Billie Eilish and Green Day raise funds for wildfire victims

In response to devastating wildfires that swept through Southern California in January 2025, a benefit concert called FireAid was organized to support affected communities. The event took place across two venues in Inglewood, California, with performances starting at the Kia Forum at 6:00 PM PST and the Intuit Dome at 7:30 PM PST. Many top artists, including Billie Eilish, Lady Gaga, Olivia Rodrigo, and Green Day, participated to raise funds for short-term relief efforts and long-term initiatives aimed at preventing future disasters. The concert highlighted the severe impact of the wildfires, which led to the loss of 29 lives and the destruction of thousands of homes and businesses. A notable feature of the event was the matching donation pledge by Steve Ballmer, owner of the Los Angeles Clippers, who committed to matching all contributions made during the live broadcast of FireAid. This significant support amplified the impact of the donations collected, effectively doubling the proceeds. Among the early contributions, U2 pledged $1 million, which was also matched by Ballmer and his wife, Connie. The inclusion of personal stories from survivors and first responders during the concert helped convey the urgent need for assistance in the aftermath of the fires. Comedian and actor Billy Crystal served as one of the hosts, sharing his own experience of losing his home in the fires, and reminding the audience of the resilience and support within the community. The concert was strategically broadcast across multiple platforms, including Apple Music and Netflix, reaching a wide audience and allowing even those who could not attend to contribute to the cause. The spread of the event's message was as crucial as the performances, drawing attention to the ongoing recovery efforts needed for those affected by the recent disasters. In addition to the musical performances, FireAid served as a platform for stories from those impacted by the wildfires. Celebrities and community members shared their experiences while honoring those who bravely fought the fires that ravaged the area. The emotional tone of the concert resonated deeply with attendees, who were collectively reminded of their shared humanity in the face of tragedy. This momentous event not only aimed to gather immediate financial support but also sought to foster a sense of community and solidarity as those affected begin to rebuild their lives.