Live Nation and Crew Nation Pledge $1 Million to Support LA Music Community Affected by Wildfires
Live Nation and Crew Nation have made a significant commitment by pledging $1 million (approximately £813,355) to support individuals in the music industry impacted by the recent wildfires in Los Angeles.
The wildfires, which began on January 7, have severely affected the community, forcing over 150,000 residents to evacuate their homes. Tragically, reports indicate 27 confirmed deaths and more than 20 individuals are still missing.
Support for Musicians and Crew
In response to the crisis, the Crew Nation Global Relief Fund will distribute the pledged funds to assist performing musicians, live music crew members, and industry workers facing hardships due to the wildfires.
Crew Nation was established by Live Nation Entertainment in 2020, during the pandemic that halted live music events. Over the past five years, it has provided aid to more than 16,000 crew members experiencing unforeseen challenges. To date, Live Nation has contributed $10 million (£8.13 million) to this cause, while another $8 million has been raised from artists, fans, and other industry partners.
Financial Assistance Grants Available
The latest initiative includes financial grants aimed at individuals in the industry facing expenses due to evacuations, property damage, or losses caused by the fires. Applicants can receive grants of up to $5,000 (£4,066).
“L.A. is home to so many who help make live music possible,” said Michael Rapino, President and CEO of Live Nation Entertainment. “Crew Nation is continuing its core mission of helping this hardworking community through unforeseen hardship.” Those wishing to apply for the Crew Nation Fund grants can find more information on their website.
Additional Support Measures by Live Nation
Beyond Crew Nation, Live Nation is also taking direct action to assist its employees based in LA through its Taking Care Of Our Own program. Furthermore, the company is promoting an upcoming benefit concert, FireAid, scheduled for next Thursday (January 30). The event aims to raise funds for community rebuilding and fire prevention initiatives.
Many well-known artists will participate in the FireAid concert, including Olivia Rodrigo, Billie Eilish, Stevie Nicks, and Green Day, among others.
Community Efforts Extend Beyond Live Nation
Significant contributions from other music industry figures have also emerged in support of the affected communities. For example, Beyoncé's BeyGOOD foundation has donated $2.5 million for relief efforts, while Paris Hilton pledged $100,000 and promised to match donations up to that amount.
Additionally, musician Dave Grohl recently celebrated his birthday by preparing meals for fire-impacted families, and the Canadian metal band Spiritbox has initiated a charity raffle for victims of the fires.
Moreover, American-Mexican band Fuerza Regida has taken direct action by renting an entire hotel for a week to accommodate 50 displaced families. Members of the LA music community have expressed their deep concern about the extensive impact of the wildfires on venues, studios, and artists.
support, music, community