LA CHECK IN: A Musical Response to Los Angeles Wildfires
In a remarkable convergence of music and philanthropy, the Annenberg Foundation has announced a special livestream benefit, LA CHECK IN, to help those affected by the devastating wildfires in Los Angeles. Scheduled for January 16th at 6 P.M. Pacific Time, the event features notable global music figures including will.i.am, D-Nice, DJ Hed, and actor-philanthropist Etienne Maurice of WalkGood LA, alongside event partner the i.am Angel Foundation.
A New Era of Community Through Music
LA CHECK IN draws inspiration from the original Club Quarantine, a virtual gathering created by D-Nice during the COVID-19 pandemic. This event seeks to foster community and connection among residents impacted by the recent fires, helping to alleviate feelings of isolation and displacement. Streaming live from will.i.am’s FYI Campus, the event can be viewed on both Instagram and YouTube.
The livestream offers a blend of curated music sets from D-Nice and DJ Hed, timely updates on support resources for wildfire victims, and uplifting stories meant to inspire hope. The event will also allow viewers to pledge funds towards recovery efforts for the Los Angeles community, specifically focusing on:
- First responders, tirelessly working on the front lines of the crisis,
- Evacuees, including families, seniors, and shelters for those already experiencing homelessness,
- Displaced workers, who face even greater challenges in the wake of the wildfires.
Music with a Purpose
“These fires ravaged Los Angeles and shocked communities everywhere with their rapid spread and vast devastation,” stated Wallis Annenberg, Chairman of the Board, President and CEO of the Annenberg Foundation. She emphasized the organization’s commitment to catalyzing relief in catastrophic situations, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to support the community through LA CHECK IN.
Grammy Award-winning musician will.i.am also commented on the urgent need for support: “Families and students across the city urgently need our support as many lives have been disrupted, including losing everything in the fires.” His involvement reflects not only his musical influence but also a deep-rooted commitment to philanthropy through his i.am Angel Foundation, which provides STEM education to over 14,000 disadvantaged youth in the Los Angeles area.
D-Nice shared his sentiments about the power of music in bringing communities together, remarking, “Club Quarantine was a way for people to find community all over the world through love of music and culture.” He anticipates that LA CHECK IN will tap into the rich talent of Los Angeles, reinforcing resilience through music and community connection.
DJ Hed added a poignant perspective, stating, “When disaster strikes it reminds us that despite our differences, we’re all in this together.” He emphasized the event’s goal to shine a light amid darkness and assist as many people as possible during this difficult time.
Engagement and Support Opportunities
As part of the livestream, LA CHECK IN will provide a platform for audience engagement, presenting various ways for viewers to contribute financially to wildfire recovery efforts. The Annenberg Foundation has also committed to providing grants to nonprofits that support the populations most affected by the fires.
For those interested in tuning in, the event will be streamed live on D-Nice’s Instagram account and will.i.am’s YouTube channel, making it accessible to a broad audience.
A Broader Impact on Community Resilience
The significance of LA CHECK IN transcends mere entertainment; it serves as a critical reminder of the role of the arts in healing and supporting communities during crises. By leveraging their platforms, these artists aim to mobilize resources, foster connection, and bring hope to those affected by these tragic events.
In such times of loss, the music industry’s ability to unite and uplift offers a powerful testament to community resilience and solidarity, extending beyond the stage and into the hearts and lives of individuals and families in need.
As this event unfolds, it holds the potential to inspire similar initiatives across the country, highlighting the importance of collective action in addressing communal challenges. LA CHECK IN not only aims to support immediate recovery efforts but also seeks to cultivate a long-lasting spirit of togetherness and hope among those resonating with the message of its creators.
Viewers can watch and participate in this impactful event on platforms such as Instagram and YouTube.
