The 67th Grammys will proceed on February 2 at Crypto.com Arena, raising funds for LA wildfire relief and honoring first responders. Despite widespread destruction, the ceremony highlights resilience and artistry, with donations surpassing $2 million for affected communities.
The Grammys, scheduled for February 2, will "proceed as planned" despite the devastating wildfires ravaging Los Angeles, the Recording Academy announced Monday.
In a letter to Academy members, organizers confirmed that the 67th annual music awards gala will take place at the Crypto.com Arena in downtown Los Angeles "in close coordination with local authorities to ensure public safety and responsible use of area resources."
"This year's show will carry a renewed sense of purpose: raising additional funds to support wildfire relief efforts and honoring the bravery and dedication of first responders who risk their lives to protect ours," said Academy head Harvey Mason Jr., co-signed by Board of Trustees chair Tammy Hurt.
"The Grammys will not only honor the artistry and achievements of our music community but also serve as a platform to amplify the spirit of resilience that defines this great city of Los Angeles," they added.
The ceremony, broadcast live on CBS, features top nominees such as Beyoncé, Taylor Swift, Billie Eilish, and Kendrick Lamar.
Nearly a week after the fires began, the toll is staggering: at least 24 people have died, tens of thousands are displaced, and vast areas of Southern California are in ruins. Extreme winds fueled flames, crippling the city and destroying entire communities.
In response, the Recording Academy and its philanthropic arm MusiCares launched a relief effort, initially donating $1 million to aid music industry workers affected by the fires. To date, more than $2 million in emergency aid has been distributed thanks to additional donations.
Separately, LiveNation, AEG Presents, and the Azoff Company announced a FIREAID benefit concert on January 30 at the Intuit Dome in Inglewood. Proceeds will go to a dedicated nonprofit focused on rebuilding infrastructure, supporting displaced families, and advancing fire prevention strategies to better prepare Los Angeles for future emergencies.
Meanwhile, the entertainment industry is adapting to the crisis as awards season begins. The Oscars have canceled their nominees’ luncheon and moved their nominations announcement online to avoid strain on the city’s resources.
With AFP
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