ENTERTAINMENT
Stars Come Together for a Night of Music and Fundraising
Mon Feb 03 2025
The city of Los Angeles might have been reeling from devastating wildfires. But that didn't stop the music industry from coming together for a night of celebration and fundraising. Usually, this event is a glamorous affair with a red carpet and plenty of press. But this year, it was toned down a bit. MusiCares was at the centre of this year's gathering, raising money for those affected by the fires. After all, the music industry is all about community, and this was a chance to show that.
The night kicked off with a powerhouse performance by a group of rock legends. Chris and Nick Robinson from the Black Crowes, Andrew Watt, Chad Smith from the Red Hot Chili Peppers, and Rob Trujillo from Metallica took the stage. They opened the night with a bang, performing "War Pigs" by Black Sabbath. It was electric!
Then, Recording Academy CEO Harvey Mason Jr. took the stage, speaking about the tough decision to go ahead with the event amid the wildfires. "When the fires started, there were lots of questions about whether the Grammys should go on, Mason said. But they decided to move forward, using the platform to raise awareness and support first responders. "It was not an easy decision, but we knew we could use this platform to raise awareness and support first responders. "
Jimmy Kimmel, the host for the night, paid tribute to first responders and the industry's response to the tragedy. "FireAid was a great event and raised $60 million and tonight we’re going to raise even more. " He also praised Clive Davis, calling him a "living legend" who still has "the fire" and is competitive.
Davis took the spotlight next, proving he's still got his sense of humor despite the circumstances. "Jimmy, thank you for that great introduction, which was occasionally funny, " Davis said. He also announced a six-figure donation to the cause. The show was a mix of veterans and newcomers. Michael Bublé paid tribute to the late Quincy Jones with a version of "Fly Me to the Moon. " Barry Manilow, who performed at the very first gala 50 years ago, took the stage with "Mandy" and "Once Before I Go. " Davis played a clip from that night, showing the two men in their younger years.
The rest of the night was a parade of Grammy-winning and nominated performers. Joni Mitchell, clad in a beret and sunglasses, had the ballroom rapt with attention. She delivered her set from a throne-like chair, glowing throughout and looking giddy with a wide smile when both songs "Both Sides Now" and "Summertime" finished. She also brought a piece of art she painted nearly two decades ago featuring Elton John.
Doechii, Shaboozey, Samara Joy, Benson Boone, and Teddy Swims all delivered standout performances. Post Malone, wet from a spilled cocktail, took the stage and delivered "Sunflower. " And this night was all about celebrating the music community and raising money for a good cause.
Gayle King, Jack Antonoff and wife Margaret Qualley, Gladys Knight, Bill Maher, Ari Melber, Chazz Palminteri and more were also praised by Davis.
The night ended with a tribute to Whitney Houston, who Davis said loved the event. Yolanda Adams closed the show with a rendition of Houston's iconic hit "I Will Always Love You. " Adams said, "As Clive said,
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