy (19%) and because no one else they know gets their hearing checked (10%).
Ms McNulty continues: “Specsavers understands that we all hear differently because we care for more ears across Ireland than anyone else. We believe that everyone deserves to hear life in their own unique way and we are determined to help close the 10-year gap that exists currently.
“The quicker we understand the way that we hear, the quicker we can act when we notice changes which will help minimise any long-term impact.”
To watch Rick Astley re-recording The Misheard Version of Never Gonna Give You Up, visit https://www.specsavers.ie/misheard-version
If you think your hearing is changing, don’t wait – book a free hearing test at Specsavers to stay in tune with the sounds you love. Early intervention can transform lives and Specsavers hearing experts will help you find the right hearing aids to suit your needs and lifestyle.
To find out more, visit: www.specsavers.ie/hearing
Did you know you can now get €1000 towards hearing aids with PRSI if you are eligible? for more information or to make an appointment with one of the team, please call 074 9167040, or visit www.specsavers.ie/stores/letterkenny-hearing.
Specsavers Hearing Centre in Donegal Town is also open for wax removals and hearings tests. Book via telephone number is (074) 974 2686 or online https://www.specsavers.ie/stores/donegaltown
