Nirvana's surviving members took center stage at the FireAid benefit concert on January 30, 2025, at the Kia Forum, surprising fans with their first performance together since 2020. The concert aimed at raising funds for victims of the devastating California wildfires prominently featured Dave Grohl, Krist Novoselic, and Pat Smear, who were joined by notable guest performers, including St. Vincent, Joan Jett, Kim Gordon, and Grohl's daughter, Violet.
The evening kicked off with St. Vincent performing Nirvana's classic "Breed," showcasing her distinctive vocal style and energy. Following her was Kim Gordon, known for her time as the bassist and vocalist for Sonic Youth, who led the band with "School." Joan Jett, beloved rock icon and frequent collaborator with the surviving Nirvana members, delivered her powerful rendition of "Territorial Pissings." The set concluded on an emotional note with Violet Grohl taking the spotlight for "All Apologies," bringing the performance full circle with her familial connection to the legendary band.
The FireAid concert was held concurrently at the Kia Forum and Intuit Dome, featuring multiple high-profile artists, including Lady Gaga, Rod Stewart, and Billie Eilish, among many others. The event was organized to support those affected by the wildfires, which resulted in significant destruction and loss, claiming at least 29 lives and destroying thousands of homes.
Billie Eilish, as part of her performance at the venue, joined Green Day for the evening's opening song, "Last Night on Earth," later performing her acoustic set at the Intuit Dome where the concert was simultaneously taking place. Other acts, such as the Red Hot Chili Peppers and Stevie Wonder, added to the lineup, contributing to the star-studded event.
During the concert, actor Billy Crystal welcomed attendees and shared his personal experiences of losing his home to the fires, emphasizing the necessity of community support. Amid the performances, he highlighted the contributions of various artists, including U2's generous donation of $1 million and Paris Hilton contributing $100,000 to relief efforts.
Grohl and Novoselic’s collaboration with their guest artists for this performance mirrored their remarkable induction at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame back in 2014, where they had similarly been accompanied by these female vocalists. This reunion brought back fond memories for fans, highlighting the enduring legacy of Nirvana's music and its impact on multiple generations.
While delivering the band's well-loved tracks, the surviving members were visibly immersed in the experience, drawing applause and cheers from the audience. The intensity of the moment was palpable, as Grohl, who had not performed publicly since the past September, took solace in the supportive atmosphere shared with fellow musicians and fans alike.
Nirvana's last concert featuring Kurt Cobain occurred on March 1, 1994. This reunion marks another chapter for the surviving members as they creatively engage with the music community and charitable efforts through benefit performances such as FireAid.
All proceeds raised from the FireAid concert are set to be distributed under the guidance of the Annenberg Foundation, directing efforts to both immediate relief and long-term strategies to prevent future fires threatening Southern California. This event not only celebrated music and artistry but also reinforced the importance of community solidarity during challenging times.
The highlight of the evening may well have been the reunion of the trio who played such pivotal roles within Nirvana, and their special connection to the music of their late frontman, Kurt Cobain. This poignant moment served as both tribute and celebration allowing fans, both old and new, to reflect on the band's enduring influence.
Indeed, the FireAid concert was more than just another lineup of artists; it was about rebuilding hope, community resilience, and the power of music to unite us even amid tragedy. The emotional investment and creativity displayed resonate, ensuring Nirvana's legacy lives on through performances like this one.
This remarkable event demonstrated the collective power of artists rallying for communal support and showcased the unexpected yet welcomed return of Nirvana’s surviving members, who continue to inspire through their music and commitment to humanitarian causes.