The Recording Academy and MusiCares have started a Los Angeles Fire Relief Fund with a $1 million pledge to help those affected by the ongoing wildfires in the LA area. This effort will support music professionals who have been impacted by the fires.
Harvey Mason Jr., the CEO of both the Recording Academy and MusiCares, expressed the organization’s sadness over the devastation in Los Angeles, saying, “The entire Grammy family is shocked and heartbroken by what’s happening in LA. The music community is hurting, but we will come together to support one another. Our mission is to help people in the music industry, and we hope others in the industry will join us in this effort.”
MusiCares’ executive director, Laura Segura, emphasized that MusiCares is committed to helping music professionals in times of crisis. She encouraged the music community to donate to support those in need. MusiCares can offer immediate help for those displaced by the fires and provide longer-term support as the situation unfolds.
As of Thursday, officials reported that over 1,000 homes were destroyed in the Palisades fire, with another 1,000 homes lost in the Eaton fire. Both areas are home to many musicians, producers, and other industry professionals, and many have lost their homes, recording studios, and equipment.
Music professionals who qualify for financial aid from MusiCares include producers, live crew, tour bus drivers, managers, agents, A&R staff, makeup artists, costume designers, and others whose work depends on music. To apply for help, applicants must show proof of at least five years of work in the music industry or six commercially released recordings, videos, or singles.
Anyone in need of assistance can contact MusiCares directly at [email protected] or call 1-800-687-4227.
