MUSICARES LAUNCHES COVID-19 FUND

The Recording Academy and MusiCares have established the COVID-19 Relief Fund to aid people in the music industry affected by the disease and subsequent cancellation of multiple music events. The Academy is also leading a call for government action for the industry and planning online concerts.

To establish the fund, both the Recording Academy and MusiCares have contributed an initial donation of $1m each. Additionally, all Recording Academy Chapters have committed to fundraising in their local communities. Further updates and announcements will be made in the coming days.

"Event cancellations are at unprecedented levels and the situation therefore requires an unprecedented response,” Chair and Interim CEO of the Recording Academy Harvey Mason Jr. said. “Many people in the industry are now in crisis, not knowing what the future holds or having to deal with dire commercial realities. We are asking the entire industry to stand with us to support the musicians, artists and professionals who are the bedrock and the future of our music community."

To assist with the effort, click here.

MusiCares Chair Steve Boom added, “we are asking the entire music community including labels, streaming services, and anyone who is able to join us in this important effort. We're all in when the good times roll, and it’s important that we're all in when times are tough, too."

Beyond the fund, the Academy is urging Congress to include financial support to music creators as part of an expected stimulus bill. They have a letter to legislators ready to go here.

The Academy is also arranging for artists to perform online, virtual concerts. Performances will be available soon.

The Academy has stopped almost all travel, and liberalized leave policies for employees who have to deal with illness. All in-person meetings of the Board and committees have been canceled for at least the next month and, where appropriate, been replaced them with phone meetings or videoconferences.