Matt Helders, drummer for the Arctic Monkeys, has joined personalized video site Cameo to raise money for those affected by the LA wildfires. The Sheffield-born rocker announced his fundraising efforts on his Instagram, paying tribute to Los Angeles: “LA is a place I’ve called home for the past 13 years. It’s where my daughter was born and is raised, it’s where she goes to school, and where we are grateful to be.
“Amanda [Blank] and I are doing everything we can personally and privately to help, but in order to do more and shed some light on the organisations doing so much to help, I’m gonna do a limited run on @cameo and donate all proceeds to @daylaborernetwork a community that inspires me and I admire very much.”
He shared a link to his Cameo page underneath, which can be accessed here. Cameo is a website that allows fans to request personalized videos of their favourite celebrities for a price – other stars on the platform include Ne-Yo, Flava Flav, Tommy Lee and Dionne Warwick.
The wildfires, which began last Tuesday (January 7), are the most destructive LA has ever seen. There have been 24 confirmed deaths, and 180,000 residents have been evacuated as 12,000 buildings have been destroyed by the blazes. The fires are reported to be the costliest in US history, with over $200 billion worth of damage estimated.
Some notable musicians have lost their homes, including Jhene Aiko, Madlib, Harry Mack, Iron Maiden guitarist Adam Smith, Harry Mack and Diane Warren.
A few prominent artists have donated to relief efforts for the fires. Beyonce has announced that BeyGOOD, the singer’s non-profit charity, has donated $2.5 million to aid relief efforts and assist those impacted by the fires. Metallica have also announced that they have donated $500,000 to relief efforts, through their All Within My Hands Foundation.
Some music companies have also taken action to aid charities and organizations dealing with the fires and their fallout. Amazon has pledged $10 million to various funds and charities. Sony has provided a $5 million donation to organizations supporting first responders, community relief and rebuilding efforts.
Musical instrument retailer Guitar Center has also announced a new program to help musicians affected by the wildfires, providing local musicians special one-time grants to replace their destroyed instruments and gear.
Provided by Digital Music News, here is a list of organizations providing relief for LA musicians.
