The glitz and glamour of the Grammy Awards have been overshadowed by the devastating wildfires sweeping through Los Angeles.
Major music labels, including Universal Music Group (UMG) and Sony Music, have cancelled their famous Grammy afterparties, calling it inappropriate to celebrate while the city battles such a crisis.
UMG, the first to announce the cancellation, pledged to redirect funds for their events toward supporting wildfire victims.
Following their lead, Sony Music also called off all Grammy-related festivities, donating $5 million to emergency relief efforts.
Warner Music Group and BMG joined in, with Warner pledging $1 million to support local fire relief organisations and first responders.
The 67th Annual Grammy Awards will still hold as planned on Sunday, February 2, at the Crypto.com Arena.
However, the Recording Academy has revised Grammy Week activities, focusing on raising funds for those affected by the disaster.
“This is our home. It’s been a tough week, but we want this year’s show to raise awareness and honour the firefighters risking their lives to protect us.”Harvey Mason Jr., CEO of the Recording Academy, explained the decision.
Meanwhile, artists and organisations are stepping up.
Beyoncé’s BeyGOOD Foundation has pledged $2.5 million to help rebuild communities, while Live Nation is organising a benefit concert, FireAid, with performances by stars like Billie Eilish, Lady Gaga, and Katy Perry.
