FireAid Brings Music Legends and Stories of Loss Together for LA Wildfire Relief
INGLEWOOD, California – Music's biggest stars, first responders, and wildfire survivors came together for FireAid, a massive benefit concert on Thursday aimed at raising funds for Los Angeles-area wildfire relief efforts.
The event, held across two venues—the Kia Forum and Intuit Dome, delivered a six-hour spectacle of performances and heartfelt storytelling. Green Day and Billie Eilish kicked off the night, setting the tone for a star-studded evening filled with surprises, emotional tributes, and a shared commitment to rebuilding communities.
Unforgettable Performances and Surprise Collaborations
One of the most talked-about moments of the night was a Nirvana reunion, featuring St. Vincent, Kim Gordon, and Joan Jett filling in for the late Kurt Cobain, performing "Breed," "School," and "Territorial Pissings." Dave Grohl’s daughter, Violet Grohl, later joined them for "All Apologies."
Lady Gaga, the show’s closer, delivered a powerful set featuring "Shallow" and "Always Remember Us This Way" before debuting a brand-new song, "Time Is a Healer," written with her fiancé, businessman Michael Polansky.
Red Hot Chili Peppers brought their signature California energy, with Flea doing a handstand on stage before launching into hits like "Dani California" and "Under the Bridge."
Hip-hop legend Dr. Dre made a surprise appearance, performing "Still D.R.E." with Anderson .Paak and Sheila E., followed by a crowd-energizing rendition of "California Love."
Other major acts included:
- Joni Mitchell delivering a moving performance of "Both Sides Now"
- No Doubt, reunited for a set featuring "I'm Just a Girl," "Don't Speak," and "Spiderwebs"
- Katy Perry, backed by the Pasadena Chorale, performing "Rise," "Roar," and "California Gurls"
- Billie Eilish and Finneas, performing acoustic versions of "Wildflower," "The Greatest," and "Birds of a Feather."
A Night of Giving and Reflection
Throughout the evening, survivors shared stories of loss and resilience, highlighting the impact of the devastating wildfires. Actor Billy Crystal, who lost his home in Pacific Palisades, opened the show, joking, "Our goal tonight is to spend more money than the Dodgers did on free agents."
The Williams family, who lost four homes in Altadena, introduced folk rock band Dawes, whose members were personally affected by the Eaton Fire.
Millions Raised for Relief Efforts
FireAid encouraged attendees and viewers to donate via FireAidLA.org, with Los Angeles Clippers owner Steve Ballmer and his wife Connie pledging to match all donations made during the live broadcast—effectively doubling contributions.
U2 kicked off the night’s fundraising efforts with a $1 million donation, which, thanks to the Ballmers' pledge, was immediately doubled.
All proceeds from FireAid will be distributed through the Annenberg Foundation to assist those affected by the wildfires, ensuring direct relief to impacted families and communities.
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