LA wildfire relief
On Friday (Jan. 31), two nights ahead of the 67th annual Grammy Awards, UPROXX and will.i.am will host “LA Check-In,” an event dedicated to supporting the LA music community and fire relief efforts. In partnership with the i.am Angel Foundation, the event will feature a performance by Coast Contra and special appearances by will.i.am, DJ […]
In response to the devastating wildfires that have swept through Los Angeles, an all-star lineup of artists will come together for “G*ve a F*ck LA“, a benefit concert aimed at supporting relief efforts and aiding displaced communities.
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Set for Feb. 5 at the Hollywood Palladium, the event will feature Hayley Williams, St. Vincent, and Finneas, with additional performances by Lucy Dacus, MUNA, Perfume Genius, The Linda Lindas, Phantom Planet, Courtney Barnett, Christopher Owens, Reggie Watts, Fred Armisen, Jenny Lewis, Juliette Lewis, and Scout Willis.
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Actor-comedian John C. Reilly will host the evening, which will also include surprise guests and DJ sets from Harmony Tividad and Fat Tony. Following the concert, Rico Nasty and Dylan Brady host an official afterparty.
Proceeds from the concert will support local organizations, including Altadena Girls, Friends in Deed, One Voice, and the Pasadena Humane Society. Tickets are now available, as well as an option to stream the concert with a minimum donation of $5.
The announcement follows a wave of philanthropic efforts from the music community. Beyoncé’s BeyGOOD foundation has donated $2.5 million to wildfire relief, while Paris Hilton has launched a fund for displaced families. Artists such as Dave Grohl and Flavor Flav have also been involved in initiatives to assist those affected.
The concert also comes on the heels of the “FireAid” benefit concerts on Jan. 30, featuring Billie Eilish, Joni Mitchell, Green Day, Lady Gaga, Olivia Rodrigo, Earth, Wind & Fire, Gracie Abrams and many more. The event will take place at two iconic venues, the Intuit Dome and the Kia Forum in Inglewood, California.
Los Angeles has faced unprecedented destruction this month, with five wildfires displacing over 150,000 residents and causing 28 fatalities, while many remain missing.
As wildfires continue to threaten Los Angeles amid dangerous “red flag” conditions, the boutique bank Raine has announced that its Grammy Week event will be reframed as a fundraiser for music professionals affected by the massive Palisades and Eaton blazes.
The event, to be held on Jan. 30 at the San Vicente Bungalows in West Hollywood from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., will be co-hosted by Raine, the National Music Publishers’ Association, and music industry publications Music Business Worldwide and HITS. Donations will go to the Recording Academy and MusiCares’ Los Angeles Fire Relief Effort supporting music workers impacted by the disasters. Those interested in attending are being asked to donate a minimum of $250, which can be done at the event’s RSVP page. Questions can be directed to wildfirefundraiser@raine.com.
Raine partner Fred Davis says they chose to turn the event into a fundraiser — rather than cancel it altogether — to make the most of the attendees’ “enormously charitable” nature.
“So many in our music community have been devastated by their losses. It hurts,” Davis tells Billboard. “I have grown up in this industry. I have a responsibility to help.”
The Raine event would have been the music and entertainment industry-focused bank’s second Grammy Week cocktail party, but invitations went out one day before the Palisades Fire broke out on Jan. 7. That blaze went on to destroy more than 6,600 buildings and homes across more than 23,000 acres, while 11 people lost their lives. The Eaton Fire, which started later the same day in Altadena, is estimated to have destroyed more than 9,000 structures and killed 17. Both of those fires continue to burn but are nearing full containment, though a newer blaze, the Hughes Fire, exploded on Wednesday (Jan. 22) north of L.A. and prompted widespread evacuations in the Castaic Lake region. It has since burned more than 10,000 acres and is at 24% containment.
Notably, the Raine event is one of the few to remain on the Grammy Week calendar in the wake of the wildfires, with the majority of the major bashes either canceled or postponed. Those that remain, including the annual MusiCares Person of the Year and Clive Davis Galas put on by the Recording Academy, have similarly been re-spun as fundraisers for wildfire relief.
The Grammys themselves, which are still scheduled to be held on Feb. 2 at Crypto.com arena in Downtown Los Angeles, will go forward, according to academy, “with a renewed sense of purpose: raising additional funds to support wildfire relief efforts and honoring the bravery and dedication of first responders who risk their lives to protect ours.”
Live Nation’s Crew Nation nonprofit is stepping up to help music workers impacted by the Los Angeles wildfires.
The Crew Nation Global Relief Fund is committing $1 million to assist performing musicians, live music crew and live music industry workers affected by the recent wildfires in Los Angeles, it was announced Friday (Jan. 17). Live Nation established Crew Nation in 2020 in response to the COVID-19 pandemic that limited work for live event professionals.
Crew Nation has opened applications for grants up to $5,000 for individuals currently employed within the industry who are facing displacement expenses due to mandatory evacuation orders, damage or loss. Those seeking support can apply for Crew Nation Fund grants here.
“L.A. is home to so many who help make live music possible,” said Live Nation Entertainment president/CEO Michael Rapino in a statement, “and Crew Nation is continuing its core mission of helping this hardworking community through unforeseen hardship.”
In addition, Live Nation is supporting impacted employees from its Los Angeles headquarters with direct relief through its Taking Care of Our Own program.
The live industry giant is also working alongside competitor AEG and the Azoff family to produce and promote FireAid, a benefit concert set for Jan. 30 in Los Angeles. The concert will take place at both the Intuit Dome and the neighboring Kia Forum, with performers including Billie Eilish, Lady Gaga, Katy Perry, Jelly Roll, Gwen Stefani, Tate McRae, Rod Stewart, Sting, Stevie Nicks, the Red Hot Chili Peppers, Dave Matthews, John Mayer, Green Day, Gracie Abrams, Joni Mitchell, Lil Baby, P!nk, Stephen Stills and Earth, Wind & Fire, with more to be added.
FireAid will be broadcast at select AMC Theatres and via Apple Music and the Apple TV App, Max, iHeartRadio, KTLA+, Netflix/Tudum, Paramount+, SiriusXM, Spotify, SoundCloud, Veeps, YouTube, and Prime Video and the Amazon Music Channel on Twitch. Viewers will be able to contribute to the fundraiser as they watch.
Since Crew Nation’s 2020 launch, the nonprofit has helped get assistance to more than 16,000 crew globally thanks to a $10 million contribution from Live Nation, supplemented by $8 million from artists, fans and industry partners. Anyone looking to support live music artists and crews through the L.A. wildfires can donate to the organization here.
Jimmy Kimmel Live! resumed its broadcast on Jan. 13, following a brief hiatus caused by the devastating Los Angeles wildfires.
Opening the show, Kimmel delivered a heartfelt monologue reflecting on the tragedy that has displaced thousands and destroyed countless homes, including those of his own colleagues. He lauded the bravery of first responders, firefighters, and volunteers who have stepped up in the city’s time of need.
Amid the heavy atmosphere, Kimmel turned to a figure synonymous with resilience and community, introducing his guest Snoop Dogg as “an icon of Los Angeles and a beacon of positivity.” The legendary rapper, known for his enduring ties to his hometown, didn’t hold back as he spoke candidly about the disaster’s impact and his personal efforts to assist those affected.
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“The family’s good, but I know people I consider family who lost everything,” Snoop shared. “So we did what we do—we came together, pulled our troops together, and made sure they had what they needed.”
Reflecting on the unity he’s seen in the face of disaster, Snoop said, “California, this is like our first time dealing with [wildfires], and the way the world is helping us—that’s the important thing. People aren’t looking at differences; they’re just looking at trying to make a difference.”
Snoop’s reverence for firefighters took center stage, with the rapper calling their work “the toughest job” and emphasizing the often-overlooked heroism they display.
“They don’t get enough credit. They show up, do what’s best, and when it’s over, it’s like they’re forgotten about,” he said. “We need to give them a lot of praise right now. I give them a lot.”
Snoop described his hands-on approach to disaster relief, ensuring donations reach those in need. “A lot of times when we put these donations together, certain people don’t get it,” he explained. “What my team does is go on the ground, make direct connects, and make sure we’re not missing anybody. That’s what we do—it’s about love, man.”
While the conversation centered on the seriousness of the fires, Snoop’s trademark humor provided moments of levity. Reflecting on a false evacuation alert, he recalled, “I got three phones, and they all blew up. I started running, started packing, and then it was like, ‘It’s not real.’ See, now y’all playing games.”
Kimmel seized the moment to ask if the rapper still sets off smoke alarms wherever he goes. Snoop’s response, delivered with a grin, left the audience in stitches: “Not anymore. We have a shower cap technique that we use.” To demonstrate, Snoop stood up and mimed placing a shower cap over a smoke detector, humorously acting out the move by climbing onto Kimmel’s couch, drawing roaring laughter from the audience.
Kimmel quipped, “Especially at this time, that is very bad advice from Snoop Dogg!”
Amid the weighty topics of wildfires and community resilience, Snoop shared an anecdote about meeting Paul McCartney, describing it as a surreal and deeply respectful moment.
“It was about just respect and love,” he said, recalling the encounter. “He really knew who I was musically—that blew my mind. I’m telling him about all the records I like from him, but then he’s telling me about who I am and how he liked me. It’s just appreciation. I call that mutual love, fan appreciation.”
When Kimmel asked if the two had smoked together, Snoop laughed and clarified, “Oh no, no—but I smoked around him.”
Later in the chat, the host praised Snoop’s ongoing community contributions, from organizing relief efforts to his long-standing youth football league, which has helped countless kids achieve their dreams, including NFL stardom.
The Doggfather, ever humble, turned the spotlight back on the collective effort. “There was talks about concerts to raise money for the victims and the people that have lost in this situation,” he said.
“So I think that’s more of the angle that I would be leaning towards—to do a concert and not, you know, be paid, and take my proceeds and the proceeds from the tickets and make sure that the people got something.”
Watch Snoop Dogg’s latest appearance on Jimmy Kimmel Live! here.
Los Angeles County remains in the throes of massive wildfires that began in various locations starting Tuesday (Jan. 7), leading to the displacement of more than 180,000 residents. The wildfires have reportedly destroyed thousands of properties and claimed 10 lives as first responders continue to battle the flames throughout the region.
More and more organizations are stepping up to collect funds and provide resources for those impacted by the disasters. Below is an updating list of ways to help residents, first responders and members of the city’s music community.
Music workers looking for relief can navigate here for additional resources.
Support for Families and Outdoor Workers
Inclusive Action has launched a GoFundMe to provide cash relief for outdoor workers impacted by wildfires. The emergency aid fund will provide $500 in cash assistance directly to “open-air workers,” i.e. people whose jobs require them to work outside, including street vendors, landscapers and recyclers.
This Is About Humanity has launched a fund supporting front and second-line migrant farm workers, day laborers, and other essential workers and their families severely impacted by the recent fires in Los Angeles. Through Jan. 31, TIAH is matching up to $50,000 in donations to provide critical relief, housing support, food assistance and essential resources.
The LAUSD Education Emergency Relief Fund is providing immediate assistance to families and Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD) employees affected by the devastating fires. The fund will offer direct cash assistance and support to families and employees affected by the fires; support teachers and in-class resources for students at impacted schools, ensuring continuity of learning to the greatest extent possible; provide flexible assistance for mental health support; and offer support for other immediate and long-term needs for students, families and teachers.
Support for First Responders
Donations to the LA Fire Department Foundation will go to supporting the heroic firefighters responding in real-time to protect lives, homes and communities.
The CA Fire Foundation is working with local fire agencies and community-based organizations to provide direct financial support to impacted residents as details of the damage emerge. The California Fire Foundation also provides critical support to surviving families of fallen firefighters, firefighters and the communities they serve.
Essential Items for Families in Need
Baby2Baby is providing essential supplies like diapers, clothing, hygiene products and emergency kits to families in need through hundreds of their community partners.
World Central Kitchen is supporting first responders and families impacted by wildfires in the Los Angeles area with sandwiches and warm meals.
Mutual Aid LA Network is continually working to compile an extensive list of organizations offering assistance and accepting donations through this spreadsheet.
Support for Music Professionals
The Recording Academy and MusiCares have launched the Los Angeles Fire Relief Effort to support music professionals impacted by the crisis and made a combined pledge of $1 million to kick off a fundraising effort. You can donate here.
The Sweet Relief Musicians Fund has launched a natural disaster relief fund for music professionals in Los Angeles County and the surrounding areas. Funds raised will go to help those recoup the loss of music-related equipment as well as medical bills related to the fires and other vital living expenses. Head here to donate or fill out an application.
The We Are Moving the Needle Microgrants Wildfire Relief Fund is designed to support “early and mid-career producers, engineers, and creators who have lost studio space or gear” in the wildfires. Those wishing to donate can go here.
The 100 Percenters has launched an LA Wildfire Relief Fundraiser to benefit professional songwriters, producers, artists and music professionals “with verifiable industry contributions” who reside “in wildfire-impacted areas” in Los Angeles County and “can demonstrate wildfire-related loss and financial need.” The fund will provide immediate financial assistance with grants up to $2,500 for housing, transportation and essentials; support rebuilding efforts with grants of up to $10,000 to replace equipment and “restore creative spaces”; and offer mental health support with grants of up to $2,000 for counseling and wellness services. Donate here.
Mid/Long-Term Relief
California Community Foundation‘s Wildlife Recovery Fund focuses on mid-term and long-term recovery efforts for those affected by the fires.
Pasadena Community Foundation‘s Eaton Canyon Fire Recovery and Relief Fund is mobilizing local resources to support resilience and immediate and long-term recovery initiatives in the L.A. County cities of Pasadena and Altadena.
The PLUS1LA Fires Fund will help local nonprofits offering shelter and care to those who have lost their homes, including PPE to prevent smoke inhalation, food, clothing, diapers, formula, hygiene items and mental health support to help those coping with trauma. Over the long term, it will support efforts to help individuals, families, communities and the environment recover from the destruction.
Maná has spoken out about the devastating ongoing wildfires in Los Angeles, asking their fans and colleagues to make donations. “Los Angeles is like hell. There are devastating fires that are affecting the houses…it’s tremendous how the fire is raging,” frontman Fher Olvera said in a video message posted on Thursday (Jan. 9). He continued: […]
Since Tuesday (Jan. 7), ferocious wildfires have been blazing through the greater Los Angeles region, causing extensive damage to life and property, including those of many individuals working in the music business. With nearly 180,000 residents impacted by evacuation orders, at least five dead and thousands of structures damaged or destroyed, music industry organizations are finding ways to provide relief for impacted music workers.
Below, find a list of some of the music organizations offering relief for L.A. industry owrkers. We will continue to update this list as more announcements are made.
(For health alerts, evacuation updates and shelter information, check out L.A. County’s emergency website here.)
MusiCares
The Recording Academy’s philanthropic arm MusiCares say it “can consider emergency funds related to evacuation and relocation costs, instrument replacement/repair, home damage, medical care, mental health services, & other essential living needs,” according to a statement released to social media. Further details have yet to be announced.
Reach out to: musicaresrelief@musicares.org or call 1-800-687-4227
Backline
Mental health non-profit Backline is sharing resources for musicians in Los Angeles via social media and offering its own services. “Know that Backline is here for you and that you are not alone,” the organization wrote on Instagram. “You can reach out to us via our case submission form and a Case Manager will contact you to help you get the long-term support you need. If you need immediate assistance, please reach out to the Disaster Distress Hotline for free 24/7 support by calling 1-800-985-5990.”
Sweet Relief Musicians Fund
Sweet Relief Musicians Fund, the non-profit helping musicians and music industry workers in need, has launched a natural disaster relief fund for those in Los Angeles County and the surrounding areas. Applications are also open for those seeking relief, with funds raised going toward loss of music-related equipment, medical bills related to the fires and other vital living expenses.
Head here to donate or fill out an application.
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