L.A. Wildfires: Support for Music Industry Workers Affected by the Crisis
This week, devastating wildfires have swept through the Los Angeles area, leaving thousands displaced and causing significant damage to homes, businesses, and communities. Among those impacted are countless individuals working in the music industry, from musicians and producers to studio staff and support teams. With at least 180,000 residents under evacuation orders and widespread property loss, the music community has rallied to provide relief.
Here’s a roundup of organizations offering assistance to music professionals during this crisis:
MusiCares
MusiCares, the philanthropic arm of the Recording Academy, is extending financial support to music professionals affected by the fires. This includes $1,500 in disaster relief and grocery assistance, as well as aid for those with severe losses, such as damaged homes or studio equipment. Music professionals with five years of industry experience or credits on six commercially released recordings can apply for support. To request support from MusiCares, please contact musicaresrelief@musicares.org.
Entertainment Community Fund
The Entertainment Community Fund is providing emergency financial assistance for performing arts and entertainment professionals. Relief covers essential expenses like housing and healthcare, with specific support available for those affected by the wildfires.
On its website, the fund mentions that applicants affected by the L.A. wildfires will be required “to upload a list of documents. If you do not have access to these documents, upload a blank file. Once we receive the application, we will work with you to complete it.” You can apply for relief here.
Sweet Relief Musicians Fund
Sweet Relief has launched a natural disaster fund to help music workers impacted by the fires. Assistance is available for expenses related to lost equipment, medical bills, and other critical needs.
Visit here to donate or submit an application.
We Are Moving the Needle Microgrants
This initiative supports producers, engineers, and other creators who lost studio spaces or gear. Early and mid-career professionals are encouraged to apply for microgrants to replace damaged equipment.
Those interested in applying or donating can go here.
Backline
Backline, a mental health nonprofit, is providing resources for musicians in crisis. The organization connects individuals with case managers to offer long-term support and encourages those in immediate need to contact the Disaster Distress Hotline.
For immediate assistance, please contact the Disaster Distress Hotline at 1-800-985-5990 for free 24/7 support.
Guitar Center Music Foundation
Musicians who lost instruments in the fires can apply for one-time grants through the Guitar Center Music Foundation. Applications are open until February 28.
To apply, visit the link here.
Good Boy Records
In a gesture of solidarity, Good Boy Records has opened its Studio City recording space to musicians who have lost their workspaces. Artists can book time through the studio’s public calendar.
Click here to reserve your slot.
Warner Music Social Justice Fund
The Warner Music Group/Blavatnik Family Foundation Social Justice Fund has pledged $1 million to relief efforts. Funds will support rebuilding and provide aid to first responders, displaced residents, and music professionals in need.
Extending Our Thoughts
At Rareform Audio, we are deeply saddened by the devastation caused by these fires. Our hearts go out to all affected, especially our friends and colleagues in the music community. Los Angeles has long been a cornerstone of creativity, and we stand in solidarity with those impacted by this crisis.
To anyone in the music industry needing assistance, please take advantage of these resources.
Stay safe, Los Angeles!
Let’s Collaborate!
Need help building the tone for your production? Hit us up – the Rareform Audio team would love to help you create the perfect soundtrack that speaks to your audience and enhances the power of your visual storytelling to new heights!
Rareform Highlights
Join our Spotify Playlist and vibe with us! Featuring an array of tunes our team has been listening to.
