TRANSCRIPT
Californian punk rockers Green Day opened the FireAid benefit concert, joined by pop star Billie Eilish in a surprise duet.
'(music) "Greenday everybody!" "Billie Eilish" "Billie Joe!" (laughs)'
They are singing about love, hope, and gratitude in the face of immense challenges.
Green Day band member Billie Joe, taking the moment to acknowledge a city in pain.
“We are still alive. This is California and we are all in this together. From the bottom of our hearts we love you Los Angeles and we got your back, no matter what.”
It was a history-making line-up, with Stevie Nicks, No Doubt, Rod Stewart, John Mayer and many other icons of the music industry each taking their time on stage, united in their effort.
Actor and comedian Billy Crystal, who lost his family home of 46 years in the fires in recent weeks, is one of many recognising the efforts of firefighters, police and paramedics.
“We're here together to thank them, and all those who run towards danger, while we run towards shelter and safety" (applause for firefighters) When we were finally able to get back to the Palisades which we had lived in for 46 years, I stepped on to the ground and fell to my knees and cried, I had not cried like that since I was 15 and my father had just died."
'Alannis Morisette singing "Thank you"'
Nostalgic hits were in high supply, from songs by singer Alanis Morisette, to Anderson Paak, who teamed up with Dr Dre and Sheila E for a rendition of the 1995 Tupac anthem, "California Love".
'(music) this one is for you Los Angeles! Yeah. Come on let's sing this"'
Popstar Pink, whose real name is Alicia Moore, was emotional as she spoke to the audience.
The singer has donated millions of dollars to disaster relief efforts in the past, including half a million dollars to Australian bushfire recovery efforts after record bushfires in New South Wales and Victoria in 2020.
“If you’re hurting, I’m hurting with you. I am going to keep my feet on the ground tonight. I’m going to sing a couple of songs that bring me comfort and I hope they do the same for you all.”
There were two venues for the fundraising concert in Los Angeles, with a shared mood; solidarity for the residents of L-A who have lost so much in a short time.
"Fireaid 2025! Are you looking at me?"
The funds raised by the event are destined for short-term relief efforts, with plans to rebuild communities that have been all but destroyed by fire.
Participants also hope the concert will contribute to long-term initiatives aimed at preventing future fire disasters in southern California.
