In the face of devastation from recent wildfires, Los Angeles experienced a musical outpouring of support, as the FireAid benefit concert brought together some of the biggest names in music. The concert, which was held simultaneously at the newly opened Intuit Dome and the Kia Forum in Inglewood, California, was organized to raise funds for those affected by the wildfires that ravaged the area earlier this month.
According to the article “2025 Grammys will celebrate music but also raise money for LA fire relief” from The Guardian, FireAid was not just a celebration of music, but a moment of solidarity for the people of Los Angeles. With a star-studded lineup that included artists like Joni Mitchell, Peso Pluma, Green Day, Billie Eilish, and U2, the event served as a reminder that in times of crisis, the power of music can bring healing and hope. The event’s message was clear: Los Angeles, like the rest of the world, was coming together to support those affected by the fires.
A Somber Start and a Personal Touch
Unlike the typical red carpet spectacle, the atmosphere before the concert reflected the seriousness of the cause. The usual buzz of excitement was muted, with photographers checking their lenses in an almost reverent silence. As noted in the article, “the usual pre-concert buzz of boisterous mingling and drink sipping was missing,” signaling that this was not just any concert, but a solemn occasion focused on supporting the community.
Billy Crystal, a perennial master of ceremonies, took to the stage with a personal message. Missing his usual black-tie attire, Crystal instead wore a hoodie and knit cap—symbolizing the humility and loss he had experienced. “This young girl came up to me, and said she understood my pain because she had lost TikTok for a day,” Crystal remarked, as he compared the recent tragedy to the loss of his father. “With your help around the country and here in the room, we’ll laugh again, we’re gonna listen to music again, and we will be OK” (The Guardian, 2025).
A Night of Diverse Music and Solidarity
The FireAid concert was as diverse in its musical offerings as it was in its message of unity. From rock to pop to hip-hop, the evening’s performances spanned generations and genres, with an unmistakable sense of shared purpose. Alanis Morissette, Earth, Wind & Fire, Pink, and Graham Nash, among others, performed in support of the fire relief efforts, celebrating both the resilience of Los Angeles and the artists’ deep connections to the city.
Dr. Dre and Anderson .Paak brought hip-hop to the stage, joined by Sheila E for a performance of “California Love.” And just as the night seemed to bring together every possible facet of California’s musical landscape, Katy Perry performed “California Gurls” and “Rise,” drawing cheers from the crowd as they sang along to the songs that have become anthems of hope for many (The Guardian, 2025).
In keeping with the evening’s themes of resilience and strength, the concert featured performances by No Doubt, the Red Hot Chili Peppers, and other iconic acts. As the article notes, “Flea performed in nothing but underwear,” a testament to the carefree spirit that permeated the event despite the weight of the occasion (The Guardian, 2025).
A Final Act of Hope
As the night drew to a close, the audience was visibly fatigued, but a special performance by Lady Gaga reignited their spirits. Sitting at the piano, Gaga performed “Shallow” and “Always Remember Us This Way,” two songs from her film A Star Is Born. The article highlights her emotional message, stating, “she crafted [a new song] ‘just for tonight,’” a poignant offering to the victims of the wildfires (The Guardian, 2025).
Though the concert ended in the early hours, the message of hope and solidarity remained. As the world watched, the spirit of community and charity transcended the music itself, reminding us that, regardless of the challenges we face, we are called to unite and support one another. The FireAid concert demonstrated the power of music to heal and uplift, showing that in times of crisis, we can find strength in one another.
By the end of the night, the exact funds raised were not disclosed, but the importance of the event was clear. As The Guardian noted, FireAid “proved the power of music and how a just cause can bring together polar opposites” (2025). In times of tragedy, may we all find ways to unite, support, and heal—through music, through faith, and through community.