On Thursday, January 30, 2025, Los Angeles bore witness to the FireAid benefit concert, showcasing nearly 30 music superstars uniting for the noble cause of raising funds for communities devastated by recent wildfires across California. The star-studded event, which emphasized the resilience and spirit of Angelenos, was strategically hosted at two prominent locations: the Kia Forum and the newly minted Intuit Dome, located merely one mile apart.
The concert was marked by touching performances and heartfelt tributes to those affected by the fires, which have displaced countless families and destroyed homes. Among the standout moments was the rare public appearance of Joni Mitchell, who at 81, graced the stage seated on what looked like a golden throne as she sang her iconic ballad "Both Sides, Now". Her performance instantly drew tears from the audience, as her poignant lyrics echoed the emotional toll the wildfires have taken on the community.
Kickstarting the show was the dynamic duo of Billie Eilish and Green Day, who collaborated on stage to perform “Last Night on Earth.” Eilish, who has personal ties to the area impacted by the fires, later expressed her love for Los Angeles, stating, "It feels so hopeful and good in here. It’s a really scary time. L.A. is my favorite place in the world and my only home." The concert continued with engaging performances from many top acts, including P!nk, Anderson .Paak, and Lady Gaga.
Inside the Kia Forum, emotions ran high as the reports and performances alike highlighted the devastating realities faced by many Angelenos. Actor and comedian Billy Crystal shared his harrowing experience of fleeing from the flames of the Pacific Palisades fire, and how he later returned to the wreckage of his home. Crystal recounted the moment he discovered among the ashes, the only surviving artifact being a rock etched with the word “laughter.” “I had not cried like this since I was 15 years old,” he shared, as the audience fell silent, reflecting on both his loss and the resilience of the human spirit.
The presence of high-profile personalities amplified the event's significance, with former Vice President Kamala Harris and her husband Doug Emhoff spotted among the attendees. Demonstrations of support and solidarity filled the air as concertgoers and artists alike expressed their hopes for recovery and rebuilding.
FireAid has already gained attention for its impressive fundraising potential, reportedly raising over $60 million through ticket sales and corporate sponsorships before the event even started. The concert showcased the might of community spirit, with fundraising plans directed by the Annenberg Foundation for both immediate relief efforts and long-term community recovery strategies.
The performances weren’t without lighter moments, as attendees were treated to upbeat songs celebrating California’s spirit. Katy Perry amped up the audience with “California Gurls,” embracing her home state with fervor. Throughout the night, performances flowed seamlessly from classic rock hits to contemporary pop, each act uniquely representing the cultural fabric of Los Angeles.
Among the evening's highlights, P!nk wowed the audience with her powerful renditions of Led Zeppelin's classics, and Stephen Stills and Graham Nash surprised the crowd by reuniting for the first time in a decade. The lineup was not only reflective of the city’s musical history but also served as tributes to the firefighters and first responders who heroically battled the wildfires.
The evening drew to a close with Lady Gaga, who dedicated her new song "Time Is A Healer" to those impacted by the wildfires. "During these times, I feel like people come together and we see how much we need each other. And I want to always keep moving forward," she said, charming the audience with her sincerity and passion.
Throughout the event, the heavy theme of loss was balanced by the overwhelming sense of hope and unity present among the stars and the Los Angeles community. The concert highlighted shared experiences, heartfelt stories, and most critically, the commitment to rise above adversity.
FireAid not only raised significant funds for immediate relief but also ignited communal solidarity, reminding everyone involved of the powerful role music plays during difficult times. This extraordinary night dedicated to healing and rebuilding will resonate deeply among Angelenos long after the last note has faded.